How to Paint a Sunflower Hopscotch Playground Stencil: Step-by-Step Guide

Brighten up your playground, schoolyard, or park with a splash of sunshine! The Sunflower Hopscotch Playground Stencil from Stencil Ease is a fun and engaging way to encourage active play while adding cheerful color to any outdoor space. In this tutorial, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from surface prep to painting — to create a long-lasting, professional-looking design.

What You’ll Need

Before you get started, gather these supplies for a smooth and efficient painting process:

Stencil & Materials

• Sunflower Hopscotch Playground Stencil Kit (includes 2 sheets for the sunflower, stem, and leaf backgrounds plus number overlays 1–10)
• Painter’s tape or stencil adhesive spray
• Measuring tape and aerosol chalk to create a chalk line for layout

Painting Supplies

• Protective gloves and mask
• Exterior marking paint or traffic paint - 3 colors for the squares -1 quart of each color recommended and 1 aerosol spray paint can - for the numbers, in white or contrasting color (choose outdoor-rated paint for pavement or asphalt)
• Small paint rollers - at least 1 for each color
• Paint Trays - at least one for each color 
• Drop cloths or cardboard to protect surrounding areas and for masking areas if needed.

Step 1: 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. Mark your placement. Use chalk or masking tape to outline where the sunflower hopscotch will go — remember, the full design is approximately 12 feet tall.

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

Step 2: Position the Stencil

The kit contains:

• Two Sheets to paint the stems, leaves and sunflower
• 10 Leaf-shape number overlays

• Lay the two sheets down, with the two pieces touching - you don't need the number overlays yet, so set those aside for now.
• Secure corners and seam where the two sheets meet using painter’s tape to keep sheets from shifting. You can also weigh down areas with bricks for extra security!
• Ensure the stencil lies flat — this prevents paint bleed underneath.

✅ Pro Tip: Prior to laying down the stencil sheets, misting stencils with water or silicone spray before painting makes cleanup much easier.

Step 3: Apply the Paint

Now the fun begins — time to bring your sunflower hopscotch to life!

Apply the base colors first. 

1. Paint the leaves, stems and sunflower first.
2. Use bright, contrasting paint for the sunflower petals, stem, and leaves.
3. Use light Coats. It's better to do multiple light coats, rather than one heavy coat which can cause paint to seep under the stencil.
4. Let this dry completely before moving on to the numbered overlays.

Add the number overlays

1. Starting at the bottom, and working your way up 1-10, align the leaf-shaped number to it's appropriate opening.
2. Tape down to prevent shifting.
   
3. Spray your numbers in light, even strokes, making sure to hold your can about 6-10 inches away.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Once the paint has fully dried:

• Remove all stencil sheets and overlays.
• Touch up any edges with a small brush if needed.
• Allow paint to cure for 24–48 hours before kids begin to play.

✅ Pro Tip: Add a clear outdoor sealer over your design for extra durability.

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!

Why You’ll Love This Project

• Encourages outdoor play and coordination
• Adds vibrant, cheerful artwork to any playground
• Easy for schools, churches, and community volunteers to install
• Reusable and made from durable, industrial-grade plastic

Ready to bring a little sunshine to your play space? Shop the Sunflower Hopscotch Playground Stencil today and turn any pavement into a place where fun and creativity bloom!