You can use rubber stamps to decorate homemade cards and stationery.Different looks will be given to you by inking your stamps.It is possible to make your piece look more sophisticated with the use of a rubber stamp.Clean and store your stamps and ink to make sure they are always ready to use.
Step 1: Pick your stamp.
The type of stamp you use depends on the project you are doing.Larger stamps are great for larger projects.If you want to work on a project, you should have a variety of stamps.You can get clear or wood-backed stamps.You will be able to see where the edge of the stamp is with clear stamps.
Step 2: Permanent ink can be used for quick-drying and precise lines.
The lines created with a rubber stamp are very sharp and will dry quickly.Permanent ink is great for precision work.
Step 3: The ink is richer in color.
It will give you a brighter, more vibrant color if you use Pigment ink.It is good to use if you are making greeting cards.It makes sense since the colors won't get lost in each other.
Step 4: The stamp needs to be firmly in the ink.
This is true no matter what type of ink you use.Don't smash the stamp into the ink.Make sure the ink on your stamp is evenly covering it by checking it a few times.
Step 5: Put your stamp on the paper.
You don't want to lose part of your design if the paper is not much bigger than the stamp.As you press down, don't rock the stamp.Apply even, steady pressure.
Step 6: You can run your finger over the stamp.
If you use a larger stamp, this is important.You don't have to rock and wiggle the stamp if you run your finger over the top.
Step 7: Pick the stamp up.
Pick it up straight after you pressed down.
Step 8: Let the ink dry.
It can take between a few minutes and a half hour for the ink to dry, depending on the type of ink you use.If you don't know if the ink is dry, rub your finger over it.It's not dry yet.
Step 9: You can layer stamps for a more sophisticated look.
If you want clear colors, let the ink dry in between stamps.To create a more integrated look, you can stamp over still-wet designs.Since the ink will often bleed into one another, this is a cool look if you are using water-based markers.
Step 10: Water-based markers are available.
If you want different parts of the stamp to come out in different colors, water-based markers are a good choice.You need to make a design plan so you know which colors to use on the stamp.
Step 11: The stamp has a color on it.
The water-based markers can be used to color the stamp.Water-based markers blend into one another, so you can have some overlap between colors.
Step 12: Take a deep breath on the stamp.
To re-wet the ink after coloring the stamp, breathe directly on it.Before you stamp it, make sure the ink is shiny and transfers the color to the paper you are using.
Step 13: Put a sponge in your paint.
If you stamp on furniture or walls, you can use craft paint or regular paint.Pour some paint onto a paper towel if you are working on a bigger project.This will be a large ink pad.
Step 14: Paint the stamp.
There is a sponge on the stamp.Continue until you see a coat of paint on the stamp.If you are using paint on a paper towel, dip the stamp into the paint.If you use the paper towel technique, you should spread some newspapers under the towel.
Step 15: Make sure to stamp firmly.
It is important to not press too hard on your stamp.The paint on the sides of the stamp might smoosh if you do.
Step 16: Apply pressure.
Don't support one side of the stamp over the other.This can make parts of your stamped area look different.Place your palm over the center of the stamp and press down.
Step 17: Load your stamp with what you want.
Since the steps for this method are not time sensitive, you can use any type of ink you want.
Step 18: Press down with the stamp.
The stamp should not be rocking back and forth.Pull the stamp straight up.
Step 19: A second stamp should be made on a piece of paper.
The scrap stamp will act as a shield for the design you just stamped.You can cut out the design from a spare piece of paper after you stamped it.To cover it, place this over the design you stamped on it.
Step 20: Your stamp can be reloaded.
Next to the original stamp, place it carefully.This will allow you to get very close to the original design.The stamp needs to be pressed down firmly.
Step 21: After use, wipe your stamp with alcohol-free wipes.
The stamp has ink or paint on it.It makes sure your stamp is clean and ready to use next time.
Step 22: Use soap and water to clean stamps.
In a small bowl of warm water, mix a few squirts of dish soap.Put the toothbrush in the bowl and scrub the stamp.If you are using your rubber stamps with paint, you should use soap and water.You can give your stamps a deep clean by doing this type of cleaning every few months.
Step 23: Store ink pads upside down.
Before you turn them upside down, make sure the tops are secured.Water-based markers and paint should be sealed tightly.
Step 24: Finished.