How to Make Cards Using Stamp Pads
Ink is not just for rubber-stamping. Basic stamping techniques can provide a "wow" factor to note cards. Using a stamp pad to stamp is a technique called “direct-to-paper inking.” The technique might sound complicated, but it is simply applying ink directly from an ink pad onto paper. Using an inked stamp pad to stamp is an old favorite method to many, and has become an indispensable technique in card making.
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Instructions
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Use an ink pad that sits up slightly above its case for ease of ink transfer--1-inch ink pads are a suitable choice. Select three ink pads, one light shade, one medium shade and one dark shade.
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Remove the lid of the lightest colored ink pad and turn it upside down. If right-handed, hold the note card in the left hand and the ink pad in the right hand. Touch the card against the edge of the ink pad. Tap the ink pad around all edges of the card. Inking the edge of the card adds definition.
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Place the card on a piece of scrap paper to protect the tabletop. Gently tap or swipe the darkest colored ink pad onto the top of the note card’s face. The darker colors need a lighter touch or you will darken the whole thing too much.
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Stamp randomly leaving white areas in between stamped areas. Repeat with the second medium color stamping in different areas and different directions. There is no right or wrong way to impart the ink.
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Touch down the darkest shade ink pad carefully. Different looks come from the way ink pads are swished or dabbed onto the paper. Do not try to line up the side of the ink pad for placement. The ragged edge gives a vintage effect. Whether the ink pad is linen, spongy or smooth, tapping the ink will transfer the texture of the ink pad to the paper. Do not push down on the pad or there will be dark blotches of color.
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Lean the ink pad at a sharper angle, and increase the ink deposits on the paper.The amount of pressure used determines the pattern outcome. All strokes should be away from the body.
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Leave the design alone the moment it is appealing to the eye. Do not over stamp. Let the card dry thoroughly. Use a dark chocolate or black ink pad to stamp a single image or phrase on the card.
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Tips & Warnings
The direct-to-paper technique can sometimes be a messy. Wear an apron when inking.
Remember, pigment ink stays wet a long time and some dry only when heated. Use dye-based ink pads to minimize the wait.
Practice on a piece of scrap paper before starting to use this method on your project paper. Use a light, gentle touch. Practice helps teach how much pressure to implement.
New ink pads are thoroughly wet so use a lighter touch. In time, ink pads become dryer and need more pressure applied.
Keep baby wipes, and If fingers get inky wipe them on a baby wipe to keep from spreading the ink where unwanted.
Pads may come loose or tear with heavy use.
References
- Photo Credit greeting card image by Attila Toro from Fotolia.com
