Thanks for the kind words Mark.
In answer to your questions...
depending on how many coats were needed to cover, usually betwen 10 - 15 minutes, i always use enamel paint for this. the more coats i have to use, the longer i leave it before removing the stencils. but its NEVER much longer than about 15 minutes.
Yes... Very observant of you!! its a fender amp sitting on my bench.. only a solid state one unfortunately, a Pro185 belonging to my band mate, in need of a few repairs.