Basic Stencil Cut

So, for the first tutorial I thought it would be best to put up a basic stencil cutting tutorial for those still unsure about the basic process. Keep in mind that this is by no means the only way for you to do this, just the most efficient

way I have found so far.

1. Recon

Generally, the application and use of your stencil will dictate what materials will be most suitable. For example, for indoor work on walls or doors when you have all the time you need, using adhesive contact may be used as it is easy to cut and prevents any 'underspray' from occurring

as it is stuck completely flat against the surface (thus not needing tape or anyone to hold the stencil too). However, for work on the streets when time and speed are all important you will need to cut your stencil out of something more durable, such as a medium weight cardboard which can just be held against the wall and sprayed through quickly. Another good technique is to print out or photocopy your stencil design and have it laminated. This will still be quite easy to cut and they hold their shape surprisingly well.

2. Construction

Once you know where you will be doing your stencil and you have an idea in mind, you need to begin constructing your image either on paper or on the computer. When constructing your image it is important to remember the fundamentals of a basic stencil, you cannot have any enclosed white spaces or 'islands' inside any black areas (because essentially

these black areas are what you will be cutting out).

3. Fortification

Now once you have your image on paper you can either glue it on to some thicker cardboard with spray adhesive to make it more durable, or get your image laminated which will serve the same purpose. What you will also find that after a number of sprays the stencil will hardern as the paint layers dry also strengthening your stencil.

4. Cutting

There are a number of things that can be used to cut out your stencil. Stanley knives, boxcutters, razor blades and scissors can all be used, but in my experience the trusty exacto knife is the most reliable and the best for achieving fine details ). You hold these knives much like