Authentic stencilling

Just wondering how the paint over a stencil would have been applied in 1954. I assume aerosol paint didn't exist. Would it have been done with a compressor and spray gun or a brush or roller?

[Richard Farrant]

Originally Posted by Greg Johnson

Just wondering how the paint over a stencil would have been applied in 1954. I assume aerosol paint didn't exist. Would it have been done with a compressor and spray gun or a brush or roller?

Greg,
There was such a thing as a stencil brush, a stubby round end brush with stiff short bristles and you dabbed the paint on.

[Christian Shoebridge]

Greg,i had wondered that as well so i made contact with a vet who had stenciled alot of units back in the day..Richard is correct,they did use a stencil brush as he described..i was told by the old boy to let the paint stand a while b4 applying.this allows it to thicken up,less chance of it running and less layers to apply.

Christian.
52 m38CDN
53 M100
43 WLC

[jdmcm]

A shaving brush does a very similar job

[Jim Burrill]

Try a Michaels or other big box arts and crafts store. They have a full on stencil department. Of course it is mostly for interior decorating, but you can get a wide range of letters in fonts and sizes, and clear sheets to make your own stencils.

[rob love]

Also I would suggest signpainter's paint. It dries quickly and with less runs, and is meant for this kind of work. Here at the museum we use this brand: http://www.1shot.com/One-Shot/index.aspx

[maple_leaf_eh]

Originally Posted by jdmcm

A shaving brush does a very similar job

Agreed. The old painter's advice applies - brush it on, brush it in and brush it out.

[chris vickery]

And for a cleaner edge, make your stencil from correct stencil paper and use some stencil adhesive to help it stay flat. Both available at places like Michaels...