By Celia Strickland, Sweets from the Soul
Cookie stencils are an essential tool for cookie decorators, allowing for precise and beautiful designs with royal icing, airbrushing, and dusting powders. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cookie artist, taking proper care of your stencils ensures they stay in excellent condition for years to come. Here’s a guide on how to properly clean, dry, and store your Sweets from the Soul stencils to keep them in top shape!
Cleaning Your Cookie Stencils
Proper cleaning keeps your stencils free of residue and ready for the next use:
✔ Wash Immediately – Rinse off any royal icing, airbrush color, or edible dust right after use to prevent buildup.
✔ Use Mild Soap & Warm Water – Gently clean stencils with mild dish soap and warm water using your fingers or a soft sponge. Avoid anything too abrasive, as it can damage the delicate cutouts.
✔ No Harsh Scrubbing – Never use dish cloths or sponges, as they can warp or tear the stencil.
Drying Your Stencils Correctly
To prevent warping and water spots:
✔ Pat Dry with a Soft Towel – After rinsing, lay the stencil flat on a soft, lint-free towel and pat dry gently.
✔ Air Dry Completely – Let the stencil air dry fully before storing to prevent mold or warping. Placing them upright on our Sweets from the Soul Stencil Drying Rack can speed up the process.
Storing Your Stencils
Proper storage ensures your stencils remain in perfect condition:
✔ Flat or Upright Storage – Store stencils in a binder with plastic sleeves, a stencil organizer, or a flat storage container to keep them from bending.
✔ Avoid Heat & Humidity – Keep stencils away from direct sunlight, high heat, and humid conditions to prevent warping.
✔ Label for Easy Access – Organize by theme or occasion so you can quickly find the stencil you need for your next project.
By following these simple steps, your cookie stencils will stay clean, crisp, and ready to use every time. Whether you’re decorating for fun or running a cookie business, taking care of your tools is just as important as perfecting your techniques!
Looking for high-quality cookie stencils and cutters? Check out my collection at Sweets from the Soul!