Painting on canvas - what to do?

Ive been asked to do a little project which will be best stencilled on canvas. I have never worked on canvas.
Would somebody who is experienced give me some advice?
What kind of canvas?
How to prepare the canvas?
Should it be stretched while stencilling?
Regular acrylic stencil paints OK?
Protective finish? What?
Can such a work be rolled up for easy transport?( this is sort of a sign)
( yes I know I can find instruction on the internet but would like to hear some personal experience!)

Thanks!

carolvan