🎨 How to Paint a Colored Hopscotch Without an Outline

This guide shows you how to paint a bright, durable colored hopscotch game directly onto pavement using Stencil Ease stencils. No black outline is needed—each number block will have a solid color for a clean, modern look.

Important note about stencil materials:

This hopscotch stencil is available in two materials:

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

These instructions work for both materials, but Step 3 (Painting the Squares) is slightly different depending on which material you have. Both methods are included below

Materials Needed

• Stencil Ease Hopscotch Stencil Set No Outline Version
• Exterior marking paint or traffic paint
• 3 colors for the squares -1 quart of each color recommended
• 1 aerosol spray paint can - for the numbers, in white or contrasting color
• Painter’s tape - for securing stencil pieces
• Paint roller and a 2-inch angled brush (LLDPE option only)
• Roller trays - for each color (large paper plates can work in a pinch)
• Paper towels
• Measuring tape and chalk line
• Protective gloves and mask 
• Cleaning rags and mild detergent
• Black traffic paint for priming older asphalt (Optional) 

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

1. Unroll stencils and give them time to flatten while you are preparing and cleaning the area.
2. For the best results, paint on recently resealed asphalt. A fresh sealcoat provides a smooth, uniform surface that helps paint adhere and appear vibrant.
3. If resealing isn’t possible, prime the area using black traffic paint to create a clean, even base for your hopscotch design.
4. Sweep or power-wash the pavement to remove dirt, dust, or debris.
5. Allow it to dry completely before painting.
6. Use a chalk line to mark where the hopscotch will go — make sure it’s straight and centered.

Step 2: Position the Stencil

1. Place the main stencil piece where you want the Hopscotch to be. *For the larger hopscotch, it will be in two pieces.
2.  Use painters tape, bricks or a combination of both, to make sure that the stencil does not move or shift.

Step 3: Paint the Square Interiors - Choose the method that matches your stencil material:

Step 3A - If You Have the Thicker LLDPE Stencil - LDPE is sturdy and sits slightly above the pavement, so outlining first helps give crisp edges.

1. Place a pancake-sized amount of paint in the center.
2. Dip the 2-inch angled brush lightly into the paint.
3. Wipe any dripping paint into the unpainted center area.
4. Using a dry-brush technique, paint the edges first:
5. Keep the long edge of the brush parallel to the stencil edge.
6. Use light strokes.
7. Be patient in corners to avoid paint build-up.
8. Once edges are done, use a roller to fill the interior.
9. Paint all squares of one color, then repeat with the next colors.
10. When dry to the touch (slightly tacky), apply a second coat for solid coverage.
    The second coat usually takes less paint.

Step 3B — If You Have the Thin Mylar Stencil - Mylar sits closer to the surface, so a brush outline isn’t necessary.

1. Roll only, using a dry-roller technique to prevent bleed-through. Load your roller, then remove excess paint:
2. If liquid paint forms, there is too much paint.
3. If no liquid appears, the roller is ready.
4. Squeeze out paint in the tray, then roll on a cloth or paper towel until the roller feels damp, not wet.
5. Quick test: press a finger or pencil into the roller.
6. Roll lightly inside the stencil opening until the square is evenly filled.
7. Repeat for all squares of that color, then switch colors.
8. Apply a second coat once the first is dry to the touch.

✅ Pro Tip: Alternate colors for each square to create a bright, playful design.

Step 4: Paint the Numbers

1. Once the colored squares are fully dry, align the numbered Square stencils in their respective boxes. Use tape to keep them from moving.
2. Spray numbers using aerosol paint in white or another contrasting color.
3. Remove stencil carefully while paint is still slightly tacky to prevent peeling.

Step 5: Clean and Store the Stencils

1. After use, soak stencils in water to soften any dried paint.
2. For solvent-based paints, apply a compatible cleaning solvent with a brush to loosen residue.
3. Once the paint softens, scrub gently with a soft-bristle brush to remove remaining paint.
4. Rinse clean and allow to dry completely before storing flat or rolled.
5. Store stencils in a cool, dry location for reuse.

✅ Pro Tips

• Misting stencils with water or silicone spray before painting makes cleanup much easier. (make sure that if you are spraying silicone, you do it away from where the stencil will be positioned as to not interfere with the paint adhesion to the pavement).
• Use a non-slip additive in your final coat for playground safety.
• Paint on a dry, calm day above 50°F (10°C).
• For long-term durability, seal with a clear outdoor coating after the paint cures.
• Keep paper towels nearby to blot excess paint and maintain crisp edges.