A sandblasting stencil (also known as sandblast resist) is used to control the sandblasting to create various shapes, letters and images on a desired surface. These stencils are useful for artistic as well as commercial sandblasting operations.

If you want to use sandblasting stencils for your operations, you will need to understand various technical terms relating to characteristics and types of sandblasting stencils. This guide will explain key terms relating to sandblasting stencils, such as Peel 'N' Etch stencils, stencil masks, plotter cutter and blasting pressure.

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Peel 'N' Etch stencils

Peel 'N' Etch stencils are pre-cut and self-adhesive stencils that are useful for various applications, including sandblasting operations.

I recommend: For more information about these stencils, browse through All Stained Glass’ website.

Stencil adhesive sprays

A stencil adhesive spray is used to affix the stencil to any surface with a temporary bond.

I recommend: For more information about stencil adhesive spray, read through the description at Decorating Direct Limited, a supplier of decorative products.

Stencil masks

Stencil masks are one-time masks with an adhesive coating. After the sandblasting operation, these masks can be simply peeled away from the surface.

I recommend: Express Engraving Etc., a provider of laser engraving, imprinting and plating services, publishes information regarding stencil masks.

Plotter cutter (also known as vinyl sign cutter)

A plotter cutter is an electronic device that accurately cuts off various designs (or texts) from materials to be used as masks or stencil resists for various sandblast projects.

I recommend: Sandcarver, a knowledge resource, provides information about plotter cutters.

Blasting pressure

For the sandblasting operation, blasting pressure indicates the pressure applied on the abrasive media at its nozzle. For proper results, the sandblasting stencil should be able to withstand the blasting pressure.

I recommend: Hyers' Sandblasting, a sandblasting service provider, offers a glossary of terms relating to the sandblasting operations.

Sandblasting abrasives

Sandblasting abrasives are the abrasives used for abrasive or bead blasting operations. These abrasives remove undesired material from the component surface exposed to the pressurized flow of abrasives. Before selecting sandblasting stencils, you must be aware of the sandblasting abrasives you will use.

I recommend: Red Hill Supply, a supplier of value automotive tools, provides detailed information about sandblasting abrasives.

Specific gravity

Specific gravity of a sandblasting abrasive is the ratio of its density with the density of pure water at standard pressure and temperature conditions. For designing a sandblasting stencil, you must know the specific gravity of the sandblasting abrasive that you will use.

I recommend: For the definition of this term, you can read through the glossary at ElastoTech SouthWest.

Etching stencils are highly useful for home and office needs. Use stencils for sandblasting to personalize items, create signs, and make permanent safety labels for hazardous items. Etching stencils can also be used to create decorative designs on any glass surface including mirrors, windows and vases.

You have a choice of options available when it comes to sandblast templates. Have a custom stencil made with your logo or other design, create your own template using sandblasting stencil supplies, or purchase kits of pre-cut stencils. Use any of these sandblast templates for etching or wood, glass or concrete.

1. Get your company logo or other design custom made by sandblasting stencil suppliers.

2. Explore options for cutting your own sandblasting stencils and using supplies to ensure accuracy of design.

3. Purchase kits of etching stencils that suit your design needs.

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Design custom cut sandblasting stencils

Have stencils custom cut to meet the specific needs of your business. Whether you are looking to have a sandblast stencil made of your company logo or needing a specific design, custom stencils are the way to go.

I recommend: You can work with representatives at DCI to have your design made into a stencil for sandblasting. Nu-Crete Designs also offers custom stencil services to make sandblasting stencils for concrete and glass.

Use sandblast vinyl and distortion products for sandblast stencils

You can use sandblast vinyl for making handmade templates for glass and wood. Purchase sandblast stencil products to protect stone and to prevent distortion to logo, letter and designs when using sand blast templates.

I recommend: Explore Etch World for purchasing Resist for making your own sandblast template. They also offer a much less expensive option with their Con-Tact products. Also look for CD stencil books, at Etch World, that are compatible with most word processing programs. 3M is also good for their stencil products that provide distortion prevention.

Look for kits of etching stencils in themed packages

Pre-cut etching stencils are a great option when you are using stencils for decorative purposes. Most kits are made from self adhesive vinyl and each stencil can be used a number of times. The vinyl is strong enough to resist the sandblaster so the only place you will have etching is the design area.

I recommend: Etch Master for their pre-cut stencil packs. Choose from kits that include holidays, animals, plants and many other options. Armour Products sells kits that have reusable stencils. Armour offers a wide range of kit themes including sandblasting letter stencils.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Try cutting your own design on self adhesive Resist to make your own re-usable etching stencils. Use hand designed art or put an illustrated design under clear Con-Tact paper and trace it with a pen, pencil or carbon paper.