What is the best way to clean Reusable Stencils?

There are a few tips to keep your Reusable Stencils in tiptop shape for future use.

1. The best way to keep the stencils clean is to avoid over-applying paint as you use them.  If you avoid applying a lot of paint all at once it will help not only with the final painted image, but also make cleanup and storage of the stencils easier.
2. Wipe up excess liquid paint as you are painting by using rags or a car-washing
   sponge and a large bucket of water.  Rinse the rag or sponge often and
   change the water periodically.  Don't forget to wring it out after each rinse.  Be
   careful to not wipe the freshly painted surface you are painting.
3. Don't be concerned about a thinnish-coat of paint that lays on the surface of the stencil. Paint that is "puddling" or collecting on the edges of the stencil is more of a concern.  Carefully wipe up the excess paint with some paper towels, if need be.
4. If you have access to a hose and a washing area available, hose off as much of the excess paint as possible.  Only do this once you've moved your stencils away from the painted image.  Don't wash your stencil where the paint would leave unsightly residue on surfaces.
5. Don't let dry paint on the stencil edges concern you.  It is still usable the next time.  If stencil edges have accumulated dried paint, simply pick off the larger, dried pieces. An even coat of paint remaining on the edge of the stencil image is typically not a problem.
6. Paint build-up on the edges of the stencil cutout may be removed by using
   something like a butter knife.  Carefully glide the butter knife or other suitable
   type of tool with just enough pressure along the edge that has paint-build-up, gently scraping along the edge of the stencil. If stencil breaks during this process, stop immediately.  Note that you only need to remove caked-on paint that would clearly affect the finished, painted image - not every surface.  You may also want to perform this task over a drop cloth to catch the scrapings.
7. If using spray paint we sell and in accordance with our application instructions, there should be no significant build up.  It's likely going to be dry before you can clean it. In fact, we've used one of our stencils dozens of times and let the paint build-up on the protective film and after a while, it simply flakes off as you handle the stencil.  Before painting a new surface, remove loose flakes by gently shaking the stencil over plastic sheeting, away from where you are painting, where it can be collected and disposed. The flakes could blow into the area where you are applying fresh paint.

👊 PRO-TIP: The stencil comes with a protective film on both sides.  If the sight of paint staying on the stencil really bothers you, then you can peel off that film and dispose of it, leaving your stencil a tad more visually appealing.  You only
get to remove the protective film once so choose wisely. :)

👊 PRO-TIP: If you plan to paint numerous times, consider chalking out the patterns, remove stencil then paint.