EASY DOES IT: INKING STAMPS

Ink smudges on a stamped project have a way of wrecking your day. Those nasty smudges usually result because ink was on the block and/or the stamp was rocked during the stamping process.

If a stamp is pounded on a pad with a vengence, it's a given that ink will end up on the block. Stand at the counter and place the stamp, die up, on the counter; gently pat the pad on the die. Hold the pad so it is parallel to the die. A tilted pad will leave ink on the block. Since you're looking at the die, you know when the die is evenly covered with a thin (THIN) layer of paint.

If the stamp is big, and the pad you want to use is small (Cat's Eye, Petal Point, etc.), use a hard rubber brayer to apply the ink to the die. Roll the inked brayer lightly (no heavy pressure) over the die, making sure all areas are inked.

Should there be ink on the block, wipe it off with a cotton swab. If any ink was removed from the die, reink as necessary.

If your fingers are inky, clean them off with a damp cloth. Don't dilly dally...you don't want the ink to dry on the die.

Continue standing and place the stamp straight down on the surface being stamped. Straight down. Apply even, gentle pressure (even more gentle if it's a clear or polymer stamp) across the back of the block. Lift the stamp...straight up...no wiggles or waggles.

If the stamp is large, place a hard cover book that is at least four inches longer and wider than the block on the back of the block. Apply pressure to the outer edges and center of the back of the book. Carefully pick up the book (do not allow the stamp to shift). Lift the stamp straight up from the surface.

Enjoy no-smudge stamping.