Stamping Basics

I have always loved the effect of stamped images on scrapbook pages. But I didn’t want to learn how to use them because I thought it would just be another trend that would start to fade as soon as I invested the money in it. Once I learned how to use them, I wondered why I’d put it off for so long. Rubber Stamping has been around a long time and is here to stay because of its uniqueness and versatility.

You can use stamps to create distinctive titles and journaling. You can also embellish your pages as well as create fun backgrounds to accent your photos. Once you discover the varied uses for stamps, you’re sure to fall in love with them.

There are tons of stamping products available, but you can start out with just a few of the basics. Choose stamps you know you will use on more than one project. The most useful stamps are alphabets, geometric shapes, background stamps, and phrases you know you’ll use over and over such as “Happy Birthday!”

One of the easiest ways to use stamps is to create background paper. Stamp one image or several images repeatedly to get the look you want. Try using white ink on dark paper for an impressive look. Use Alphabet stamps to create titles or to stamp individual words you want to stand out in your journaling.

Be sure to stamp on a hard, even surface. Hold the stamp securely and don’t rock it from side to side as you apply pressure or your image will be blurry. Instead, press the stamp down firmly to ensure all areas of the image receive the same amount of pressure. Always let the image dry before you touch it.

As an alternative to ink pads you can use markers and color right on the stamp. This makes it easy to use varying colors on the same image. Or simply stamp the image in a solid color and then use markers, colored pencils, or chalk to color in the image.

The easiest way to clean your stamps is to use alcohol-free baby wipes. Another option is a 1:1 ratio of water and window cleaner. Spray it on a folded paper towel and then stamp on the wet surface until all ink is removed.

I hope these simple tips make the idea of using rubber stamps less daunting. Experiment with them. They are ideal for all sorts of projects: handmade cards, gift bags and tags, wrapping paper, bookmarks, gift books, scrapbook pages and more.

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