Using acrylic blocks for stamping is a straightforward process that allows you to easily handle clear or cling stamps and apply even pressure for clean impressions.
Here's a simple breakdown of how to use them:
Understanding Acrylic Blocks in Stamping
Acrylic blocks are essential tools for rubber stamping, specifically for use with unmounted stamps like clear photopolymer or cling rubber stamps. Unlike traditional wood-mounted stamps, these stamps are flexible and need a rigid surface to be held onto. The clear nature of acrylic blocks also allows you to see exactly where you are placing your stamp on your paper.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stamping with Acrylic Blocks
The process involves attaching your stamp to the block, inking it, and then transferring the ink to your paper.
Here are the basic steps:
- Choose Your Stamp: Select a clear or cling stamp you want to use.
- Attach Stamp to Block: Peel the stamp off its backing sheet. Place the smooth side of the stamp onto the smooth, flat surface of the acrylic block. The stamp should adhere easily to the block without needing adhesive.
- Ink the Stamp: Hold the block with the stamp attached. Tap the stamp surface onto an ink pad. Ensure the entire surface of the stamp that will make contact with the paper is covered in ink. Based on the reference: You "precedent to your ink" by pressing the stamp onto the ink pad.
- Position and Stamp: Hold the acrylic block over your paper or surface where you want to stamp. Since the block is clear, you can see through it to align the stamp perfectly.
- Apply Pressure: Once positioned, press the block straight down onto the paper. Apply firm, even pressure across the entire block to ensure all parts of the stamp make contact with the paper.
- Lift the Block: Lift the block straight up off the paper. Based on the reference: You "just press it onto the paper. And there you go".
- Clean Up: Remove the stamp from the acrylic block (it peels off easily) and clean both the stamp and the block using a stamp cleaner or soap and water before the ink dries. This prevents ink build-up and keeps your supplies in good condition.
Tips for Success
- Even Pressure: Applying consistent pressure across the block is key to getting a clear, complete image. Avoid rocking the block.
- Choose the Right Block Size: Match your acrylic block size to your stamp. The block should be large enough to comfortably hold the stamp but not so large that it's difficult to handle.
- Getting Familiar: As the reference suggests, the best way to get comfortable with the process is practice. "The only way to get familiar" is by doing it repeatedly.
Summary of Stamping Process
| Action | Description |
|---|---|
| Attach | Place clear/cling stamp onto acrylic block. |
| Ink | Press stamp onto ink pad to cover the surface. |
| Position | Use clear block to see where to stamp. |
| Stamp | Press block firmly and evenly onto paper. |
| Lift | Remove block straight up. |
| Clean | Clean stamp and block immediately. |
By following these steps, you can effectively use acrylic blocks to achieve crisp, professional stamped images on your paper crafting projects.
