Hello- I just tried to stencil using royal icing and a mist spray and it was all pretty bad!  I think at least part of the problem is that the top of the cookies aren't perfectly flat.  I used the techniques described in a previous question I posted using painter sticks when I rolled the dough.  The recipe I use does not spread a lot but the top of the cookies do puff up a bit.  Anyone have any tips?  TIA

I use my fondant smoother to press them flat when I take them out of the oven.

Oh!  Good idea- we have one of those.  Will try that.  Thanks so much!

You're welcome! 

you could ice the bottoms if they will sit flat for you upside down

You might try the no fail sugar cookie recipe (NFSC)  http://www.cakecentral.com/recipe/2055/no-fail-sugar-cookies

I have never tried to stencil on cookies, but these don't rise much