Stencil Artist Profession Guide

This detailed guide is based on real experiences from graffiti artists and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the stencil artist profession. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to improve your skills, here’s everything you need to know.

What Should You Wear?

The best outfit is sports pants or jeans and an anorak-a pullover jacket with a chest pocket. This pocket can easily fit one or two cans of paint. Choose athletic shoes, as you might need to climb or run from the police. Don’t forget gloves for protection and to avoid leaving fingerprints.

Which Paint Is Best?

While some guides recommend KUDO enamel for its low price, higher-quality paint is preferable. Visit a graffiti supply store and pick up a couple of black spray cans for $4-$7 each. Brands like Montana, Arton, or Train are all good options. For example, MTN Hardcore is quiet and has a fine spray cap, making it economical. Ask the store about caps (nozzles): use a thin cap for precision and saving paint, or a fat cap for quick coverage.

When Is the Best Time to Work?

At night, of course-while it’s dark outside. Late at night is best, but always be careful.

Where Should You Place Stencils?

Stencils are usually placed in high-traffic areas. Locations can range from store walls to building ends. The riskier the spot, the higher the pay. For example, stenciling on a bank or government building pays more. Other popular spots include underpasses, busy courtyards, fences along railways, and stations. Choose locations based on your preferences and agreements.

How Do You Apply Stencils? Any Tips?

• Check the area without drawing attention. Look for cameras and people. Watch for cars and foot traffic. Spend 1-2 minutes analyzing the spot.
• If you smoke, use it as a cover-stand, light up, and look casual. If not, pretend to talk on the phone or just act natural.
• Once you start, don’t stop. Never go back to fix or add to a stencil. Finish in one go.
• For photos, it’s best to return during the day to take pictures. Alternatively, take photos immediately if lighting allows.

What If the Police Catch You?

It depends on the situation. If you’re caught in the act, play dumb-say you don’t know anything about the stencil or the website. Sometimes this works. Some officers only care about property damage or “vandalism,” which can result in a fine or a bribe. Carry $50-$200 just in case.

How Should You Take Photos?

Take photos from two angles: one close-up and one from a distance. Also, note the coordinates of the location.

How Much Do You Get Paid?

It varies. Many offer about $1.50 per stencil, which is low. The price depends on the location: a bank wall can pay $100-$200, near a train station about $12, and along the tracks about $3. Payment depends on your negotiation and the quality of your work. Prime spots pay more.

How Many Stencils Should You Do Per Day?

Again, it depends on your agreement. For example, one of our contributors does about 400 stencils per week.

How Do You Make a Stencil?

It’s simple: take a piece of cardboard and cut out your design. There are plenty of creative tutorials online. Wrap the cardboard in tape to make it last longer.

How Long Does One Spray Can Last?

It depends on your skill and the stencil size. Always bring an extra can just in case.

General Tips

• Work calmly and walk at a normal pace. Don’t rush or run to the spot, and don’t panic while working. Don’t look around nervously.
• Once you start, finish. Don’t stop, even if someone yells at you. If it’s the police, run! If it’s just a passerby, ignore them and leave quickly. If someone shouts from a window, don’t worry about it.
• Impress your employer with creativity and by choosing interesting, hard-to-reach spots-these pay more.
• If you’re working on banks or other risky locations, cover your face with a scarf or bandana and wear a hood. After finishing, leave immediately. Plan your escape route in advance-you have about 3-4 minutes before security might arrive.
• Do the most difficult and high-profile spots at the end of your session so you can leave the area right after.
• Use ride-sharing apps or taxis to move quickly, or plan your route so a car is waiting for you at the end.
• Don’t skimp on your phone-get a backup battery if you take photos on the spot.
• Buy nail polish remover for cleaning paint off your skin if needed.
• Plan your locations in advance-don’t act randomly.

Stay safe, be creative, and good luck!