A stencil is a template used to draw or paint identical letters, numbers, symbols, shapes, or patterns every time it is used. Stencils are formed by removing sections from template material in the form of text or an image. This creates what is essentially a physical negative. The template can then be used to create impressions of the stenciled image, by applying pigment on the surface of the template and through the removed sections, leaving a reproduction of the stencil on the underlying surface. Stencils can be made with one or many colour layers using different techniques, with most stencils designed to be applied as solid colours.

Aerosol stencils have many practical applications and the stencil concept is used frequently in industrial, commercial, artistic, residential and recreational settings, as well as by the military, government and infrastructure management. A template is used to create an outline for the image. Stencils templates can be made from any material which will hold its form, ranging from plastic sheets, metals And Vinyl.