Apparatus and method for cleaning a stencil and a method for forming the apparatus

A method for making an apparatus for cleaning a stencil, wherein the stencil comprises at least one cavity at a first surface of the stencil and a plurality of apertures extending within the stencil between the at least one cavity and a second surface of the stencil which is opposite to the first surface, and wherein the method comprises:

• providing a carrier;
• attaching a supporting material on the carrier;
• patterning the supporting material corresponding to the stencil to form a supporting member comprising a base portion and at least one cleaning portion protruding from the base portion, wherein each of the at least one cleaning portion is mateable with and receivable within one of the at least one cavity of the stencil;
• and
• attaching a wiper on the supporting member.

A method for cleaning a stencil, wherein the stencil comprises at least one cavity at a first surface of the stencil, and a plurality of apertures extending within the stencil between the at least one cavity and a second surface of the stencil which is opposite to the first surface, and wherein the method comprises:

• providing a stencil cleaning apparatus, wherein the stencil cleaning apparatus comprises a carrier, a supporting member attached on the carrier and comprising a base portion and at least one cleaning portion protruding from the base portion, and a wiper detachably disposed on the supporting member;
• mounting the stencil on the stencil cleaning apparatus to accommodate each of the at least one cleaning portion within one of the at least one cavity of the stencil and press the wiper against the stencil;
• and
• moving the stencil cleaning apparatus with respect to the stencil to remove residuals within the apertures of the stencil through direct contact between the wiper and the residuals.