What materials are SMT stencils made of?

Made from 304HTA stainless steel with precision tolerance up to ±0.003 mm for accurate paste deposition

What is the lead time for SMT stencil production?

Production time is typically 12 hours for standard stencils. Turnaround may vary based on complexity and custom requirements.

Can I order an SMT stencil together with my PCBs?

Yes, after selecting all PCB parameters on the PCB order page, roll to the bottom of the same page and select the "Stencil" option to start your SMT stencil order.

SMT Stencil | High-Precision PCB Stencil Manufacturing| JLCPCB

What is an SMT Stencil?

SMT stencil, also called PCB stencil, is a precision stainless-steel stencil used in PCB assembly. It features laser-cut apertures aligned with PCB pads to ensure accurate and consistent solder paste deposition, minimizing defects such as bridging or misalignment and enabling reliable, high-quality PCB assembly.

JLCPCB Stencil Overview

JLCPCB stencil service is the earliest and most mature manufacturing lines developed after our PCB prototyping service, trusted by millions of engineers worldwide. To ensure consistent and accurate SMT printing, we continuously invest in advanced manufacturing equipment, including over 30 high-precision laser cutting machines, and use 304 HTA stainless steel with tolerances as tight as ±0.003mm.

We specialize in precision laser-cut stencil technology, supporting both solder paste and adhesive (red glue) applications for high-quality PCB assembly. JLCPCB offers a wide range of circuit board stencil customization options, such as framed and frameless stencils, step stencils, nano-coating, electropolishing and ultrasonic-resistant adhesive. These enhancements improve solder paste release, increase first-pass SMT yield and optimize printing performance for mixed-technology and high-density PCBs.

Types of JLCPCB Stencils

Surface mount stencil can be categorized by stencil frame and manufacturing process.

Classification by Stencil Frame

This category focuses on whether the stencil has a frame or how it is supported.

Non-Framework (Frameless Stencil)

• Standalone stainless-steel sheet without a frame

• More flexible and space-saving

• Ideal for small batches or manual assembly

Framework (Framed Stencil)

• The stencil is fixed in an aluminum or steel frame

• Easy to handle and position accurately

• Suitable for automated pick-and-place machines

Classification by Process & Surface Finish

Nano Coating

Faster solder paste release, more uniform paste deposits, less cleaning—ideal for BGA, QFN and other fine-pitch components.

Learn more about nano-coated stencil >

Electropolishing

Removes micro burrs, smooths aperture walls, and enhances solder paste release, a perfect match with nano-coating.

Step Stencil

Step stencil features varying thicknesses across the stencil, allowing precise solder paste deposition for fine-pitch and high-density components.

Ultrasonic-Res. Adhesive

Ensures framed stencil stability during printing and prevents vibration or shifting—strong bond, heat resistance, corrosion resistance.

JLCPCB Stencil Manufacturing Capabilities

View more about stencil manufacturing capabilities >

How to Order PCB Stencil in 3 Options at JLCPCB?

Why Choose Surface Mount Stencil from JLCPCB?

Excellent Print Quality

Manufactured using 30+ high-precision laser cutting machines, the stencils feature clean, burr-free apertures with consistent quality. Made from 304 HTA stainless steel with tolerances as tight as ±0.003mm for accurate solder paste deposition and offers optional nano-coating and electropolishing to improve paste release, reduce bridging, and increase first-pass SMT yield.

Competitive Pricing & Fast Turnaround

Precise laser-cut stencil starts at just $3 (100 × 100mm) . Premium nano-coating and electropolishing are available at highly competitive, industry-leading prices.

Fully automated laser cutting ensures production in as fast as 12 hours. Most stencil orders are shipped within 24 hours of confirmation.

Full Custom Support

Available in framed and frameless stencils, supporting extensive customization—including size, outline, thickness, panelized designs, and splitting large frameless stencils into multiple pieces—plus advanced process options such as nano-coating, electropolishing, step stencils, and ultrasonic-resistant adhesive to meet diverse PCB assembly requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions About PCB Stencil

Yes. If you’re a new user and order an SMT stencil (size≤ 380 × 280 mm), your new-user stencil coupon will fully cover the stencil cost. You’ll only need to pay the shipping cost and a $1 customs-required charge.

View more about SMT stencil FAQs >

What Customers Say About JLCPCB Circuit Board Stencil?

36****6A Jan 16, 2026

Sanding

This custom SMT stencil is manufactured to a very high standard. Aperture accuracy, edge quality, and thickness uniformity are excellent, ensuring reliable and repeatable solder paste deposition. The stencil alignment is precise, and the overall rigidity makes it easy to use during assembly. Since switching to this stencil, we have seen a noticeable improvement in soldering quality and process consistency. A high-quality product that clearly reflects professional manufacturing expertise.