<p>A spherical stencil device is provided in two or more parts (10) which come together to encapsulate a spherical sporting article (8) placed therein. The parts (10) each have a series of groups of apertures (12, 14) through which markings onto the surface of the encapsulated article (8) can be made. The device has two opposed locations at which it is cut-away (16) to provide finger holdings of the article (8) placed therein to enable the article (8) to be held stationary in the device during the operation of marking an article.</p>
