How wide should the stencil border be?

Allow at least 2-3 cm border around the design for paint overspray and tape adhesion. For spray paint stencils, use 4-5 cm borders. For dabbed or brushed paint, 2 cm is often sufficient.

What are registration marks?

Registration marks are small alignment guides cut into the border area. They help you position the stencil accurately, especially for multi-layer stencils. Allow 1-2 cm for registration marks outside the border.

What material should I use for stencils?

Mylar (0.125-0.25 mm) is the most popular for reusable stencils. Acetate works for single use. Adhesive vinyl makes great one-time stencils. For fabric stenciling, use freezer paper or adhesive stencil film.

How do I prevent paint bleeding under the stencil?

Use a very thin coat of adhesive spray on the back. Apply paint with a stippling motion (up and down, not brushing). Use less paint than you think - multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat.

CraftCalcs

Stencil Size Calculator — Template Dimensions

Work out stencil dimensions with border allowance for clean application.

Design Width

Design Height

Border Width

Overspray protection

Registration Mark Space

How We Calculate This

How the Calculation Works

Stencil width = design width + 2 x border width + 2 x registration mark allowance

Stencil height = design height + 2 x border width + 2 x registration mark allowance

The border ensures paint does not overspray onto the surrounding area. Registration marks help with accurate placement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: 2025-02-20

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.