Camo Stencil Instructions
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1. Prep your surface
- Thoroughly clean the surface to be painted with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
- Tape off any accessories or places that you don't want painted with painter's tape, or remove accessories completely.
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2. Paint base coat
- If applying a base coat, paint the surface with your chosen color, then let paint dry and cure for at least 12 hours. This recommendation applies to all subsequent coats of paint.
- Spray paint tends to adhere best when applied according to instructions on the can.
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3. Paint first layer with adhesive camo stencil
- Trim the "bottom" layer of stencil to fit surface, if desired. Each stencil sheet has a label on the back indicating color and placement.
- Once the base coat is dry and cured, carefully apply the "bottom" layer of the stencil to the surface to be painted.
- To apply layers with transfer tape (clear layer/grid on top of stencil): peel off the opaque backing, apply stencil to the surface, then carefully remove the clear layer, leaving the stencil adhered to the surface. Slowly and steadily is the best way to do this.
- Once the stencil is in place, paint a thin, even layer of paint over the surface, then let dry completely. Repeat until layer is opaque, if desired.
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4. Paint subsequent layers
- You may remove or leave previous stencil layers in place, depending on your desired look. Remember that previous stencil layers left in place will keep previous paint layers visible.
- Repeat the previous step with each subsequent layer, working from "bottom" layer to "top" layer.
- Let the paint dry and cure thoroughly between layers. We recommend waiting at least 12 hours between layer application.
- Once complete, slowly and carefully remove any remaining stencil layers to reveal your finished paint job! A needle, razor blade, or tweezers can be helpful with this process when used very carefully, avoiding damage to the paint.
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5. Show it off!
I love featuring customer builds on my Instagram, Threads, and Facebook pages, as well as my YouTube channel and occasional marketing emails.
Feel free to tag me or collaborate with me on a post, and keep an eye out for your paint job to be featured!
You may also send photos to me privately if you prefer to remain anonymous.
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Application Tips
- I draw stencil designs in separate layers, from bottom to top, so they can "stack" when applied in full sheets to form a more accurate pattern. To apply stencils this way - line subsequent layers up with the placement of previous layers during the application process, removing previous layers between coats.
- For a crisp application, only paint in an area with a moderate temperature, low humidity, and as little dust and dirt as possible.
- Apply stencils firmly and use a credit card or cotton swab to smooth out any air bubbles from under the stencil.
- Use of a hair dryer or heat gun can aid in malleability of the stencil for odd shapes/surfaces, but don't overdo it. Excessive heat and/or humidity can cause adhesive residue to stay on your surface or underlying paint to peel.
- Results may vary based on stencil placement and application, and are not guaranteed due to this.