Perfect Stamping- Tips and Tricks

Perfect Stamping- Tips and Tricks

1. Start with a clean work surface and clean tools. 

2.   Use the right kind of ink for the job your are doing. 

Knowing what kind of ink will work well on the surface you're stamping on is the first step to clear, crisp images that won't smear. 

3. Fully ink the image

Unless your goal is a distressed or fuzzy image, verify your stamp is fully inked before stamping your image. Use pad to stamp technique on larger stamps; as I have shown you in class.

4.  Use Your Tools for Perfect Placement

Use grid lines on acrylic blocks to help you line up your stamp on the block and use a Stamp-a-ma-jig to perfectly place your image on your project. 

5. Stamp straight down & lift straight up

Do not rock your stamp.  Practice stamping in a straight down, straight up motion to create clear stamped images without that annoying "halo" effect. It helps to stand up when you stamp. 

6. Clean your stamps

Take the time to thoroughly clean your stamps when you first get them; and  every time you use them.  They will last longer and take the ink better next time you use them. 

7. Condition your stamps

If you aren't happy with the quality of your stamped images,rub the surface of your stamp with a large eraser in order to give your ink a little texture to grip to, or rub over a piece of denim. I suggest that every new stamp set gets conditioned and cleaned prior to the first use.