How to Choose a Wallpaper Stencil

Wallpaper stencils are an excellent option for homeowners who enjoy the appearance of wallpaper, but aren't willing to commit to actual wallpaper. Although stenciling an entire room to look like wallpaper is a large job, choosing the right stencil for your taste and skill level will make the project much easier to complete.

Step 1: Online shopping is best for picking a wallpaper stencil if you would like a large variety of options. Stencils are also lightweight, making them inexpensive to ship to your door.

Step 2: Look for actual professional quality wallpaper stencils. They will be made of heavier, durable vinyl or plastic that will withstand the amount of use required to stencil an entire room to look like wallpaper.

Step 3: If possible, look for a stencil that covers a large area. Taping and re-taping the stencil is the most time consuming part of the process: limit the time spent with a stencil that covers at least 3 square feet of area with each use.

Step 4: Pick a stencil with only one part. You'll find that complicated wallpaper stencils have multiple stencils that are layered to create a complicated pattern. Not only will choosing a stencil with multiple parts greatly extend the length of time required to complete the project, they are also difficult for beginners to use. Start with a one part stencil and save more ambitious stencils for later projects.

Step 5: Look for a stencil that will allow you to paint a darker color on a lighter background. Painting light colors on a darker base coat can be done, but will be more difficult and may require touch ups in order to achieve professional results.

Step 6: Choose a pattern with the correct sense of scale for the room. A small, busy pattern is better suited for a small room, while larger repeating stencils are often best saved for larger areas.

Step 7: Buy from a company that offers detailed instructions and support. Some stencil companies recommend using spray adhesive, other companies prefer tape. Receiving detailed instructions will help you achieve good results the first time.