Stencilek

Stencilek, or stencils, are templates used to transfer a pattern onto a surface by applying paint, ink, or another medium through cut-out openings. The stencil masks portions of the surface, while the exposed areas receive the color, creating a repeatable design. Stencilek can be reusable or disposable and come in various sizes and materials, including Mylar or PET plastic, acetate, metal, and cardboard. They may be cut by hand or produced by laser cutting, die-cutting, or waterjet services for precision and consistency.

Applications include arts and crafts, signage, textile design, decorative painting, and street art. They enable rapid, repeatable application of a motif or lettering. Techniques vary: stencilek are held in place with low-tack tape or adhesive, and pigment is applied by brush, sponge, roller, or spray. To minimize bleed, artists often work from lighter to darker colors, and may use multiple passes or underlayers. Reusable stencils can be cleaned and stored, while disposable ones are designed for single use.

Historical use of stencilek dates to ancient cultures, with evidence in decorative painting and inscriptions. In modern periods, stenciling became common in signage and mass production, then gained prominence in contemporary art and street art, where artists use cut-out designs to achieve sharp edges and rapid production. The term stencilek can also refer to a broader family of templates used in crafts and manufacturing.