How to Stencil on Wood: Secrets to getting perfect results every time

[@elizabethetienne1595]

LOVE videos that cut to the chase no silly music or slow intros. You’re the BEST!

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad you found it helpful!!

[@peytonoconnell9336]

This is the best most easiest video I have watched for stenciling and I cant wait to try it out Thank you so much and wish me luck!

[@LovelyEtc]

So glad to hear that!

[@100mfp]

That was the best instruction I've ever seen for stenciling. Thank you so much! I've had a project idea for many years that I may now actually try to accomplish without such fear of failure.

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you! I hope your project turns out just like you've imagined!

[@gailwestgate9234]

@@LovelyEtc 11

[@dorisheese7426]

Thank you for all the tips! I'm a first time stenciler, so this video was very helpful!

[@LovelyEtc]

You’re welcome! I’m so glad it was helpful. Thanks for visiting!

[@1SueG]

Very clear instructions. I've watched a number of the instructional videos for stenciling and this was, by far, the clearest and easiest to follow. Thank you

[@LovelyEtc]

I love hearing that. Thank you!

[@dianetran6878]

Very useful information for beginners. Thanks a bunch!

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MusiqTruth]

Definitely picked up a handful of tips. Thank you for setting me up for success on this coffee table I'm gifting!

[@LovelyEtc]

So glad it helped!

[@marydodge9844]

I was getting ready to try my hand and stenciling a pattern on a piece of flea market furniture I was using to experiment with - something I wouldn't mind "ruining" if it went badly. So I watched several KZbin videos about stenciling, how to avoid the paint leaking under the stencil, etc., but yours was the ONLY one I saw that mentioned using the makeup sponges (which amazingly enough I happened to have on hand!). Oh. My. God. That worked SO well!! I'd experimented on a piece of scrap wood with one of the those little sponge daubers and didn't care for that, but didn't really want to invest in a stenciling brush just yet either. So glad I didn't because the makeup sponges worked amazingly well. Thank you so much for sharing your tricks!

[@d732003]

I have had so much trouble with stenciling, until I saw your video. The makeup wedge has made all of the difference. Thank you so much.

[@stevegenest8157]

First timer here. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!☺️

[@LovelyEtc]

You're so welcome!

[@einabq]

Nice video! Great tips. Love the toothpick idea. Even small brushes tent to fray, spread a bit. Also, cutting board as canvas = genius! Thanks from ABQ

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you!

[@wbell539]

Great advice! I especially like what you told us about how to make a stencil not look like a stencil! Thank you.

[@LovelyEtc]

So glad you found it helpful.

[@jenniferjackson9642]

What wonderful, detailed instructions! Thank you. I learned a lot!❤️

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad it helped!

[@sharonhill3530]

This has made my life so much easier. Your instructions were so easy to follow

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad it helped!

[@edwardlunn6975]

Great video Carey! Thanks for the tips !😃

[@LovelyEtc]

You're welcome. I am glad it was helpful.

[@DeeptaR]

Awesome video with valuable tips &tricks! That was beautiful stenciling 😊

[@LovelyEtc]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@tamimorgan8903]

I have looked at many but you have helped me the best that is inexpensive and that works the best. /thanks!

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad to help!

[@Kim-rn6yq]

Thank youfor your video! It was awesome

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@melaniewaters5388]

Thank you for this video. How do you remove the stickiness from the wood afterwards since you're using the adhesive spray?

[@bernitacadman1216]

Thank you. My first time stenciling.

[@LovelyEtc]

Good luck! Stenciling is such a quick way to make great stuff!

[@tamikapollard991]

Best instructions ever!!! Question though can i use any multipurpose spray adhesive. I have lots of the Elmer's multipurpose spay adhesive

[@LovelyEtc]

It has to be repositionable. That means it stays tacky for awhile so you can remove the stencil without it leaving a reside or peeling off the finish of whatever you are stenciling. You can usually find a couple of options at stores like Michaels as well as one Amazon. Two I like are Stencil Ease Spray Adhesive - amzn.to/3voF2Py and Aleene's repositionable spray adhesive - amzn.to/3peCjqT

[@tabithamackenzie2172]

The make-up sponge idea... SUPERB. I've struggled with the painting (even with mod podge) bleeding. I used my cricut and stencil vinyl... So much better with the sponge. THANK YOU

[@LovelyEtc]

I am so glad it helped! The makeup sponge really does make a huge difference.

[@aok2727]

Such a clear explanation, thank you

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@julieannalbuzbeba253]

I just want to say thank you SO MUCH for the tip on using the makeup sponges! It was a total game changer!! When I first started stenciling I bought the special stenciling brushes, the sponge stampers....I just couldn't get it to work. Even with the spray adhesive...which is another game changer in itself! The makeup sponges are in a league of their own! They worked amazing and so much cheaper than the other brushes. Thank you so much for the tips!

[@sandyblakeman6081]

Thank you! New to stenciling here and this makes it so much clearer for me!

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad it helped!

[@maureenf.566]

Great video, thanks for the tips. Do you need to let the paint dry before removing the stencil?

[@pamgildehaus8433]

I wondered that too do you peel as soon as your done or do you let paint dry

[@kengrubb]

Thank you for this. I have a kid's bathroom stool with stenciled letters that were faded and chipped and I was struggling with how to preserve or restore them. I started carved and Dremeling thinking I'd fill the letters with colored epoxy. It's a beast to get clean lines. I have to hunt down some 1/2 inch and 3/8 inch stencils, tracing paper to make a guide on letter placement, them follow your method and redo the letters.

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad you found my tutorial. Yes, it can definitely be tough get clean lines. I have been using this process for years and have been very happy with the results.

[@katiegodinho2275]

The toothpick trick was great. I honestly never would have thought to close the gaps on a stencil lol. Looks awesome!

[@katiegodinho2275]

The sticky spray doesn't leave the wood sticky?

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you! And no, as long as you use repositionable spray adhesive, I haven't had any problems with it making the wood sticky.

[@cadoo5591]

The makeup sponge technique is genious! Who woulda thunk? AND the Mod Podge idea, fabulous! Thanks for posting! 🥰

[@lindatony9792]

Very nice tips Thank You For Sharing❤️❤️

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad they helped!

[@Martha-tb8ok]

What a great tutorial! Now I’m prepared to start stenciling.

[@LovelyEtc]

Have fun!

[@joanmacleod1362]

This video was so helpful. Thank you so much😊

[@ChrisThon]

That toothbrush and modpodge trick is awesome! 👏

[@LovelyEtc]

Yes, it helps so much!

[@kriswilliamson1647]

Love the video. If I wanted to use vinyl, what kind of vinyl and do I spray the vinyl?

[@sandiburgess5902]

Good instruction. Do you spray after stenciling with a sealer?

[@yvonnekelley9465]

Wonderful tutorial!! ❤

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you! 😊

[@heather92nicole]

Thanks for the tips! Would you wait for the mod podge to dry before putting the stencil down?

[@LovelyEtc]

Great question. When using the mod podge, put the stencil in place, paint over the stencil with mod podge to seal in the edges. Then keep the stencil in place and go over it with paint. I hope that makes it clearer!

[@janessahazard9046]

Yes let it dry first

[@lisamarsha7521]

Great tutorial. I'm getting ready to do my first stencil and this is so helpful!

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad it was helpful! Have fun!!

[@shericreates]

Great tip for the makeup sponges. I bought some for my regular painting at the dollar store. I also heard that if you stencil first with the same color as your background, in this case the wood, the bleed through would match the wood and not be as noticeable. Thanks!

[@LovelyEtc]

Yes, that is a great tip too! I don't usually use it on bare wood because it can be hard to match the color, but do it on painted surfaces a lot!

[@krystal6612]

Thank u this is the best video I've watched for stenciling!I'm also a perfection-ist! I'm a new subscriber so I am happy I found your channel!

[@hellena1963]

Thanks for your tips. Love the sponge idea!!!

[@peggyparks8786]

Great video!!! Excellent instructions and easy to follow!! 5 STARS!!

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad it was helpful!

[@karleyperkins3968]

I'm so grateful for this video

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you! That is great to hear!

[@dianatighe345]

Thank you so much for the tips! Can’t wait to try this again and see the results!

[@LovelyEtc]

Good luck!!

[@vanessajones9452]

Great tutorial. I learned alot of neat tricks👏

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad!

[@donnacarey4894]

Thank you so much. I am very crafty but could not do a stencil without paint seepage for nothing. Like the make up sponge and the spray adhesive. Heard about the mod podge but have not used that yet. Really thanks for this tutorial.

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad I could help!

[@karentuffs4266]

Thank you for sharing.

[@LovelyEtc]

You're welcome!

[@rhondasquires7770]

Good job! Very informative. I’ve heard some wax the surface before applying paint is this ok to do?

[@LovelyEtc]

Thanks! Personally I probably wouldn't because most paints don't stick to wax well. But if you want to wax first and then stencil with a good chalk paint, it would probably work.

[@kristincofrancisco]

Do you have to use specific wood stencils the stencil a wood dresser or can you use a regular stencil

[@LovelyEtc]

It's more about the paint that you use. You don't have to use wood stencils. Just follow the steps shown so you don't have any issues with the finish. Good luck!

[@leeannarguien2747]

Hi. I am new to crafting. This helps. I bought the spray. I have wood slice ornaments. Do I just let the adhesive dry? Does it stay sticky?

[@LovelyEtc]

Spray the adhesive on the stencil and then it is ready to use immediately. Put it in place on your wood slices and stencil. As soon as you are done stenciling remove the stencil. There will be adhesive residue on your stencil that you can clean off when you are done but there shouldn't be residue on the wood. Good luck!

[@yeseniabeltran3037]

Thank you so much! I’m trying to fix an error.. this is definitely going to help, for the next project to come out better

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm glad I could help - good luck on your next project!

[@raineycharles9]

Awesome video! Leaned some new tips! Absolutely beautiful and the stencil wasn't bad either!😉

[@LovelyEtc]

Haha, thanks. Glad it helped!

[@raineycharles9]

@@LovelyEtc You're welcome my dear. 🥰

[@karashea7823]

HALLELUJAH!! I finally now know what I've been doing wrong THANK YOU!!!

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad I could help!

[@Donna61111]

Thank you for your time and tips!

[@LovelyEtc]

My pleasure!

[@Karen-ci5eu]

Great video and loved the make-up sponges tip! I just splashed out £10 on a stippling brush - wished I'd seen your video first!

[@LovelyEtc]

Yes, the sponges work so well! But hopefully your brush will work well for you too.

[@Signarts66]

Nice job

[@LovelyEtc]

Thanks!

[@kalanskean195]

What brand of repositional adhesive do you recommend

[@hdub321]

Can you use the adhesive spray if you are planning to stencil on a surface that is already painted? I have a small dining table that is painted black, I would like to add a charcoal gray stencil design to the top. I feel the adhesive spray would be the best for coverage and minimize/eliminate bleed. Thank you!

[@LovelyEtc]

The adhesive spray should still work fine, but always read the instructions for your specific type of paint.

[@wickedcordz119]

I loved your video. How do you apply the mod podge when you use it?

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you! If you use modpodge, just put your stencil in place and then brush a thin layer of mod podge over the stencil. You want to be sure to brush the mod podge over everywhere you will be painting. That seals the tiny gaps between the stencil and then wood. Let the mod podge dry, leaving the stencil in place, and then paint as usual.

[@MrLiltooch]

These tips have really helped me. Thank you so much.

[@LovelyEtc]

I'm so glad!

[@lunarosesanchez-betancis6368]

Ty so much! Perfect tips.

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@tawanascruggs6069]

Great tutorial. Wow who knew about using a toothpick to fill in the spaces👍🏽.

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@2frans]

How can I clean the glue residue from my painted sign? Your video is excellent! Thank you!

[@LovelyEtc]

Thanks! If there is glue residue on your sign, I would let the paint fully dry for several days first and then test goo gone in a small section to make sure it doesn't disturb the paint. Goo gone works great for removing any adhesive from the stencil too. And make sure the spray adhesive you use is repositionable because it shouldn't leave much residue on the sign.

[@funkfunkable]

Great instructional video!

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you!

[@readingisfreedom9756]

Thank You great instructions!

[@loidaperez3174]

Hi, great video! Do I have to stain the wood first before doing the stencils? If yes, what do you recommend? TIA

[@LovelyEtc]

You don't have to stain the wood. You can stencil over bare wood or wood that is already finished. But if you want to stain it first, Minwax's oil-penetrating stains work well. You can buy small cans to use for small projects. My favorite medium brown shade is special walnut. Make sure the stain has fully dried before stenciling over it. You may also want to use a polyurethane sealer to seal the stain before stenciling but for small decor items you can probably get away with skipping the sealer.

[@loidaperez3174]

@@LovelyEtc great thanks😊

[@crystaldavis7412]

@@LovelyEtc do you use oil base paints to stencil?

[@Rainbow_1981]

Great video..thanks so much. I’m planning to use stencil on gold leaf...would you think I can use the same techniques..thx

[@LovelyEtc]

I haven't ever tried it with gold leaf so I can't say for sure, but it's worth a shot!

[@diannamccormack9977]

Love ur soothing voice and u are beautiful. Thanks u for ur tips. Did u day paint modpodge over ur stencil or under?

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you so much, you are so sweet! You don't have to use mod podge - I skipped it. But if you are going to use it, paint it over the stencil. It will seal the stencil to the wood to keep paint from slipping under the stencil. Then when you are finished, the stencil should peel away easily without messing up the paint.

[@diannamccormack9977]

@@dropndeal You are right, I feel the same way about Xmas and Christmas. I’m 73 and I’m constantly looking for shortcuts, so that would be my excuse if I needed one. Tell ur friend I’m sorry.

[@JK-jl1bf]

Thanks for the tips!!!

[@LovelyEtc]

Happy to help!

[@AngelaStClair-wu4vk]

Great video. I have a question if my wood is painted is that spray adhesive going to bring my paint up with it when removing the stencil?

[@LovelyEtc]

It could, especially if the wood was painted pretty recently. It might be safer to use painter's tape in that situation.

[@michaelpoyntz774]

Do you spray or brush on a clear coat sealer after stencil is dry? And to be clear: you apply the Mod Podge onto the wood before you apply the stencil that has been spayed with the contact adhesive?

[@user-xd5so5qh7j]

So, just to understand, if we put the mod podge on first, then we would be painting over the mod podge instead of the wood, correct? I'm not sure I quite understand. Thank you!

[@LovelyEtc]

Hi. After putting your stencil in place, but before stenciling, you can paint a thin layer of Mod Podge over the top of the stencil. This helps keep the stencil in place and eliminate any leaking. Then you go ahead and paint. Hope this helps!

[@user-xd5so5qh7j]

@@LovelyEtc Thanks! Sorry, but just one more clarification, please . . . When you paint the thin layer of Mod Podge over the top of the stencil, it's as though you are just outlining the letters on the top edge, right? You don't want any of the Mod Podge to actually touch the wood that you are eventually going to be stenciling with paint, right? I guess my question is, if you're just painting a thin layer of Mod Podge over the top of the stencil, I don't see how it makes a difference with the stenciling that is going to be coming up, or what happens underneath the stencil. Thanks!

[@kristencamp9347]

Thank you. This is exactly what I needed. :)

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad it was helpful!

[@norinemueller4588]

Awesome video thank you

[@LovelyEtc]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@deegazzo]

Want to try this, only one question, do you let the paint dry before taking off the stencil?

[@LovelyEtc]

You can remove the stencil right away, just carefully remove it so you aren't smudging the paint. Hope that helps!

[@julieannalbuzbeba253]

I am stencing on sanded wood that has been painted background color. Can I still use the spray adhesive on my stencil and if so will it leave adhesive on the background paint when I remove the stencil??

[@lifeoftim5388]

I LOVE THE TOOTHPIC IDEA

[@roseoftheenglish9127]

Thanks for this video! Do you know if mod podge is safe to use for baby furniture? X

[@LovelyEtc]

Mod podge is non-toxic and water-based and can be used on toys, but they say on their website not to use it on things teething babies will put in their mouths.

[@ajakson11]

great video

[@LovelyEtc]

Thanks!

[@susies1955]

Where and when do you use the mod podge? Is it over the stencil? Is it in place of the repositioning spray? Is it on the wood when done and completely dry? Thanks. I tried stenciling this morning, and it was a mess.

[@LovelyEtc]

You want to cover the piece with mod podge as a sealer. It will protect it. Hope that helps.

[@jspyrogram]

Thanks!!

[@dpr4820]

Do you have to wait for the mod podge to dry or do you paint on it while it's still wet? Also, do you put the stencil down and then put the MP over the stencil or the other way around? Thanks!

[@LovelyEtc]

Put the stencil down and mod podge over it. Let it dry and then paint!

[@aleyasanimals1338]

@@LovelyEtc can you use glossy modge podge?

[@jasmineweeks1785]

I love this video❤️❤️

[@LovelyEtc]

thank you!

[@rkenney9119]

Great tips. How do you get the tacky stuff that is on the wood when you lift the stencil?

[@LovelyEtc]

I've never had tacky stuff left behind on the wood. Make sure you are using repositionable adhesive and try to keep it on the wood for only a few minutes. That should keep it from leaving behind a residue. But if for some reason, there is a bit of residue, try very lightly wiping it with alcohol or an adhesive remover. Just be careful if your wood is finished because it could remove the finish.

[@katdrummer04]

perfect thank you

[@LovelyEtc]

You're welcome!

[@odettej2551]

Thank you so much 😊

[@Quiltycrazy]

Love your video, also subscribed!

[@LovelyEtc]

Thank you so much!

[@JenniferBlevins-xx7yw]

Do you have to let the modge podge dry before painting?

[@LovelyEtc]

It's best to let it dry before painting.

[@dyannelerew5996]

How do you get the repositional glue off your project

[@robertpatterson7042]

Thanks so much!

[@eltonroberts8817]

Very cool...silly question 🤔 so if you used adhesive spray how did stencil come off so nicely?.....great video

[@LovelyEtc]

Thanks! If you use repositionable spray adhesive, it doesn't stick the stencil down permanently. It just gets tacky enough to stay in place and then as long as you remove it before too much time has passed, it pulls away easily.

[@ireneguerra6143]

Thanks for the video. This may be a dumb question, but does acrylic paint wash off the wood once it's dry? Does it have to be sealed? I'd like to make an outdoor sign. TIA

[@LovelyEtc]

Not a dumb question! Acrylic paint won't wash off once it is dry. But if you are planning to use this outside, using a sealer might be a good idea to make it last longer. The sealer will help protect the paint from fading over time from sun and rain.

[@indianaajoness]

Did you put the spray adhesive on back and front of stencil?

[@LovelyEtc]

Spray it on the back of the stencil - it will hold it in place on the wood.

[@jennifersedo8241]

Love the toothpick trick.... thanks

[@LovelyEtc]

It makes such a big difference!

[@kenjackman2869]

How do you clean the adhesive off the board when you are finished?

[@donnastandley8056]

Question: I just sponge painted stencils on my stained wood. This will be going outside, so what can I put over the paint to keep the letters from peeling? Mod podge, maybe?

[@LovelyEtc]

You definitely want to put a clear sealer or topcoat. I put together this article with the best topcoats and sealers. www.lovelyetc.com/the-best-and-worst-sealers-for-painted-furniture/

[@nellielee2915]

You mention about using the mod podge, but I'm not clear on how you said apply the mod podge on the stencil. And thanks again for mant great tips

[@LovelyEtc]

If you use mod podge, just put your stencil in place on the wood and brush a coat of mod podge over the stencil - you want to add the mod podge over the entire design. The mod podge will help seal the edges of the stencil to the surface you are stenciling. And since it is clear, it won't show. Once the mod podge dries, paint your stencil as normal. Then remove the stencil and that's it!

[@Hellibobs31]

Can I ask a question? When do you use the Mod Podge, before or after you use the paint. Sorry, it wasn't clear to me!

[@CM-dc4du]

After you finished your project. What top coat did you use? I have been using Delta Satin Finish and Hello Hobby Varnishes Matte. I’ve noticed when I’m applying the top coat on wood I get air bubbles and white streaks. Using Chalk paint and/or cheap acrylic 2oz. bottles. How can you prevent this for happening? Do have a tutorial on how to apply a top coat? Thank you.

[@DEG1985]

Great video, also subscribed!

[@LovelyEtc]

Awesome, thank you!