Stenciling 101

Lesson 3: Using Multiple Overlay Stencils

Suggested Reading and Optional Projects

• If you can, first read (or review) pp. 48-61 about the different types of overlay stencils. You may also want to review Chapter 3 On Light and Shadow (pp. 68-73) since the more overlays you use the more a realistic and dimensional effect becomes desirable.

• Read Freeform Stenciling, Chapter 7, pp. 139-149.

• Remember that you do not need to use the types of paint recommended for each project. Any type of paint can be used for any of hard surface project. It's also a good idea to stick for now to the basic stencil brushes until you feel completely at ease with them. We can get to rollers and trowels and sponges later - and in fact will get a brief introduction to some of them in the last lesson.

Optional Project

• Get a multiple overlay stencil from the crafts store. For now, avoid those that feature faux fabric or water as these can be a bit tricky for the beginner. Avoid freeform stencils until you have practiced with traditional multiple overlays.

  You may want to start easy with only two overlays, but really, using three or more is no more difficult as long as you use your registration marks to align each overlay. The only other thing that may be tricky is figuring out exactly what those tiny cut out areas are supposed to be - another good reason for doing a test proof before tacking a permanent surface.

• If your stencil doesn't have outline registration, get a permanent marker and create the outline of the other overlay shapes on each overlay to help you with stencil alignment. This is a good habit to get into with every stencil as it will really help you to figure out what each cut out area is supposed to be before you start painting.

• Get a piece of poster board or cardboard and stencil the first overlay, making sure to first pencil in the registration marks. Be sure to either tape the overlay in place securely or use spray adhesive - it's crucial that your stencil not accidentally move. With multiple overlay stencils, even an experienced stenciler will always make a paper proof first to see how the different elements fit together and where special shading may be unnecessary.

• Don't forget that a single overlay may still have more than one color. If you need to (although you shouldn't have to) mask off any elements that may be too close to those of a different color.

• If it is clear exactly what you are stenciling, add your shading and highlighting now. Practice doing these with a single color, by varying the pressure of your brush. If you want more contrast, swirl in a deeper shade for any shadows, and a white or very pale version of the color for highlights.

• Remove the first stencil carefully and lay down your second overlay, taking care that they line up perfectly. Now continue to stencil, trying to determine the correct colors for each element and paying attention to shadowing and highlighting. Continue until your stencil is complete.

• Take a good look. Is everything aligned properly, with no gaps where they don't belong? Did you get your colors right? Do you need any more shading and highlighting. Go back and see if you can correct any color problems.

• Not happy with the first attempt? That's why we always do a proof first. Now you know the stencil better so go back and try it again. I guarantee that this time you'll like the results.

• Make sure to clean your stencil and brushes.

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