STENCILING: Put stencil in place and hold with your left hand. Hold brush in right hand. (If you are left handed, reverse instructions.) Tape edges of stencil to surface if you wish, but each opening must also be held down as you stencil through it. The edge of each opening must be flat on the surface to achieve a clean line.

Stroke lightly, in one direction per stroke. Continue brush stroking each area until the desired depth of color is reached.

Always stroke inward toward the imagined center point of a stencil opening. Never stroke outward or you will get paint under the stencil and have a messy edge.

For a large opening, try leaving the center of it lighter than the edges. This can give an attractive effect. You can then fill it in if you don't like the effect.

For a long, narrow opening, stroke inward from one end to the center, and then inward from the other end to the center.

For small openings, hold the brush in a closed fist in a perpendicular direction and stencil in a circular motion, using some pressure.

Always let paint dry completely before adding another layer. Match registration marks carefully.

Wipe wet paint from stencils with clean cloth as you are working. Thoroughly clean and dry brushes when you are finished.