The Secrets to Stenciling with Watercolor

Back in 2021, I made this video that shares several different methods for stenciling with watercolor for a soft look: 

Here are the actionable steps from the video:

1. Gather Your Materials

   • Stencils — I used the Balzer Designs Garden Tile stencil.
   • Watercolor paper.
   • Damp brush (not soaking wet).
   • Watercolors.
   • Paper towels or baby wipes.
   • Spray bottle with water.

2. Basic Technique

   • Lay your stencil on a piece of watercolor paper.
   • Apply watercolors through the stencil:
     • Using your damp brush and watercolors, apply the color through the stencil openings onto the paper.
     • You can mix different colors to create the desired effect.
     • Remember that the drier the brush, the less "roll-under" effect you'll get.

3. Optional: Create a Soft, Dreamy Look!

   • If you want a softer look, spray water over the watercolor to spread and blend the colors.

4. Experiment with Baby Wipes

   • Place the stencil, still covered in watercolor from the previous application, on a new piece of watercolor paper.
   • Use a baby wipe to wipe the stencil, which transfers color and creates a blended effect on the paper.

5. "Cleaning the Stencil" Print

   • Spray your stencil with water.
   • Place it sprayed side down onto a new piece of paper.
   • Use a paper towel or baby wipe to protect your hands while you press and transfer any remaining color onto the new surface.

Items of Note:

1. • Note that the choice of paper affects the final result.
   • Watercolor paper tends to give cleaner details, while other surfaces may produce a more smudged appearance.
   • You can layer colors and effects by repeating the above steps, creating unique and intricate designs.
   • It's not necessary to clean stencils after each use.  Simply store them as they are, and they'll develop character over time.
   • Experiment with different stencil designs, colors, and papers to create your unique artwork.

Practice and experimentation will help you develop your style and discover new stencil techniques. 

And here's a brand new video with a method for crisp clean results, featuring Pixie Spray!

In this video I used the Balzer Designs Handcut Net stencil and QoR Watercolors. 

Here are some take away tips from the video: 

• About Pixie Spray:

  • Pixie Spray is a repositionable spray adhesive designed for stencils.
  • It helps secure stencils in place while you work, preventing paint from seeping underneath.

• Precautions:

  • Be cautious when using Pixie Spray.
  • It emits adhesive droplets, so avoid inhaling it.
  • Spray it in a well-ventilated area and/or wear a mask.
  • Don't spray it where it might create a mess, as it's adhesive.

• Application:

  • Shake the Pixie Spray can well.
  • Hold the can upright about 12 inches away from the stencil.
  • Press the nozzle and apply the adhesive with a sweeping motion.
  • Let it dry for one minute.

• Stencil Placement and Painting:

  • Once the stencil is sprayed and dried, press it onto your project.
  • You can reposition it as needed.
  • The adhesive keeps the stencil in place, allowing you to paint without worrying about bleed-under.

• Peeling Off the Stencil:

  • After painting, carefully peel off the stencil.
  • You'll reveal clean, detailed stenciling without any paint seepage.

• Reuse or Continue:

  • You can reuse the stencil as long as the adhesive remains sticky.
  • Over time, as the adhesive wears away, you may experience some roll-under, but you can reapply Pixie Spray for a fresh hold.

Using Pixie Spray can help you achieve clean and controlled stencil designs in your projects, if that's the outcome you want.

I hope you enjoyed all of these tips and that you'll think about the ways you might mix watercolor and stenciling together!

Thanks for stopping by!