Abstract: A blank and method for using the same wherein the blank for conversion to a stencil by spark erosion through a stencil layer to a conductive face is arranged so that the layer and face do not have to be peeled apart and chemical and physical interaction between them is avoided, by bonding them only close to one edge of the blank. To prevent shrinkage of the layer to be perforated, a supporting backing is attached thereto to be peeled away before perforation. The conductive face on a backing sheet can be detached along a perforated line close to said edge. A spine that remains attached to the perforated layer facilitates mounting the stencil in a machine.