Product Info: Stencils

Our stencils are made from 10 mil Mylar® plastic - - this material is strong but flexible, easy to clean, and recyclable [♳]. We cut our stencils with a professional-grade CO2 laser cutting machine in our Bucerías, Mexico studio.

If washed and stored correctly, our stencils are reusable and will last project after project.

Washing (for water-based, acrylic, or latex paint)

• First, place a mesh strainer into your sink drain so the paint residue doesn't go down your drain.
• Run the stencil under warm water and lightly scrub with a dish brush. The most important areas to focus on are those on the cut edges.
• If the paint has fully dried, soak the stencil in warm soapy water, or a commercial water-based paint cleaner (like Simple Green or Krud Cutter), for at least an hour (best if overnight). A flat container like a cookie tray, a lid from a plastic storage bin, or wrapping it in a plastic bag to soak will work - just make sure the liquid covers the stencil and it lays flat. After, lightly scrub as described above.
• Once the paint is removed, blot the stencil dry, and let it air dry completely.
• Note: Spray adhesive is difficult to remove from a stencil. If your stencil is still tacky after cleaning, use wax or freezer paper as a backing when your store it.
   

Oil Based Paint

• For cleaning, vegetable oil from the supermarket is the safest way to breakdown oil-based  paint.
• Blot the excess paint from your stencil with a rag or paper towel.
• Pour a little oil onto the stencil and work the oil into the paint with your fingers. You might need to do an overnight soak as described above.
• Blot and repeat until there is no more paint.
• Finish the clean-up by washing with Simple Green or soap and water.
  
  

Storage

• Always store stencils flat. Our favorite method is to use a clothing hanger that has clips. Hang in a closet, behind a door, or display them on a wall.
• You can also store stencils under the bed in a portfolio folder or plastic storage bin.