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Vinyl
Can Craft it vinyls be used on crafting or cutting machines?
Yes, the majority of our vinyls are compatible with crafting machines like Silhouette or Cricut but the blade may need to be adjusted for some of our “special effect” vinyls. Our Chequer plate design is unsuitable for cutting machines due to the thickness of the material.
Can Craft it vinyl be used as heat transfer vinyl?
No, our vinyls are not heat transfer – they are all self-adhesive.
What surfaces is Craft it vinyl suitable for?
Craft it vinyl can be applied to any clean, flat, smooth surface such as plastic, glass, wood. It is fully removable and can be repositioned during application. Please note: if applied to paper it may not be removable.
Is Craft it vinyl heat resistant?
The vinyl is heat resistant for short periods up to 75°C.
Can the vinyl be washed?
Craft it vinyls have a waterproof surface so can be wiped clean, however, if water gets underneath the vinyl, the adhesive will start to lift.
Can Craft it vinyl be used outdoors?
No, it is recommended for indoor use only.
Stencils
How should I prep my path or patio?
You will need to jet wash the existing slabs or concrete to get it clean before starting the job. If the surface is dusty, brush away the dust before you start painting. Note: if working outdoors choose a calm, dry day with no wind to avoid dust and dirt being blown onto the wet paint.
What paint(s) should I use for outdoors?
Use a masonry paint (in your chosen colours – base and accent colour) You may need a couple of coats.
Important ! Make sure you read the paint manufacturer’s instructions with regard to temperature for application, cure time and time between coats.
Once painted you MUST use a clear patio & paving seal for protection.
What paint(s) should I use for indoors?
First use a primer then apply a couple of coats of base using a roller. The base coats need to be completely dry before stenciling (it is recommended to wait 24 hours). The stencil paint can be acrylic, latex or chalk paint (read the manufacturer’s guidelines on usage) but the most important part is to seal the paint with a couple of coats of good quality CLEAR water based polyurethane varnish.
How do I make sure the paint won’t come off?
When painting a floor, you need to be aware that there may be some wear and tear, meaning that it may not be as hard wearing as real tiles or patterned lino. However, the key thing is to seal the floor properly with a good quality varnish (for indoors) or a patio & paving seal (for outdoors).
How do I avoid bleeding?
The top tip to prevent bleeding is to ensure you don’t have too much paint on your brush or roller. Do a test on some paper before you begin stenciling to get an idea of how much paint you will need on your roller. Any bleeds can either be painted over or touched up afterwards with a fine paint brush. Note: paths and patios tend to have a textured, bumpy surface therefore you won’t be able to achieve completely clean, crisp lines on this type of surface. It all adds to the character !
How does the pattern match up between stencils?
Each stencil has one full motif within the outer border so on un-tiled surfaces, simply line the stencil up with the area already painted, working in a grid formation. If you are stencilling on tiles, just use the existing tile as your guide.
Is there a way to make the process quicker?
Stenciling is a job for the patient! It can’t be rushed – you need to take your time! It is quicker and easier if you have two stencils to work with so when one is drying you can use the other.
What if I make a mistake?
If the whole motif is ruined just paint over it with your base coat once the stencil paint is dry. You will have to wait for the base coat to completely dry before you try again. If it’s a minor mistake, you may be able to wipe the paint with water or touch up with a fine brush.
