Step 1. Make sure the area you plan to stencil is clean and free of debris. Rough wood will be problematic, a smooth surface is your friend. Apply a light coat of aerosol spray adhesive to the back of your stencil, place the stencil then use a credit card or straight edge to secure all areas of the spencil.

Step 2. Apply a light coat of Mod Podge glue to prevent the paint from bleeding under the stencil. I use a wedge sponge to apply the glue this allows me to better apply the glue along the edges of the stencil. Clean the sponge with water to later apply the paint.

Step 3. After the glue has set-up, maybe 10 minutes. Begin using the sponge to apply the paint, before going to the stencil first pat the sponge on a plate or towel to spread the paint around on the sponge this will prevent blogs of paint from being applied to the stencil.

Step 4. Allow about 7 to 10 minutes for the paint to set up, then carefully peel off the stencil. I have found that not allowing the paint to dry prevents the paint from staying on the stencil instead of the object being painted.

Step 5. Cleanup is a simple process but handle the stencil with care. I have found placing the stencil on a flat surface and running water while lightly brushing the stencil with a toothbrush does a good job cleaning without bending the stencil.