Want to learn how to use mesh stencils to create works of art effortlessly? Your DIY projects are about to get a whole lot easier with these stencils and our step-by-step guide…

How to Use Stencils: Using Mesh Stencils to Create Effortless Works of Art

Why Learn How to Use Mesh Stencils for Your DIY Projects?

Adding a special touch to your DIY projects can be easier than ever with the use of mesh stencils. Whether you're looking for a way to spruce up your home décor or add some flair to apparel, learning how to use stencils is an essential skill.

Mesh stencils, in particular, allow for detailed designs that can't be achieved with other stenciling or painting methods. There are many skills you can gain when learning how to use mesh stencils, such as the ability to make multiple copies of a design onto one project or how to combine different colors of paint on the same design. All these skills can be applied effectively so you can successfully create patterns and designs that will truly stand out. With the right tools and tips, learning how to use mesh stencils opens up a world of creative possibilities for all your DIY projects.

How to Use Stencils: Step-By-Step Guide to Creating Your First Project

• First, Choose the Right Stencils

The A Makers' Studio Mesh Stencils are designed and patented Tri Mesh adhesive stencils that can be cobined with a variety of surfaces to create endlessly customized DIY home décor.

What you'll love:

• Create beautiful stenciled words and imagery for any occasion!
• Use over and over again on almost any surface and with almost any finish, from One Step Paint to ChalkArt and even gilding.
• New and improved design features stronger adhesive, easier cleaning, and simpler transfer between different surfaces.

Grab your favorite stencil designs and start adding artistic elements to your furniture and accents without any drawing or painting skills!

Check out these popular collections of stencils:

• Quote Stencils
• Animal Stencils
• Bible Verse Stencils
• Holiday Stencils
• Pattern Stencils 
• Letter Stencils

• Second, Gather Your Supplies

A Makers' Studio gives you multiple mediums and tools to help bring your vision to life. From Gel Art Ink for fabrics and soft surfaces, to No Bake Ceramic Paint for ceramics and glass, the choices are endless. ChalkArt is removable and an ideal choice when it comes to customizing a variety of non-porous surfaces while Gilding Size helps you add luxurious details with quality gilding leaf. You can also create beautiful detailing on glass with Etching Cream to give your projects a unique touch. With plenty of colors and project surfaces available, you can choose what fits your idea best and get started crafting!

We also offer a variety of brushes and surfaces to choose from. Painting using ordinary tools like the ChalkArt Spreader or Artist Brush can help bring a unique artistry to everyday items such as the pillow cases, stationery, and canvas pouches that we offer. With the right colors and techniques, these surfaces can be transformed into stunning pieces of artwork. Plus, it is quite easy to work with these materials so even those just starting out can create something special without too much difficulty. Experimenting with different colors and techniques means that no two creations need ever be the same and provides an exciting blank canvas for creativity.

• Third, Start Crafting

Once you have chosen your stencil, paint, and tool, it’s time to get to work! Here are your steps to get started:

• Make sure your surface and stencil are completely dry before starting—any moisture will cause the paint to bleed underneath the stencil's edges.
• Place the Mesh Stencil onto your surface and secure it firmly in place by burnishing (rub all over in circles) so there are no gaps or bubbles between the stencil and the surface. Push the stencil very firmly onto the surface around small details especially so all adhesive is properly stuck to the surface. Any sections not properly adhered could possibly bleed. TIP: Add some painter's tape around the edges of your stencil to avoid painting outside the lines and onto the surface where you don't want any paint.
• Use a ChalkArt Spreader, Squeegee, Artist Brush, or Foam Dome Brush dipped in paint and gently smooth over each design, pushing the paint through the mesh, until all areas are filled in properly. Avoid using too much paint as an over abundance of medium will cause bleeding. A minimal amount goes a long way, so start small and add more as needed. Dab or scrape lightly so that the paint goes through the mesh, but you're not forcing too much that could seep underneath the edges of the design. TIP: Work fast to cover your stencil with paint within 5 minutes or the medium will dry in the mesh and ruin the stencil.
• Now for the best part! Once the design is painted and the paint is still wet, gently pull the Mesh Stencil straight up away from the surface at a 90 degree angle and watch your design come to life!
• Be sure to immediately wash the stencil in warm water, rubbing the non adhesive side in circular motions with your fingertips until the mesh is clear of paint (you may also use a sea wool sponge to gently rub out the paint on the non adhesive side of the stencil). All our mediums are designed to pair with Mesh Stencils, but if the paint is not immediately washed out with your fingertips, you may place it in a warm water bath to loosen any paint. If you are not able to immediately wash the stencil, then you may go ahead and place it in a warm water bath until ready to wash (this is the best way to clean stencils if you're pressed for time or need to finish painting elsewhere).

NOTE: Surfaces such as paper, cardboard, wood, and other smooth surfaces will give a crisper transfer than surfaces such as fabrics, canvas, grainy wood, etc. If you're working with a textured surface, we recommend painting a layer of One Step Paint on the surface before applying the stencil design. This will allow for a smoother surface and cleaner design.  

How to Use Mesh Stencils on Different Surfaces: Fabric, Wood, and More

Fabric

Gel Art Ink is a permanent fabric medium that allows crafters of all ages and skill levels to create beautiful designs on any garment or fabric surface. Our patented mesh stencils make it easy to achieve professional-looking results with just a few simple steps (outlined above). To complete your creation, allow the design to dry completely for a few hours before heat setting with an iron set at 250 degrees (no steam!). Use parchment paper to keep the medium from sticking to your iron as you rub continuously for 3-5 minutes. Now you’re ready to enjoy your custom art!

One Step Paint is also an excellent option for fabrics. Just dilute the paint with 15-20% water, mist your fabric, and start painting! Once dry, you may also use a stencil on top of the One Step to add a beautiful design. Finish up with Light Wax to protect. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to transform fabrics with paint!

    

Wood

A Makers' Studio ChalkArt is all about versatility. Use this water-based chalk paste to easily customize your furniture, tabletop decor, glass, and nearly any other non-porous surface. After drying for just 15 minutes, you will have a beautiful piece of lettering or artwork that will leave people wondering, "how did they do it?" Change up your design later by simply cleaning your piece with a wet rag and creating something brand new! Pair with our uniquely detailed (and patented!) mesh decorative stencils to create truly professional designs on almost any surface over and over again!

Final Thoughts on How to Use Stencils

There is no doubt that mesh stencils add a fun and unique element to your DIY projects. Their versatility allows you to get creative in so many different ways, and the results are always stunning. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced hand at art, the results you can achieve with mesh stencils will be sure to impress. With this guide and some practice, soon enough you’ll be enjoying hassle-free crafting with these amazing tools! So don’t wait, try out mesh stencils on your next project and join the ranks of experienced artisans who choose them every time. We guarantee that you won’t regret it; create something that you can enjoy for years to come!

Check out all of the A Makers' Studio Mesh Stencil designs below:

All Mesh Stencils

Want to learn more about crafting with Mesh Stencils and A Makers' Studio products? Check out these helpful articles:

What are Stencils?
How to Paint with Stencils
Best Stencils for Painting
How to Clean Stencils
How to Make Stencil Art