Hello makers and engineers! At JLCPCB, we always strive to improve the quality and performance of our SMT stencils. If you encounter any issues, have suggestions, or want to share your experience with our stencils, please don’t hesitate to let us know. Your feedback helps us make better products and serve the community even better. The more you share, the more we can improve together! Thank you for being part of our maker community—your voice truly matters. Happy building, JLCPCB Stencil Team

Want a stencil but don’t need a PCB? No problem! 👌 At JLCPCB, you can order an SMT stencil on its own — no PCB required. Here’s how: 1️⃣ Go to the ordering page and choose“SMT Stencil" from the top menu. 2️⃣ Upload your Gerber file for the stencil. 3️⃣ Select your options: framed / frameless, electropolishing, nano coating, etc. 4️⃣ Add to cart and checkout — that’s it! Do you usually order stencils with your PCB or standalone? Any tips for first-time stencil orders?

A Bottom Side Stencil follows the bottom side data of your Gerber file. Use this if your PCB has components on the bottom side and you want precise paste deposition. 💬 Have you ever tried printing the bottom side first, or do you usually start with the top?

This is the standard method for double-sided PCB assembly: One stencil for the top side One stencil for the bottom side It gives you full flexibility, easier handling, and usually better printing consistency. 💬 Which method do you prefer for double-sided boards: single stencil or separate stencils? Why?

his option lets you create one stencil that contains both top and bottom side patterns from your Gerber files. It can be convenient for some prototyping or small-size PCBs, but make sure your assembly method supports it. 💬 Question: Have you ever used a single stencil for both sides? How did it go?

A Top Side Stencil follows the top side data of your Gerber file. It’s the most common option if you’re only placing components on the top side of your PCB. 💬Do you usually assemble only top-side components, or do you often need bottom-side stencils too?

Ever struggled with PCBs that have components of different heights in the same paste layer? That’s where Step Stencils come in handy. Why use a Step Stencil? Different aperture heights for components of varying thickness Ensures even paste deposition across all parts Reduces bridging or insufficient solder for taller components Compatible with fine-pitch and dense layouts At JLCPCB, Step Stencils are laser-cut with precision, and you can choose framed option, with electropolishing or nano-coating for improved paste release. 💬 We’re curious: Have you tried a Step Stencil for your boards yet? Which types of components or layouts do you usually use it for? Share your experience — your tips might help someone else handle tricky PCBs!

At JLCPCB, we offer two types of SMT stencils: 1️⃣ Framed Stencils Comes with a sturdy frame for easier handling Ideal for repeated printing or using with pick-and-place machines Keeps tension even and flat, especially for larger PCBs 2️⃣ Frameless Stencils Just the stencil sheet, no frame included Perfect for smaller boards or prototyping Can be used with manual stencil holders or clamps Both options give laser-cut precision and clean apertures, with optional electropolishing or nano coating for better paste release. 💬 We’d love to hear from you: Which type do you usually use — framed or frameless? Any tips or tricks for handling them during assembly?

Nano-coated SMT stencils are designed to improve solder paste release, especially for fine-pitch and dense PCB designs. By applying a nano-scale coating to the stencil surface and aperture walls, the stencil becomes more hydrophobic, which helps reduce solder paste adhesion and residue during printing. 🔍 What problems can nano-coated stencils help solve? Poor paste release on fine-pitch components Inconsistent deposits on small apertures Paste sticking to the bottom of the stencil Frequent stencil cleaning during assembly ⚙️ Typical use cases Nano-coated stencils are commonly used for: Fine-pitch ICs (QFN, LQFP, small-pitch connectors) High-density PCBs Boards with mixed aperture sizes Projects requiring more stable printing consistency 🧠 Things to keep in mind Nano coating does not replace proper aperture design Paste type and printing parameters still matter It’s especially effective when combined with electropolished apertures 💬 Share your experience Have you used a nano-coated stencil before? What pitch or component type did you use it for? Did it reduce cleaning frequency or improve consistency? Hand assembly or machine printing? Feel free to start a new post to share your results, photos or questions. Your real-world experience can help others choose the right stencil for their projects.

This space is created for makers, engineers, and PCB assembly enthusiasts to share, discuss, and learn about everything related to SMT stencils. Here, you’re encouraged to: 1.Share your SMT stencil experiences (hand soldering or machine assembly) 2.Discuss stencil types (framed, frameless, electropolished, nano-coated, etc.) 3.Post assembly tips, paste release results, or real project photos 4.Ask questions about aperture design, pitch challenges or yield improvement Whether you’re working on a simple prototype or a complex fine-pitch design, your insights and questions can help others in the community. 💬 Everyone is welcome to post, comment, and exchange ideas. Let’s build a practical and friendly knowledge hub for SMT stencil users together. Happy sharing, SMT Stencil Team

When it comes to PCB assembly, stencil quality directly affects solder paste deposition and yield. At JLCPCB, our SMT stencils start from just $3, making professional-grade stencil manufacturing accessible for prototyping and small-batch production. What you get: Laser-cut apertures with high precision Smooth aperture walls for stable paste release Available options: framed / frameless, electropolishing, nano-coating Compatible with fine-pitch and dense SMT designs Whether you’re assembling boards by hand or using pick-and-place machines, a reliable stencil helps improve consistency and reduce rework. SMT Stencil from $3 — design upload takes only minutes. Feel free to share your stencil setup or assembly experience in the comments.