The earliest known stencil-like designs first appeared in Western China at the caves of the Thousand Buddhas. This decorative paint technique is created by brushing paint over a cutout pattern affixed to a substrate. The cutout pattern is moved evenly across the surface (stepped) to form a "repeat" pattern. Stencil designs are often accompanied by striping when a border pattern is desired. The popularity of stenciling grew in the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe and North America and is often a component of preservation and restoration in buildings of those periods.

In buildings where the original patterns have been painted over, paint studies, analysis, and exposures are needed to uncover the original design(s) and to determine the periods in which those designs were executed. We will discuss this process in more detail in future Chronicles.

Whether the stencil patterns are determined to be freeform or geometric in design, the patterning process of successful designs rely on careful mathematical calculations and scaling. The professional decorator must measure the distance to be covered and prepare the patterns to make sure that the desired effect is achieved at corners, windows, and moldings, as well as top to bottom, in the case of an overall theme.

Today, patterns are traced onto a stiff, paint resistant material like Mylar and carefully cut out with a sharp blade. Stencil patterns can be simple, one-color designs, or complex designs achieved with multiple layers and colors. The effect can be flat, two-dimensional or trompe l'oeil, but the idea of stenciling is that the pattern is repeatable.

Stenciling, like other decorative finishes, has become a popular technique for home decoration. Precut stencils, brushes, tools, and color charts are all bundled in kits to make this an easy homeowner craft. But in order to get professional looking results, the painter must plan the space. Measure and mark lines before painting - crooked walls and slanted floors can be deceiving. Decide before starting how to handle situations like corners or windows. Decide where to start and how to work progressively through the project.

By paying attention to these details and spending a little time practicing with the brushes, the results will definitely be worth the effort.

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