How to Make Professional Rubber Stamps

Rubber stamps can be made in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Making professional rubber stamps is a fun crafting project and is cheaper than purchasing ready-made stamps. You can make rubber stamps without using special tools or equipment, while still achieving professional-looking results. Rubber stamps are versatile and can be used in a business setting or at home. They also can be used for decorating purposes, such as making greeting cards, decorating scrapbook pages or adding character to canvas bags and shoes.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber erasers
• Craft knife
• Wooden blocks
• Rubber cement
• Rubber stamp ink

Instructions

1. Draw a pattern that you like on the eraser using a marking pen. You will need to remember which parts of your design will be raised and which parts will be carved out. The raised portion of the design is the portion that will accept the ink.

2. Begin carving it out with your craft knife. Carve out the empty or blank space around the design. Carve out the bigger blank spaces before embarking on the intricate spaces.

3. Smooth away edges. Make sure the edges are completely smooth. Rub away the excess eraser bits to make sure that, when you ink up your stamp to use it, the stamped images do not contain bits of eraser.

4. Attach your bases. Turn over your erasers and evenly spread rubber cement over the entire surface. Attach your eraser to the middle of the wooden block and allow it to dry completely.

5. Test your rubber stamps. Ink up your stamps with your rubber stamp ink and conduct a few stamp tests. If you notice any unwanted lines or marks, fine-tune your eraser stamp with additional carving to remove excess eraser bits.

Tips & Warnings

• Store your stamps in closed containers to prevent them from cracking and drying out.

• Craft knives and cutting tools are very sharp. Use extreme care when using them, and if you cut yourself, seek medical attention immediately.

• Do not breathe in fumes from the rubber cement, because doing so can make you ill. Always use rubber cement and glue in a well-ventilated area. If you start to feel woozy or sick, get out of the room immediately and into fresh air.