How to Paint Stencil Designs on an Apiary

Prime the outside of the hive with exterior latex paint in any color. White is a popular choice because it helps keep the bees cool during the summer, but any light color can serve the same purpose. Dip wide, flat paintbrushes into the paint can and apply a layer of paint using horizontal stokes. Allow the paint to dry, then apply a second layer in vertical strokes. Let dry.

Sand the designated stencil areas lightly with medium-grit sandpaper, which creates a "toothed" surface, then wipe clean with a damp sponge. Wipe the outside walls of the empty hive with a clean, damp sponge to remove surface dust and dirt. Allow the walls to dry fully.

Tape the stencil precisely in place to one side of the hive. Pour the desired paint color into a cup and dip the ends of the paintbrush into the paint. Shake excess paint from the brush into the cup, then dab the tip of the brush over the open spaces of the stencil while holding it perpendicular to the side of the hive. This is stippling, a technique that prevents the paint from bleeding excessively under the borders of the stencil during application. Add more paint to the brush and repeat the process to fill the entire stencil with an even layer of paint.

Remove the stencil carefully while the paint is still wet and set it aside. Wipe away any paint that bled under the stencil using a cotton swab dipped in water. Paint a crisp edge around the borders of the design with a thin round artist's brush dipped in the paint. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 as needed to paint stencil designs on all the apiary surfaces desired.

Cover the painted stencils with a layer of clear acrylic paint sealer. Dip a flat paintbrush into the sealer, wipe off the excess on a clean sheet of newsprint and apply a thin layer in parallel strokes over the decorations. Allow to dry, then apply two more coats of sealer.