Mistakes To Avoid When Using Stencils To Decorate Your Walls

Negosentro | Mistakes To Avoid When Using Stencils To Decorate Your Walls | So, you have found the stencil that you want to use in your living room and begin using your chosen paint to apply the pattern via a roller.

However, after the first few attempts, it looks undefined and isn’t drying. Why?

It is common for people who are new to using stencils in interior design to become confused when they first use them. And as such, many people may make mistakes that can cause their first attempt at using a stencil to look a bit, well, unprofessional.

Luckily, all is not lost, and this article will guide you through the common mistakes you need to avoid to get a crisp look when you apply stencils to your home.

Not Prepping The Wall

Not preparing the surface properly before stenciling can result in the paint bleeding under the stencil or not adhering properly. Even if you buy a custom stencil from a site like stencilease.com, you will still need to make sure that the wall it is being applied to has been cleaned, sanded, and prepped, or the paint may not adhere correctly. So, be sure that the wall is dry, clean, and has been sanded if the paint that you are placing the stencil over has an eggshell finish or is glossy.

Using The Wrong Paint

Using the wrong type of paint, such as paint that is too thick or not suitable for the surface you are stenciling on, will inevitably result in the stencil looking blurred or blotchy. It can also cause issues with the paint adhering to the surface.

Make sure that you use the right kind of paint with your stencil, and be sure that it will be suitable for the room where the stenciling is occurring. For instance, if the stencil is being placed in an area that may have damp, make sure it is damp-proof.

Not Enough Paint

Not using enough paint on the stencil brush or roller can result in a weak or uneven image.

This can be particularly noticeable if you are using darker colors, such as blues, purples, and even shades like black and grey.

If possible, it may be best to layer the paint or ink to ensure an even finish and a professional look.

Inadequate Cleaning

When you begin using a stencil and want to use it around an entire room, it may need multiple uses.

Depending on the material that it is made from, you will need to make sure that the stencil is cleaned. Not cleaning the stencil between uses can result in paint build-up and difficulty getting a crisp image. It can also result in smudging, and even damage to the stencil long-term, so make sure you wash it!

Not Letting It Dry

Not allowing the paint to dry completely before moving the stencil or adding additional layers of paint can cause smudging and bleeding. This will not look good, especially if you are using a detailed or intricate pattern.

When you apply a layer of paint with a stencil, you will need to make sure the wall or surface it is being applied to is dry. And when you have applied the stencil with the paint, aim to leave it to dry for 24 hours at least.