Stamping isn’t just for cards anymore.More and more scrappers are beginning to use rubber stamps to enhance their pages. Here are some tips and techniques to get you started.

• Rubber Stamps
• Ink Pads and Markers
• Paper Cleaning Supplies
• Storage Units

Start Small Purchase a couple of stamps with images of things of interest to you. As you learn to use your stamps you can gradually add more to your collection.

Stamps come in several forms. Most are on wooden blocks – some with handles. That’s how stamps were first made. There are also acrylic backed stamps. They can make it easier to position your stamp.

Using your stamp properly with the best results.

• Work on a flat, smooth surface
• Apply stamp to ink pad by pressing or tapping several times
• Don’t press too hard or you will get ink places you don’t want it.
• Check your pad to make sure it doesn’t have any areas without ink.
• I always like to try my stamp on a scrap piece of paper first.

There are several types of inks available.

• Dye-based is most commonly used for scrapping.
• It is acid free and non-toxic.
• Every color imaginable is available. Even rainbow.
• Pigment inks are a thicker ink and slow drying. Metallic colors are pigment inks. This ink is mainly used for Embossing. You will need to dry this ink with a heat gun. It may never completely dry on its own.
• Brush Markers are wonderful for making multi colored images. You apply the ink directly to your pad. They are very easy to use and lots of fun.

The key word here is EXPERIMENT!

• You can use your stamps on most scrap booking papers.
• When using vellum, give your ink some extra drying time before moving or touching your paper.

Your rubber stamps will last a very long time if you take the time to clean your stamps properly.

• Loosen the Ink Give them a try and see which works best for you.
  • Spray bottle with ½ window cleaner without ammonia and ½ water Sponge with dish detergent and water
  • Or My Favorite – Baby Wipes without alcohol
  • Some inks actually stain the rubber. Don’t worry if your stamp still has a little color on it. Just clean it the best you can.
• (B) Remove Ink from pad.
  • Paper towels moistened with water
  • Scrub Pad with bristles. You will find this in your local craft store.
  • Or My Favorite – Rub pad over dampened sponge. Make sure you use a cellulose sponge. Other sponges will leave particles on your pad.

(C) Drying: Blot with dry paper towels.

It is important that you keep your rubber stamps away from sunlight and heat. This will dry your stamps out and cause cracking. Label the ends of your containers with category or theme.

Plastic tubs or shoe boxes are great.