How to Paint Walls with Stencils

Using stencils to paint your walls adds creativity, character and that extra personal touch to any space. Create a collage, border pattern or a mural with using one stencil or a variety of stencils to create your masterpiece. Stencils also can be used with a variety of applications in brush, color or with a variety of ways to apply with sponges. Let your imagination flow as you design and stencil each room. Read on to learn more.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Painter's tape
• Flat paints
• Stencils
• Plate, cup or cardboard to hold paints
• Level
• Stencil brushes or sponge
• Slightly damp cloth

Instructions

1. Start with a clean surface. Wipe down your walls with a damp cloth and allow enough time to dry completely.

2. Prepare walls by repairing major and minor holes or dents. You can use putty to fix problem areas.

3. Create a clean canvas. Paint an initial coat on your wall.

4. Plan out your design. Draw a design or mural for size, location and flow of design with a pencil.

5. Test your design. Simply use a piece of paper to test stencil by tracing area with pencil, amount of paint needed and size of stencil brush.

6. Start at the corner or edge of wall. Securely tape your stencil in a small corner of the wall.

7. Try stippling your design. Dab your brush into the paint with a small but ample amount. Simply tap your brush on the stencil opening.

8. Get creative with your application. Try using a cotton ball, sponge, cloth, plastic sack or a foam rubber. Each application will give your stenciled art a unique and original look.

9. Dab each color to complete your stencil and design.

10. Repeat your stenciled pattern to the desired surface area.

11. Fill a whole wall, stipple a border or simply add accents to any wall surface.

Tips & Warnings

• If your stencil doesn't give you clean lines, you probably have too much paint.

• Make sure you stencil is level so that your pattern continues in a straight line.