If you have a stencil that will be painted more than one color, either cover the second color's spaces with scotch tape or your fingertip so that this area will be protected. Using the stencil brush, dip it into the paint, wipe off the excess, and dab the brush onto some paper toweling until the brush is almost dry. Now pounce the brush over the positioned stencil, moving it toward the center so that no paint goes under the stencil's edges. Some patterns look best with the spaces solidly filled, some you can paint less heavily. Once you have stenciled the pattern with a color let it dry and proceed to the next color.
Some patterns look better with a bit more detail.
You may wish to add a bit of contrasting color using a fine brush. Be sure to note the colors you have used on this practice sheet so that you can remember the combinations you used the next time. When weaving a basket that will be stenciled, keep in mind the size of the ash and the stencil that you will be using. Be sure that any staining is completely dry. Try to keep the stencil positioned correctly so that the paintings all appear to be at the same level.