Create Playground Fun With Zig Zag Playground Stencils: A Full Tutorial

Playground markings don’t have to be complicated to make a big impact. With Zig Zag Playground Stencils from Stencil Ease, you can easily add movement, coordination challenges, and visual interest to playgrounds, blacktops, and outdoor play areas—using simple, repeatable shapes that invite kids to jump, hop, balance, and follow patterns.

In this tutorial, we’ll walk through how to plan, stencil, and use zig zag markings to create fun, functional play spaces for schools, parks, and community playgrounds.

Important note about stencil materials:

These stencils are available in two materials:

• Thin Mylar (lighter, flexible)
• Thicker LLDPE (extra-durable, reusable)

We recommend spray as being much easier. If you want to roll we recommend using a 4 or 6 inch roller. 

These instructions work for both materials.

What You’ll Need

For All Materials

• Zig Zag Playground Stencils. 
• Pavement-safe outdoor paint (latex, acrylic, or marking paint)
• Measuring tape or chalk line
• Painter’s tape and weighted items like bricks
• Surface broom or blower

For 14 mil Mylar (Roll-On Application)

• Paint tray
• Dense foam or short-nap roller (4" or 6")

For 60 mil or 125 mil LLDPE (Spray-Only Application)

• Spray marking paint or
• Striping/wand-style spray applicator
• Optional: overspray shields, drop cloths, or cardboard

Step 1: Plan Your Zig Zag Layout

Before painting, take time to decide how your zig zag pattern will flow across the space. Zig Zag Playground Stencils are versatile and can be arranged in multiple ways depending on the age group and activity goals.

Popular layout ideas include:

• Straight zig zag paths for jumping or hopping challenges
• Curved or winding paths to guide movement across a larger play area
• Parallel zig zags for side-by-side activities or group games
• Integrated pathways that connect other playground markings or fitness stations

Spacing and direction can be adjusted to create easier or more challenging movement patterns, making zig zags ideal for inclusive play.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Proper prep ensures your stencil design looks sharp and lasts longer.

1. Check the surface texture. Smooth, clean concrete or asphalt works best. Avoid applying on cracked, uneven, or damp surfaces. For the best results, paint on recently resealed asphalt. A fresh sealcoat provides a smooth, uniform surface that helps paint adhere and appear vibrant!
2. Make Sure the Area is Clean. Sweep or power-wash the pavement to remove dirt, dust, or debris.
3. Make Sure the Area is Dry. Allow it to dry completely before painting.
4. Measure and Mark your placement. Use chalk to outline where your overall design will go — remember, the full design is approximately 9' 6" tall.

✅ Pro Tip: If resealing isn’t possible, prime the area using black traffic paint to create a clean, even base.

Step 3: Secure, then Paint!  

• Lay the stencil sheet down and secure corners and edges with painters tape.
• We also suggest weighing down areas with a weighted object like bricks for extra security!
• Ensure the stencil lies flat — this prevents paint bleed underneath.

Step 4A: 14 mil Mylar Roller Application 

The 14 mil material is flexible and lightweight—perfect for roll-on applications.

1. Load Your Roller Properly

Dip just the tip of the roller into the paint and roll off excess on the tray.
A slightly “dry” roller prevents bleeding under the stencil edges.

2. Apply Paint in Light Layers

Roll over stencil openings using gentle, even pressure. Multiple light coats look cleaner and last longer than one heavy layer.

3. Lift Carefully

Lift the stencil straight up, avoiding smudges.

Step 4B: 60 mil or 125 mil LLDPE  Spray Application

The thicker materials lay extremely flat and are reusable for long-term or multi-site projects. Spray application ensures clean edges without overloading the stencil.

1. Apply Paint Using a Spray Method

Hold spray paint 6–10 inches above the stencil. Spray in smooth, sweeping motions, starting before and ending after the stencil opening.

2. Spray from top of design and Move Your Way downward

Avoid spraying too close to the edge, which can cause paint to pool or bleed.

3. Lift Carefully

Lift the stencil straight up, avoiding smudges.

 

Step 5: Cleanup & Storage

• Wash or soak the stencil sheets with warm, soapy water immediately after use. If needed, scrub gently with soft bristle brush to remove any remaining paint.
• Lay them flat or hang them to dry completely before storing.
• With proper care, your stencil can be reused for multiple playgrounds and community projects!

Check out our Tips on How to Clean Your Playground Stencils