How to Paint the Game Buddy™ Playground Stencil on Pavement (Asphalt or Concrete)
Posted by CATHERINE MCKERN
If you’re looking for a fun, high-impact way to energize a schoolyard or park, the Game Buddy™ Game Controller Playground Stencil is an awesome option. This guide walks you step-by-step through planning, prepping, painting, and protecting your new pavement game—so it looks sharp and holds up to busy feet and big weather.
This stencil is laid out like a familiar game controller, with each “button” tied to a motion. Kids simply step onto a button to do the action. Learn some Fun ways Children Can Use Our Game Buddy Game Controller Playground Design!
What You’ll Need
Materials
- Game Buddy™ Playground Stencil - Contains 1 stencil sheet for painting the controller, as well as all of the buttons needed, neatly nested within the controller cut-out.
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Pavement paint / traffic-grade marking paints. We suggest using a liquid paint for the game controller base layer, since it is a larger area. Past that, you can decide if you want to use the same type of paint for the nested details, or you may decide to spray those smaller areas. Either will work. You will need the following colors:
- White: for controller outline and "Game Buddy" text
- Red,Blue and Black: for the base nested pieces.
- Black, Red, Green, Orange and Light Blue: for the middle nested pieces.
- White: for the top nested Layers.
- Paint trays: One for each color.
- Paint Rollers: Multiple sizes help for this project.
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Painter’s tape (for securing stencil pieces)
- Paper towels and some pieces of used cardboard for masking.
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Measuring tape and chalk line
Additional Tools That Are Optional But May but helpful
- Protective gloves and mask
- Traffic cones or caution tape: to block the area while paint cures
Step 1: Prepare, Measure and Mark the Surface
- For the best results, paint on recently resealed asphalt. A fresh sealcoat provides a smooth, uniform surface that helps paint adhere and appear vibrant.
- If resealing isn’t possible, prime the area using black traffic paint to create a clean, even base for your circular clock design.
- Sweep or power-wash the pavement to remove dirt, dust, or debris.
- Allow it to dry completely before painting.
✅ Pro Tips: The Game Buddy™ design is about 7 feet wide—so pick a spot with:
- Flat pavement (avoid heavy cracks or crumbling sections)
- Good visibility (kids gravitate toward it!)
- Space around the design so kids can move safely
Tip: Avoid low spots where water pools—standing water shortens paint life.
Step 2: Secure and Position the Game Controller Stencil
- Since your stencil design includes the entire controller background, PLUS nested buttons, you will paint the controller first, and button overlays separately.
- Lay your stencil down - you don't need the nested items yet, so set those aside for now.
- Secure edges using painter’s tape to keep from shifting. You can also weigh down areas with bricks for extra security!
- Make sure wind cannot lift edges — this is a key cause of paint bleed.
✅ Pro Tip: Prior to laying down the stencil sheets, misting stencils with water or silicone spray before painting makes cleanup much easier.
Step 3: Paint the entire base layer in white Using a “Dry Roller” Technique!
- Pour a small amount of outdoor paint into a tray.
- Load the roller lightly — then roll it out almost dry on the upper tray until the roller looks evenly coated but not shiny or dripping.
- Apply in light, even passes, almost like you’re dusting the paint on.
- Build up coverage slowly with 2–3 thin coats rather than 1 heavy coat.
- Don't forget to paint the "Game Buddy" Text underneath!
Why this works:
- Prevents paint from seeping under the stencil edges.
- Creates smooth, sharp lettering and shapes.
Step 3: Apply Nested Layers
For these overlays:
- Align the nested pieces precisely on top of the base shape openings.
- Tape the nested items securely to the other stencil material the so they won’t shift.
- Use the same dry-roller method (you can use a smaller roller for these details). You may also spray those elements, if you'd prefer.
- Apply 2–3 thin coats for bright, solid colors.
Step 3A: Apply Nested Base Layer - Red and Blue areas, as well as separate black areas:
These areas can be painted with spray or roller, however, adjacent areas will need to be masked so that each color stays distinct.
Step 3B: Apply Nested Middle Layer - Black, Red, Orange, Green and Light Blue Areas:
These areas can be painted with spray or roller, however, adjacent areas will need to be masked so that each color stays distinct.
Step 3C: Apply Nested Top Layer - White Areas:
These areas can be painted with spray or roller, however, adjacent areas will need to be masked so that each color stays distinct.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Once the paint has fully dried:
- Touch up any edges with a small brush if needed.
- Remove All Stencil Pieces
- 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!
With the right prep and light-coat technique, the Game Buddy™ Playground Stencil creates a bold, kid-approved activity area that looks professional and lasts. It’s a super fun way to turn plain pavement into interactive play.
