DIY Embossing Stamp

Embossing techniques can also be used to create designs in tiles.

Embossing is the process used to create a raised image on a piece of paper. The image is created when the paper is squeezed between a carved image and a relief piece.This technique is commonly used by a notary public to authenticate a document. Crafters also use this technique in scrapbooking.

Things You'll Need

• 4 ounces polymer clay
• Double-ball stylus
• Wire loop sculpting tool
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Measuring tape
• Permanent marker
• Plexiglass
• Circular saw
• Strong adhesive glue

Instructions

1. Form 2 ounces of the polymer clay into a 2-inch square that is 1 inch high. Carve the desired image into the top of the polymer clay square. Use the wire loop sculpting tool to remove the blank areas of the seal. Level the removed areas with the double-ball stylus.

2. Preheat the oven set to the manufacturer's specifications on the polymer-clay package. Place the carved square on a baking sheet and place the clay in the oven for the recommended amount of time. Remove the clay and allow it to cool completely.

3. Measure, mark and cut two 3-inch-by-3-inch pieces of plexiglass.

4. Apply a thin layer of strong adhesive glue to the back of the carved clay piece. Center the piece on one piece of plexiglass. Push the clay down firmly onto the surface and allow the glue to dry completely.

5. Form the remaining 2 ounces of the polymer clay into a 2-inch square that is 1 inch high. Gently press the surface of this newly formed square onto the top of your carved clay block until the image is present in clear relief.

6. Preheat the oven set to the manufacturer's specifications on the polymer-clay package. Place the relief square on a baking sheet and place in the clay in the oven for the recommended amount of time. Remove the clay and allow it to cool completely.

7. Apply a thin layer of strong adhesive glue to the back of the relief-clay piece. Center the piece on one piece of plexiglass. Push the clay down firmly onto the surface and allow the glue to dry completely.

Tips & Warnings

• Any piece of paper can be embossed with your stamp after the cooling and hardening process is complete. Place the carved block on a flat surface with the carved image faceup. Place the paper over the block so the image is centered in the desired location. Place the relief block on top of the paper directly above the matched carving. Press down on the plexiglass to emboss the image on the paper.

References

• Rorta; Embossing - Tips and Techniques - How to Make a Raised Seal; September 2009
• Ragehaus: DIY Wooden Wax Seal