Ink stamps are one of the many craft supplies that really add that something extra to your scrapbook layouts. It is important to have the correct materials to hand before you begin stamping your scrapbook paper.
It is always advisable to test your stamp and your scrapbook page ideas before applying the design to your actual project. This way if you are not happy with the result your original scrapbook page will not be ruined. Always apply the ink to your stamp by gently but firmly taping the ink pad onto the rubber stamps as this will ensure a more even coverage. If you press the stamp onto the ink you may find unwanted ink is applied to the edges of the stamp. For best results make sure you are using a hard flat surface.
When you apply rubber stamps to the paper to create your image, be careful not to rock the stamp and keep your hand as steady as you can. Press all areas of the stamp and gently lift the stamp off in an upwards motion to avoid smearing your scrapbook page. Do not touch the stamped image until you are sure it is dry as this will cause it to smudge. You can also emboss the image or heat it with a heat tool to speed up the drying process.
If you are new to rubber stamping I would recommend you purchase rubber stamps that you can use over and over again. Alphabet and background stamps being the most common rubber stamps can be used for numerous ideas for scrap booking pages. Rubber stamps come in different forms, mounted and unmounted. A mounted rubber stamp is usually mounted onto wood or an acrylic block. Although mounted stamps may cost a little more they are ready to use and perfect for creating scrapbook page layouts if you are new to stamping.
If you are going to stamp onto different surfaces then make sure you have the correct ink as some surfaces especially if they are shiny will need a permanent ink.