Basic Stamping using Clear Stamps

Clear stamps, also known as polymer or acrylic, are not permanently attached to block. The acrylic image needs to be attached on an acrylic block by simply placing the image onto the acrylic block. They adhere although there is no adhesive. Using clear stamps allow you to see exactly where you are stamping. They are perfect for lining up individual alphabet letters. We will learn about how to use an acrylic stamps, the tools needed, how to store and clean an acrylic stamp.



Here are a few simple steps to properly use your clear stamps:


1.) Use the side of your forefinger to gently loosen the image from the clear sheet. And then peel the stamp away from the clear sheet. You would need to be extra careful when peeling away designs that are more complicated such as flowers. If pulled too firmly, they can rip through the more delicate part of the design.

2.) Center the image on an acrylic block. You can use a ruler or straight edge as a guide to line up correctly.

3.) You are ready to use and ink your stamp with any color you desire. An advantage of using an acrylic stamp is that you can easily just see right through your block and stamp to see if you are obtaining enough ink. You would not have to constantly flipping your stamp over to see if it has enough ink just like when you are working with a wood stamp. Now place your image onto your project and apply an even downward pressure. Don't rock or wiggle the stamp so your image won't turn out blurry.



Tools Needed: Ink pads and Clear blocks



The only tools you are going to need are the stamps, an acrylic block and ink pads. Any type of ink will work on your clear stamps, but please note that these type of stamps tend to seep in ink and dye your stamps that color. If that happens, just remember to clean it properly after use so you can prevent it from happening again and you can keep using your stamps.

Acrylic blocks are specifically made for clear stamps. They come in different shapes and sizes to accomodate the stamp that you have. The blocks are clear so you can easily see through it. There are also blocks available with grid lines on them for easy lining of stamps especially when using alphabets.



How to Clean and Store your Clear Stamps



Clear stamps like any other stamps will last forever if taken care of correctly, allowing you to reuse them over and over again. Cleaning after each use with stamp cleaner will insure their longevity. There is a special cleaner for clear stamp called polymer cleaner and it works perfectly. However, do not use a polymer cleaner on your clear stamps if you are using StazOn ink. StazOn has a special formula that specifically cleans off their ink.



There are many ways to store your stamps. You can use a drawer and store your stamps flat. Just remember not to pu anything heacy on top of them or the weight can ruin your stamps. You can also use an 8 1/2 x 11" binder with pocket-page inserts and simply slide your set of clear stamps inside the pocket. By using this method, you are able to quickly and easily pull out the binder and flip through the pages to find the set you are looking for. And the rule of thumb with any stamps, always keep them out of sunlight and heat.



Tips and Techniques when using Clear Stamps



If you are using a new stamp for the first time, it is always a good idea to condition them before use. Simply ink up your stamps and stamp your image multiple times on a regular paper. This will allow your clear stamps to grab the ink you will be using.


Acrylic stamps work very well for everlapping images or stamping onto photos, stickers, chipboard or anything else where you need exact placement.


If the clear stamp isn't clinging to the ink you are using, clean off the stamp and use the back of a pencil eraser to gently erase your image. This will take off any film which will allow your ink to adhere fully.


If your image doesn't stamp clearly, you can re-ink the image and easily line it up again to fix any missed spots or mistakes.