Brushing Up On Some Knowledge About The Stencil Brush

Stencil art is an age-old tradition that dates back to the early history of the mainland, and even further back to the earliest dynasties of China. It's fascinating how this form has been preserved throughout the centuries. Today, stencil art is as flourishing a field as any. More and more enthusiasts are adopting this passion and discovering the fulfilling nature of the craft.

One of a stencil artist's main tools in this art is a stencil brush. Many claim that if the idea is the heart of the design, and the stencil cutouts are the engine that would make the idea a reality, then the stencil brush is the steering wheel which the artist could use to drive the vehicle.

This tool comes in many sizes. Small ones are for detailed sections of the canvass, where meticulous and precise strokes are needed. Larger ones are for faster painting over a wider space on the said canvass. The shape of the handle is of no moment here, and should only be considered for handling convenience. Rather, it's the size of the bristles that should be of importance. The bristles, after all, are what will eventually control the application of the paint. These bristles, generally, should be short and sturdily bundled together for better command of the paint.

It is highly recommended that you seek out real stencil brushes instead of creating makeshift ones from ordinary type of painting brushes. A stencil brush is specially designed for better control of the paint over a stenciling canvass, as we have previously discussed. It does this by making sure that the paint does not get trapped under the bristles, which would just result in uneven paint applications that would make the piece lose some of this stark splendor. Since the bristles are firmly packed, paint can be managed better, and precision as we all know, is key in stenciling.

It is also highly recommended that you should have different brushes for different paints. This would eliminate the rather tedious task of having to rinse your brush every time you want to apply a different color.

Once you're ready to paint, make sure that your stencil brush is dry. Excessive wetness would just make the paint scatter, and the result can be disastrous. Also, make sure that your bristles do not hold too much paint, as this can result in heavier-than-desired applications.

Simply tap the edge of the brush with paint, then apply the same on the canvass in a consistent stroking pattern, either up and down, or left and right. This is to prevent the accumulation of paint under the bristles which could result in uneven paint applications.

Stenciling can be fun with the right brush at your disposal. Make it a point to invest on the best one for your grip and for stenciling needs in general.