MILKY TRANSLUCENT VS. CLEAR ACETATE

Same stencil, same fit, two different materials.  Here's how to pick the one that suits the way you plan.

Short on time?  Go with Milky Translucent.  It's easier to line up, harder to lose, and it's the one I personally use.
Shop Stencils Find Your Perfect Stencil

SEE THE DIFFERENCE

Switch between a light and a darker grid to see how each material looks on your page.

Milky Translucent

Stands out against the page, so it's easy to line up. Very light lines are harder to see through it.

Clear Acetate

Lets every line show through, even faint ones. It can blend into the page, so lining up takes a closer look.

This is an illustration. The real look will vary a little with your paper and lighting.

WHICH ONE IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Milky Translucent

★ Amanda's pick

A soft, frosted finish that stands out on your page.

Why you'll love it

  • Easier to line up, because it stands out against the page
  • Less likely to go missing on your desk or in your planner bag
  • The lower-priced option

Keep in mind

  • Lighter lines are harder to see through it

Best for: your first stencil, everyday planning, and anyone who has ever lost a stencil (no judgment).

Clear Acetate

A clear, glassy finish that lets your page show through.

Why you'll love it

  • Looks sleek
  • Easy to see light lines through it

Keep in mind

  • Easier to misplace
  • Harder to line up, since it blends into the page
  • Costs a little more

Best for: very light grids and anyone who loves a sleek look.

WHAT STAYS THE SAME

Whichever one you pick, you're getting the same stencil.

10 mil thick

Both are thin and flexible, so they're easy to trace around and won't add bulk to your planner.

Same design

Both are cut from the same stencil design, so the layout and fit don't change.

Binding-friendly

Both bend easily around coils, discs, rings, and other bindings.

Planner-pocket thin

Both slip neatly into your planner pocket, pencil pouch, or planner bag.

QUESTIONS I GET A LOT

Is there a price difference?

Yes.  Clear Acetate costs a little more than Milky Translucent.  You'll see the exact price update on the listing when you choose your material.
Does every stencil come in both materials?

Most do.  If a listing doesn't show a Material option, that stencil is made in Milky Translucent. My dashboards and the Hobonichi Weeks Plastic Stencil are made from different materials, so check those listings for details.
Will the fit be different depending on the material?

No.  Both versions are cut from the same design, so the spacing and layout line up with your planner the same way.  The only thing that changes is how the stencil looks on your page.
How do I keep my stencil clean?

Wipe it between color changes with a paper towel or microfiber cloth.  Ink can collect on the surface and transfer to another area or color.  For more tips, see How to Use Your Stencils.
What pens work best?

Use any pen or highlighter you love - but keep in mind that a fine-tip pen generally works best.  You can find my everyday favorites on Amanda's Favorite Products.
I'm still not sure. Can you help?

Of course!  Send me a message and I'll help you choose.  If you're also deciding which stencil fits your planner, try the Find Your Perfect Stencil quiz.

Still deciding?  Start with Milky Translucent. You can always add a Clear Acetate one later.

Xx, Amanda
Shop Stencils How to Use Your Stencils