How to Order a Stencil
Ordering with PCB
When ordering a PCB, you can add a stencil using the same Gerber file. Simply enable the “Stencil” toggle on the quote page. The stencil will be made from the solder paste layers in your Gerber file.
Standalone Stencil Order
You can also order a stencil without a PCB. Switch to the “SMT Stencil Only” tab and upload your Gerber file containing solder paste layers.
Stencil Options Explained
Stencil Side
- Top + Bottom (Single): Both sides on one stencil sheet. Requires stencil valid area larger than 2× PCB size
- Top Only: Only top-side paste layer
- Bottom Only: Only bottom-side paste layer
- Top + Bottom (Separate): Two separate stencil sheets
Framework
- No Frame: Stencil sheet without aluminum frame (lower cost)
- With Frame: Stencil mounted in aluminum frame (easier handling, reusable)
Standard Thicknesses (Free)
0.1mm, 0.12mm, 0.15mm, 0.18mm, 0.2mm
Fiducials
- No Fiducial: No alignment marks
- Etched Through: Fiducial marks cut completely through the stencil
- Etched Half: Fiducial marks etched halfway into the stencil
Process Type
- Solder Paste: Standard stencil for solder paste application
- Red Glue: Stencil for adhesive dispensing (wave soldering)
Tips for Stencil Orders
- Ensure your paste layer file contains all required pad openings
- Standard aperture reduction is applied for IC/BGA footprints by default
- For exact paste layer matching, add a remark
- The long side of the PCB automatically aligns with the long stencil side
- Multiple PCB designs can be combined on one stencil if space permits
