Susan R. Opel
It’s pretty amazing that I have been scrapbooking since 1998, and I never really got all that into stamping. I certainly have admired all of the lovely stamps that manufacturers keep making, but it all seemed too messy – this coming from a former middle school art teacher who NEVER did a project with painting or paper mache (don’t worry – we did a lot of other really cool stuff!). But lately, things have been changing for me. What factors have been a part of that?
A. P. Kelly Smith – Paper Crafts magazine’s Online Editor Extraordinaire – Oh, Miss Kelly! Her cubicle is right behind me, and she keeps trying to prod me to give stamping a try. She tells me, “It’s so easy. It saves time. You’ll love it!” So I humored her and gave it a shot.
In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, I created a Celtic inspired hello card featuring a lovely Lil Davis stamp.
B. American Crafts – At CHA in January, I was walking the floor with Cath, and we came to the American Crafts booth (always a source of brilliant inspiration for me). And guess what they were doing there? STAMPING! And I was like – WHOA – if American Crafts is stamping, I think I am game. So I got my hands on some sparkly green Zing! (AC’s new embossing powder) and went to town!
I created this layout with St. Patrick’s Day in mind as well – thinking about all of the things I feel “lucky” about.
C. Stamp It! Cards – Probably the most important factor in getting me to want to give stamping a try is Stamp It! Cards. This special issue is so crazy COOL! The contributors really showed me that stamping can in fact be trendy and hip! There are so many inspiring designers in this issue, but I am blown away by the stamping prowess of Dawn McVey. I’m sure that you will find each and every one of her designs absolutely exquisite along with page after page of other dazzling designs.
Be inspired to the max by Stamp It! Cards.
So now that I am getting into the groove, what sort of advice can you give me as a newbie to ease me into the world of ink and stamps? Leave me a comment with some stamping tips for beginners, and you will be entered to win my Green Hi Card pictured above as well as this aptly named Lucky collection from Rusty Pickle.
Doesn’t this line just make you want to Riverdance?
Happy St. Patrick’s Day from your Scotch-Irish redhead-by-choice associate editor!
Susan
P.S. Our Stamp It! Week Challenge is off to a great start! Wanna play? To participate, create a stamped card featuring one of the following techniques:
Stamp Kissing
Build a Scene
Creating Patterned Paper with Stamps
Adding Color with Markers
Adding Color with Dye Ink Sprays
Upload your stamped card here from now until Monday, March 23. We’ll pick 10 winners (two per category) to win a fabulous prize package. Five winners’ cards will be shown on this blog and five will be shown on Moxie Fab World. AND once you upload your card, you can turn around and mail it into our Stamping Royalty card contest!
110 comments
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March 17, 2009 at 9:08 am
Oralia
What a CUTE card! If this is one of your first cards, WOW – my first attempts didn’t come anywhere close! =) Hmmmm, let’s see, a tip? Take one or two elements from a card you admire and create something from your supplies. The more you ‘practice’ the easier – plus more fun – it is!
March 17, 2009 at 9:14 am
sandee
Well I’ve only been doing this for a couple of months myself….my best advice…buy lot’s of ink..it’s addicting! lol Irish blessings to all!
March 17, 2009 at 9:18 am
Lynette C
As a beginner myself I just want to say just stamp your heart out. Try and try. And always try it out on scrap before landing the stamp on the actual work.
March 17, 2009 at 9:39 am
Nicole Maki
I just love stamping but it took me awhile to get into it too. Your card is amazing!
My best tip is to make sure you are using the right kind of ink for the project. Heat embossed pigment ink is great if you are planning to paint the image with watercolors as it provides a little edge to help you stay in the lines. You need a good dye ink if you are using alcohol based markers.
My favorite technique when stamping is painting with markers (any cheap ones will do). You just scribble your marker on an old CD and then pick up the color with a watercolor brush or wet paintbrush. For a lighter color use more water, for darker use less. Easy peasy. If you want to see more step by step instructions you can here.
March 17, 2009 at 9:45 am
AndreaT.
Have lots of small glorious details available to add to your cards. Invest in some pearls, rhinestones, glitter and buttons in lots of colors. Even if your card is quite basic, adding a beautiful detail will take it to the next level and make the recipient say “wow!”
March 17, 2009 at 9:48 am
Kyra
Wow, Susan! You and I are alike in our scrapbooking snubs stamps history. I too took the ‘plunge’ and I now rarely make a sb page that doesn’t have a stamp somewhere on it. Way to go!
~ky
March 17, 2009 at 9:49 am
Karen
Your cards don’t have to be loaded with embellishments to be beautiful. I love clean and simple cards. There are so many wonderful challenge sites on the web as well as individual blogs. Look around and see what looks to be your style. I love vi.sualize.us as a place to “store” the inspiration I find on the web.
March 17, 2009 at 9:52 am
Kyra
Oops – missed the “tip” part of your request. My tip is that you play. Stamp a lot of images on scrap paper, and practice coloring and using other techniques (like paper piecing). Head over the SCS (splitcoaststampers) and pour through the techniques section. Join any one of fabulous groups, and take the challenges to improve your technique diversity.
~ky
March 17, 2009 at 9:58 am
Rebecca
My advice : Stamp what you love! Stamp sets, paper, inks – choose the stamps, colors, papers that “speak to you”. Also … don’t be afraid to integrate stamping into all kinds of other crafts! And finally, have fun!
March 17, 2009 at 9:58 am
Jennifer Hansen
I am an extreme novice (although my stamp supplies may say otherwise) and about the only thing I have done so far is stamp the image and then cut out and pop dot for dimension.
March 17, 2009 at 10:09 am
Swedie
I would say look around and see what others are doing. So many times I get ideas from seeing others’ projects… and use them as a springboard to new ideas. Start simple and easy and you will begin to get more and more confident as you go.
March 17, 2009 at 10:11 am
Suz
I used to get so frustrated with stamping when I started out. So a couple things I learn are:
Use the right ink for the technique/material
Practice on a sheet of scrap paper
If it needs to be super precise use a Stamp a Jig tool (really great for getting image right where you want it)
Use a mouse pad under the paper it helps to get a better stamped image.
Experiment & have fun
March 17, 2009 at 10:13 am
liannallama
great projects! my tip is to hold the stamp on the paper when you stamp for a couple of seconds to get the best image. it helps the ink sink into the paper. lift up carefully so you don’t get blurry or double images.
March 17, 2009 at 10:17 am
Amanda Teel
I will case a card I like and try my best to ” copy” it, but in the end it looks NOTHING like the original and thats what makes it good!
March 17, 2009 at 10:24 am
Prairie Girl
I agree with what someone said above; make sure you use the right ink for the right stamp and the right technique. For example, dye & permanent inks were great with rubber stamps…pigment inks (which are juicier) work best with those clear stamps.
Another tip; may a stamp index binder by stamp set or stamp company AND by category (ex birthday…flowers…birds…journalling stamps). =)
March 17, 2009 at 10:30 am
Debbie Olson
You should see my beginning pages. when my girls look at them, they just laugh. me too. Just have fun and try different things. The JOY is in the JOURNEY!
March 17, 2009 at 10:31 am
Nancy L
I started scrapbooking about the same time as you! Well last year is when I started to make cards. I didn’t own any stamps and my scrapbooking supply was a little dated. Slowly I bought some stamps and embellishments. I would love a lot more, but I can’t buy everything at once! But my suggestion to you is vist all the great card makers out there to get lots of insipiration! Its a lot of fun!!
March 17, 2009 at 10:36 am
Heather Hopkins
My tip… Keep your favourite, most useful stamps in a basket right on your desk so you remember to use them and they’re handy. I have all my journaling stamps in one basket and another basket with the images I find I use the most often.
March 17, 2009 at 10:43 am
jeanie
make sure you place your stamping surface on even ground and once you’ve stamped an image, make sure not to move the stamp around so much so the image will not blur. also, after using, you can use wet tissues to clean stamps.
March 17, 2009 at 10:45 am
Maureen
It’s my birthday today and this would be a fabulous little gift
My advise for a new stamper is to use quality products for ink and cardstock. Also, look for inspiration from magazines and Splitcoast Stampers.
March 17, 2009 at 10:46 am
cards4ever
When inking your stamps it is best to place the stamp side up on a hard surface and ink it up. This insures that you have a even coverage on the stamp.
March 17, 2009 at 11:10 am
Jess
My advice would be to make sure you have quality ink and that you have a good stamping surface. Nothing is more frustrating then when your design doesn’t transfer. You’re projects are great!
March 17, 2009 at 11:16 am
Latisha
Simple is always better, when you are first beginning anything. I always stamp an image then stamp it off onto scrap paper to see how the image is taking the ink, especially new stamps, it takes a while before they are conditioned. I really like to use the ink cubes and dew drop sized ink pads, it makes it easy to have an even coverage on your stamp.
March 17, 2009 at 11:31 am
Lee Anne
Like you, I’m just getting into stamping, so my advice is limited! I’ll be very interested in reading all of the comments from others, and perhaps getting to use that great kit you are giving away!
March 17, 2009 at 11:41 am
Jamie P.
My advice would be to try a little at a time. I started with alpha stamps and went from there.
March 17, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Christina
I am a newbie at stamping too but you MUST get some clear blocks to use w/ the clear stamps. They are the absolute best & you see exactly where you are stamping. Embossing your stamped image is also tons of fun. Happy stamping!
March 17, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Robin R
I say, “Just Do It.” It is something I need to tell myself more often. Also, figure out a system that works for you in keeping track of what stamps you have and start using it with your first stamp.
March 17, 2009 at 12:17 pm
Julie, momto7
I found that buying mixed font stamp sets is a great way of stretching my scrapbook budget – lots of font options for low startup cost
March 17, 2009 at 12:18 pm
jodi
I’m more of a beginner, too. But I love to color my images in to make them unique – colored pencils, paint, markers, etc!
March 17, 2009 at 12:20 pm
laura j
Great card! My advice to the beginner is to have a good understanding of the different types of ink and how they are used. There are also plenty of blogs and website were you can find loads of tips, techniques and inspiration!
March 17, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Lindsay Spencer
I’m quite new to stamping myself. I’ve only been stamping for about a year now. And you should see my collection ALREADY! The way I got comfortable stamping was to paper piece everything. I was too scared to stamp right on to my project. So I’d stamp it on a separate piece of paper, then cut it out, and add it to whatever I was making. It made it easier to get started. Plus, it gives your project so much more dimension to have it “pop” off the page. I’m so addicted to stamps now, I can’t hardly make something without them.
March 17, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Shanon Gibson
Cute card!
My tip would be to use clear stamps so you can see the placement. I started buying clear stamps about a year ago and have not bought a wood one since!
March 17, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Tifany D.
I love green!
My stamping advice is from a beginner to a beginner
)
Use a thin mousepad or fun foam under your stamping paper to get a good impression. It has helped me out quite a bit.
March 17, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Janet B
My tip for a beginner is to be bold and experiment. It’s only paper, right? Try all different techniques, combinations and tools–you only learn from trying.
March 17, 2009 at 1:03 pm
Kathy Logan
my tip? Stamp with a friend! It’s always more enjoyable, and when you combine supplies, you have a LOT more options (especially as a beginner)
March 17, 2009 at 1:08 pm
Marge
I’m going to advise you to check out a particular stamp company to start with because you’ll never be sorry you own their stamps: Papertrey Ink! I know you’ll soon be in LOVE with stamping once you’ve tried them!!!
March 17, 2009 at 1:16 pm
Cassi
I think the key to enjoy stamping is to learn some basic “How Tos.”
1. Selecting the right tool, in this case, ink for your project. I reach for Versafine Inks over and over again. I always get a clean and crisp image.
2. Make it pretty. You can do this so many ways, but I like to add visual interest by stamping off the sides of the page. I also like to use Versamark ink to create my own watermarks, I also use this for when I emboss. Embossing is probably the easiest highest impact technique you can use in stamping, especially for a beginner ( I see you’ve already tried this — go AC).
3. When stamping with arcylic stamps be sure to get a foam pad to go underneath your paper. Mine is from Darice and cost like $4 — can’t beat it. This pad makes all the difference in the world with getting clean crisp images as it mimics the rubber mounting/cushioning traditional stamps have.
4. Go to the Hero Arts blog and watch some videos. You’ll pick up on things like how to get a good impression from a big stamp or just different ways to make sure the ink gets transferred to your paper. Here is a link to one that helped me notice some mistakes I was making:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3Bg5YHkWs8&feature=channel_page
Welcome and above all have fun!
March 17, 2009 at 1:51 pm
Kelly
Saw the Rusty Pickle grouping on Cath’s site–love it!
Now, about stamping: I’m a ‘mess avoider’, too, and i LO-O-OVE stamping! It’s just not that messy! Just keep wipes handy (or wear a pair of old jeans!) so you don’t handle a card with inky fingers. I try to buy stamps that I can use in a variety of ways–sentiments or pretty generic pictures (leaves, hearts, flourishes for birthdays, thinking of you, even anniversary or wedding cards). I like making card sets–using one stamp on 4 cards with 4 different colors of ink (think Andy Warhol). One stamp can go a LONG way!
Have fun with trying it out–and remember, JUST PLAY!
Kelly
P.S. If you want to talk ‘messy’, emboss with glitter embossing powder! (I did on a card for Stamping Royalty, and sneezed glitter for 2 days!)
March 17, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Marlena
What a beautiful card! my tip would be to have alcohol free baby wipes because they clean ink off stamps wonderfully and they help keep your hands clean.Have fun stamping!
March 17, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Debbie Peysen
My advice to you would be keep it simple. If you are a scrapbooker look at your paper and pick 3 or 4 sheets, some cardstock to go with it and a punch or two. Also if you are a scrapbooker, look at your embellishments to see if you would like to use any on your card.
Buy a stamp or two that are simple and can be used for more than one type of card. There are different stamps out now. To keep it simple, buy the wooden one with red rubber. With that type you are ready to stamp.
I always think that black ,dark gray or dark brown is the best color to buy for your first ink pad. There are so many ink pads out there now. For your first card, just buy one pad. I would buy Colorbox pigment ink. It does take a few minutes for this to dry but it is my favorite.
If your stamp has parts that need color, use color pencils. They are easy and give a good look.
I like the layer look so I usually stamp on a separate paper and cut out. Layer your paper and stamped image until you find a look you like. Glue stick all together on a card.
If you are like the rest of us, you will fall in love with stamping and spend all your money on the best hobby in the world.
debbie peysen
March 17, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Michelle (aka mybelle101)
I’ve been stamping for YEARS so it’s hard to think of ‘beginner’ tips, but I will tell you one item I’ve found I can’t live without, and I just recently bought it: a stamp positioner (like SU!’s Stamp-a-ma-jig). It’s fabulous for making sure an image is in just the right spot (great for layouts!), or my personal pet peeve, making sure sentiments are stamped straight…there’s nothing worse than having a card or LO almost finished, and then stamping the sentiment crooked!
And since you’re already embossing, I’d have to recommend first rubbing the paper with an embossing buddy, and then using either Versamark or Tsukineko’s Essential Glue pad, and making sure the pad is inked up really well, so that you get good adhesion of the powder to the image you’ve stamped.
Most of all, play, experiment, and ENJOY! Stamping opens up a whole new world of possibilities!
March 17, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Angel S.
Welcome! Once you stamp ou never go back! I suggest letting the stamp rest for a few seconds to set the ink before lifting. Have fun!!
March 17, 2009 at 3:13 pm
tape
With clear stamps, you may need to condition them before use by rubbing them with an eraser so that they’ll accept ink better. You may also want to stamp on a foam mouse pad to get a good impression.
March 17, 2009 at 3:14 pm
Robin O
My advice would be to not go to overboard on buying stamps til you get a feel for the type you like to use and to read lots of the stamping blogs and try the different techiques. I love the blogs that give step by step instructions. Finally just enjoy – stamping is very fun and addictive.
March 17, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Jill Swanson
Great work. My tip is to have fun. There are many places to get inspiration. Challenge yourself to try a technique, particular stamp, color combination, or papers to give you a starting point and then… CREATE. Jill S
March 17, 2009 at 3:21 pm
Chris S.
I don’t have an artistic bone in my body so you already have one up on me! Stamping has opened up a world of creativity I thought I’d never have. The artistry is in the stamp and all you have to do is get it on the paper in an appealing way. Voila! Family and friends are impressed.
You’ve already received some great advice. Mine is that any “boo boo” can be fixed. There are very few projects that I’ve abandoned over the years because an ink smudge can be covered with another inked image or glitter or embellishments or paper piecing or …the list is endless. AND the bottom line is your project is “handmade!”
Just wait until you start dreaming stamping.
March 17, 2009 at 3:30 pm
StampinCathy
Love the card.
My tip is to use good cardstock and ink. Try different techniques they are so fun and they always add a special touch.
Thanks for a chance.
Happy St Patty’s Day.
March 17, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Karen Borgeson
My advice is to stamps that you love…..If the stamps does not speak to you it is hard to create. I also started as a scrapbooker and not it seems all I ever do is stamps cards.
March 17, 2009 at 3:41 pm
Brooke
I like to keep it simple. I also find that just sitting down and playing works a treat for mojo and my sanity!! A fun idea is to use a stamp in way it wasn’t intended. Eg Use a flower stamp and see what else you can turn it into.
March 17, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Marlene
Great card! You don’t look like a novice to me at stamping. Although stamping isn’t my 1st style choice, I do like using the clear stamps & coloring them with Copics. My only advice would be to mat your images in different ways to set them off & embossing them really them POP. Happy Stamping.
March 17, 2009 at 4:22 pm
Angela
I just bought that issue of Stamp It! Had never even seen that mag before, but card making magazines are such a great resource and I use my back issues over and over again – that’s my tip for a newbie card maker!
March 17, 2009 at 4:39 pm
jan farnworth
As a lover of stamps i say buy some stamps get some cheap paper out and practice and just play with the colors. Try coloring them in with markers, use different types of ink. Heat emboss, stamp and cut out the images. All it takes is a few mins of play to get you addicted. Hope you have fun with your stamps as much as i do.
March 17, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Jessica
Well for a stampin’ newbie, your cards rock! Tips for starting out, hmmm, a big one would be not to get too overwhelmed with all the cool stamps or embellishments to the point where you have a hundred stamps and no idea what to do first. I recommend picking out a couple of stamps or a stamp set, a couple of different inks – maybe versamark or some giltter too – and just play around with those stamps. Try out different patterns and colors, and see what you can create. THEN…go out ando the same with the other 99 stamps you’ve hoarded
.
Jessica
March 17, 2009 at 5:04 pm
Katy Young
My advice is buy stamps that you love or inspire you! Your card looks great! It’s my anniversary and I’d love to win! Thanks for the chance to win! Love your blog!
March 17, 2009 at 5:12 pm
Cathy Green
My best advice: After you’ve inked your stamp, stamp onto a scrap piece of paper. Sometimes your stamp isn’t inked as well as you thought. This way you can see without wasting a good piece of cardstock. Another word of advice on the other end of the paper spectrum: Remember that it’s just paper. If you make a mistake in stamping, turn it over and try again. If you mess up that side too, get another piece and try again. It’s only paper. Good luck with stamping. I started about 10 years ago and it has become one of my favorite crafts ever. I think mostly because there is nearly instant gratification. With so many other crafts, they are days in the making. With stamping you can have a completed project in a very short while. Have fun! It’s definitely addictive! Cathy
March 17, 2009 at 5:29 pm
Lindsey
My advice: Just keep trying and play around with all different kinds of stamps. Many of my favorites stamps are not the ones that caught my eye when I first looked through a catalog, magazine, or store. Also, I get a lot of inspiration from seeing how other stampers have used stamp sets, so probably the best advice I can give is get some good magazines
and even search the internet a bit for good ideas.
March 17, 2009 at 5:50 pm
Cathy Groden
I love the texture and depth of your card. I like to stamp but I like the stamped image to be part of the card – I like the paper and embellishments to speak to me as well. Don’t be afraid to layer. My stamping tip would be to leave your stamp on your work surface and brig your stamp pad onto it. Most people bring the stamp to the pad and then the ink gets on the wood or acrylic surface. You can see if you have a full inked image this way as well.
Good Luck and welcome to the world of ink!
March 17, 2009 at 6:30 pm
Lee Cockrum
I am sure someone has already mentioned these ideas, but hey, why not say it again! Especially as there is a contest involved!!
Use the good quality paper for your stamped images. I still use less expensive paper for the main base of the card. But the better quality paper really does stamp better, and also comes out with much crisper edges when making a die cut or or using a punch.
I read TONS of blogs! And when I see cards that really “speak” to me, I try use materials at hand to emulate the features – color, design, layout that I am drawn to.
Finally, I also try to make “sets” of cards.. either similar or even exactly the same. This way you have a stash to mail out at a moments notice, as well as a nicely wrapped selection of various cards is a nice gift!!
March 17, 2009 at 6:50 pm
Cathy
One piece of advice : when inking up a large stamp, set it down face up and tap the stamp pad onto it, instead of the other way around.
March 17, 2009 at 6:53 pm
Jazy Girl
My tip would be to get some coordinating inks and papers and just play. Clear stamps are inexpensive, versatile and so much fun!
March 17, 2009 at 6:58 pm
Robbie
Love the card! Great idea with the ribbon. My advice – always use ribbon and add lots of bling!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Robbie
March 17, 2009 at 7:33 pm
Jaquelyn
Very cute card! I honestly can’t really help out with the beginner stamp tips…I’ve been papercrafting for about 4 years, and I own stamps, but I never do much with them…I’d love to win, though!
March 17, 2009 at 7:45 pm
Jen Dyson
Hmm…stamping advice? PRACTICE! Use what you have available, and then once you find something you like, stick with it! In the beginning, I started buying stamps just because they were stamps! Now, I know what my style is, and try to get things that are versatile, so I don’t use it once and then forget about it! I personally prefer wood mounted rubber, as it seems that is the best image print I can get. I don’t really like pigment inks, because I don’t always want to take the extra steps in embossing, or don’t want to wait to let it dry. I LOVE chalk ink because of the softness of it, and it is great for distressing. For clear stamps, I have to use staz-on or versamark with my other inks to get a decent print. Don’t smoosh the stamp too hard, and try to go straight up, and straight down without wiggling. Sorry if that seems like a book! That’s the best advice I can give based on my own experiences and personal preferences.
March 17, 2009 at 8:08 pm
maryD
Welcome to creating with stamps. My tip for you is when you want to use watercolors to color in your images then make sure you use a permanent ink like Stazon to stamp your image.
March 17, 2009 at 8:13 pm
AJ
my advice- case! it’s such a great way to gain inspiration-and usually, once you get going, all these ideas come flooding in!
March 17, 2009 at 8:19 pm
Cheri Howard
I love line art stamps to color as the focal point for my cards. But stamping an image and cleaning the stamp up is a pain in the patootie for me. So, when I get ready to stamp an image for the first time, I stamp several all at once so I only have to clean my stamp one time. I file the extra images in a clear plastic envelope (I have several & group images by theme) so I just have to pull out the image I want and color!
March 17, 2009 at 8:54 pm
SJ
My tip is to get a 1/4″ solid circle. There’s not too much you can’t “fix” with it. I also like to sponge color on cardstock. I often run the ink pad along the edges the card. It’s subtle but adds a nice finishing touch.
March 17, 2009 at 8:56 pm
txscrapddict
Love the card. The thing I had the toughest time with when I first started stamping was what was the proper amount of pressure to use when stamping. I found out the hard way that wood mounted stamps require a lot of pressure…especially with large stamps and acrylic stamps require a light touch. It took some mistakes and practice to get it right!
March 17, 2009 at 9:04 pm
Abby
Great card! I’m still learning to be a better stamper. One tip I have is if you are using a small stamp (say 2inches) and your block is bigger like 4×4, you can put the stamp in the middle and 4 smaller, random stamps at the corners so the block won’t wobble when you stamp. You just ink the stamp in the middle and not the outside ones. Hope that makes sense! Thanks for the chance to win!
March 17, 2009 at 9:16 pm
mangomomma
Don’t be intimidated by others. You will learn as you grow, just like you did with scrapbooking. I look back at my first cards & cringe, but I did it – i stamped it and mailed it. You will too! Good luck entering the inky world!
March 17, 2009 at 9:46 pm
Casey
Just use black ink and let the images do the work – you really don’t need fancy techniques to get great results. Try stamping over patterned paper, too!
March 17, 2009 at 11:07 pm
Samantha Welch
I love the card you made! It’s very appropriate for St. Patty’s Day. I think you’ll really enjoy the wide world of stamping. I used to not stamp at all until I started seeing the seriously cute clear stamps that manufacturers have been making. What started with an innocent purchase is now a full-blown obsession! Since you’re a beginner, I would start out with just the basics – a good stamp and a good reputable stamp pad. Nothing will turn you off faster than an icky stamp pad. Also, to add that special wow factor, raise your images up on foam dimensionals. Hope this helps!
March 18, 2009 at 12:06 am
Josiane
Welcome to the stamping world! I recommend getting a stamping mat to improve the quality of your results. You use a mousepad to try it out. HTH!
March 18, 2009 at 12:08 am
Toni
Oh wow! I tell some of the new stampers that I teach, “stamp first”. Stamp first before punching out, before gluing down, etc, etc. I think the one thing that has brought my stamping to a whole new level is participating in challenges. It stretches my boundaries and introduces me to new technique, sketches, color combinations! Oh and isn’t Dawn McVey just fabulous!
March 18, 2009 at 12:39 am
Heidi Van Laar
Well, seeing that I still consider myself a stamping newbie I’ll just talk about what has helped me to improve…
1. Starting with smaller images. Larger ones can be hard to get a clean impression.
2. Experiment with different inks. Pigment Ink, dye ink, chalk ink and alcohol based inks all work so differently on different surfaces so don’t be afraid to play around with them
3. Try using clear stamps. This trend is what finally convinced me to start stamping. I love the control of seeing EXACTLY where the image is going!
Love your card and the LO BTW!
March 18, 2009 at 3:31 am
SueB
My advise is “practice, practice, practice!” – think Nike, and “just do it!” tho’ you’ll probably find it’s addicting and never look back! I mainly stamp for the holidays and birthdays, but find I’ve been neglecting my other hobbies lately. So much to do, so little time!
March 18, 2009 at 3:32 am
Eveline van Heijst
Make sure you have all the basics to start with and make sure these are of good quality. Budget wise I go for clear stamps but be on the look out for good quality wood mounted stamps when they are on sale.
And last but not least: HAVE FUN!
Eveline.
March 18, 2009 at 3:45 am
Sonja H.
Great card!!! So are you hooked on stamping YET????!!
See how easy it was!
March 18, 2009 at 4:56 am
Dana
This is really your first take on stamping? Gorgeous! I am also all new to this stamping and paper crafting myself and very much inspired from magazines and the fabulous papertrey ink team. The most handiest tip I got so far is to “prime” the stamps, which means to softly rub them (e.g. with a common eraser) before the first use to make it more accepting to ink and to receive an evenly stamped image. Happy stamping!
March 18, 2009 at 7:00 am
KellyJean
Well, I’d say you’re off to a fantastic start, Susan! Your card and your page are just great! My tip: Always stamp STRAIGHT DOWN-STRAIGHT UP. Never rock the stamp back and forth in the ink or onto the paper. Most images have an “edge” around them. Therefore if you rock into the ink, you will pick up ink onto the edge. Then when you stamp, the edge will stamp along with the image thus distorting the image. Hope that is a good one! Keep stampin’ girlfriend!
March 18, 2009 at 8:13 am
krolski
Stamps add so much to cards and scrapbook pages. My tip would be to buy good quality stamps. You’re off to a great start!
March 18, 2009 at 8:27 am
Ruth Allmart
Loved your card Susan. You’re doing great! My tip would be make sure to invest in one of those cleaning pads like Stampin’Up sells and many other places too. They make life soooo much easier when it’s clean up time – just spray one side with a stamp cleaner, rub your dirty stamp on the pad and then rub it on the dry side and your all done. Happy stamping
)
March 18, 2009 at 9:08 am
Joann
Great card! I’d say my tip would be to have a soft padding underneath your paper as you stamp. That could be a mousepad, or something similar. Have fun stamping.
March 18, 2009 at 9:21 am
Angie {pricousins}
Stock up on Embellies & definitely CASE until you get the hang of layouts and sketches!
March 18, 2009 at 9:44 am
Marisa R
My tip would be to use a Stamp-a-ma-jig when using wood mounted stamps. Perfect placement every time!
March 18, 2009 at 10:26 am
Lianne Carper
As a fairly new stamper myself, I can say the best tip I can offer is to invest in a Stamp-a-ma-jig. Although it’s pretty much a must have for wood mounted stamps, I find that I use it with acrylics as well when I need perfect placement.
March 18, 2009 at 10:56 am
Linda
When I am preparing to use my stamps, I always do a pretest so to speak, so I know how much pressure I will need to use, plus it helps me to see if I have enough ink on my pad. Then I reink and stamp the image accordingly. Hope this helps someone.
March 18, 2009 at 12:24 pm
calonghorn
love the creations Susan! i am like you…a stamp novice
you are off to a great start!
melita
March 18, 2009 at 6:08 pm
Linda S. in NE
My hint to a beginning stamper would be to always stamp more than one image of the stamp you are using. You will be ready to make the next card with the same image without getting out the stamp, inking it up again, stamping, and cleaning. Also as others have mentioned, the Stamp-a-Ma-Jig is a wonderful product. A little hard to figure out, but try to have an experienced stamper show you how it works, and then it will make sense. And finally, get in the habit of cataloging your stamps right after you purchase them. They are addictive, and can accumulate faster than bunny rabbits, so don’t let them sit in a pile after you buy them. A Very Warm Welcome to Your New Hobby. Linda S. in NE
March 18, 2009 at 7:08 pm
jen shears
Have fun with it! You’ll discover what you like- and that will change and evolve just like your scrapbooking no doubt has!!
March 18, 2009 at 8:41 pm
christine
I can’t believe you’re new to papercrafting with your beautiful creations. When adding die cut or label letters to a card, I place them on a strip of blue painters tape to line them up before placing them on the card. If they are die cuts, I use a glue pen on them once i get them lined up. I don’t use this technique on layouts because I don’t know if it is acid free.
That’s my hint, except trust your instincts and don’t second guess yourself.
March 19, 2009 at 4:04 am
Joelyn
I have seen the spray mist on several blogs, but still need to get a bottle or two to try. I love the way it makes classy backgrounds, and think I could do that too. I also love the way you stamped over the spray and then misted it again. Beautiful effect!
Joelyn
March 19, 2009 at 6:42 am
TishSch
Alot of great tips and advice here already. All I can add is Practice, Practice, Practice. At first, I always stamped on something else and then cut it out and added it to my card or page rather than trying to stamp directly on the page. That way if I screwed it up, I don’t have to redo the entire card or page. As I practiced, got better, and more confident, then I started going directly to the card or page.
March 19, 2009 at 8:45 am
Lindsay
One piece of advice that I have is don’t stress if you get ink on your woodblock or stamps. It just leaves a reminder that the stamp has been “loved”. I used to fret over keeping my stamps clean. But you only live once and why not enjoy what you have ?
March 19, 2009 at 9:01 am
Maximize Your Stamps + MORE FREEBIES!! «
[...] Hi Card, Rusty Pickle’s Lucky collection and a copy of Stamp It! Cards from Tuesday’s I’m Kind of Green at This Stamping Thing post. Thanks to all who left comments and played along! [...]
March 19, 2009 at 10:27 am
silvia haynes
I LOVE to play with my glimmer mists!! I have used them on cards, scrapbook pages and sprayed flowers with them. I LOVE using the mist with masks.
March 19, 2009 at 11:12 am
Valonda L.
My advice, if you are just beginning stamping and are not sure how far into the hobby you want to go, start with some good basic supplies.
Tuxedo Black Momento Ink, VersaMark or other watermark inkpad, versatile images. And for colored inks, always a safe bet to go for hybrid inks like the Palette Hybrid Inkpads. Although I also consider my Ranger Distress Inks a staple item. And I wouldn’t want to try to create without my Ranger Craft sheet or my 3 favorite embossing powders: black detail, clear, and Walnut Stain Distress Embossing Powder by Ranger
Ok, got to stop now…by “basic” list could become a mile long because I use it all on a regular basis.
March 19, 2009 at 1:53 pm
Susan R. Opel
Hey, everybody! Thanks so much for all of the fabulous tips for me (and other newbie stampers). I’ll see what I can do!
We have a winner! KellyJean Gettelfinger of Sellersburg, IN, will receive my card, the Lucky collection from Rusty Pickle, and a copy of Stamp It! Cards. She’s pretty excited about it!
I was really hoping for 100 comments. Anyone have just two more tips for me???
Thanks for playing along, and stay tuned to the Paper Crafts Connection and Moxie Fab World blogs for our grand finale to Stamp It! Week tomorrow. You won’t want to miss it!
March 19, 2009 at 3:49 pm
sarah
hi susan, here’s one more comment to get you closer to the 100 mark. i am somewhat of a new stamper too and i LOVE using other people’s sketches. i don’t know how they come up with them but not having to come up with a layout helps with the process. i’m sure some of the other people mentioned this too. also, when buying patterned or printed paper, try to get a coordinating cardstock too, that way, you know you’ll have matching paper when you get home.
March 19, 2009 at 6:25 pm
Teri Frank
I’m famous for coloring an image then struggling (sometimes for days) to match the DP to my colored image – My advice is to pick the DP and THEN color image to match – it’s just too hard the other way round…LOL
Teri
March 19, 2009 at 6:32 pm
Karen Zabuska
Make sure when you are done with your ink pad you turn it over so it doesn’t dry out.
March 20, 2009 at 2:17 am
Marsha
Your work is amazing so I know your stamping will be too. Stamp sentiments, words, embellishments on your scrapbook pages. You are going to love making cards – use your layouts as patterns for your cards.
March 20, 2009 at 7:28 am
FrancineB
Since cards are very small areas, it’s important to make sure you’re lines are straight and even. Crooked lines are very noticeable since the area is small. Also, until you are more comfortable, keep it simple. Simple cards are very elegant so don’t feel like you need to fill the entire card front with stuff. Another tip, make a card front then, after decorating, mount to a white card base. This will keep all the brad legs, stitching, ribbon tails, ect., out of sight and gives your card a finished look on the inside and outside.
March 20, 2009 at 8:02 am
Freebie Friday - The Big One! « Paper Crafts Connection
[...] this week. From a wonderfully candid interview with designer Teri Anderson to Susan Opel’s “green” confession to an inspiring tutorial on dye ink sprays from PC Pro Alisa Bangerter, we’ve truly been [...]
March 20, 2009 at 8:10 am
Diana
My newbie advice would be- don’t be afraid to mix and match your stamp sets. Combine different elements and feels from different sets to make your projects interesting!
March 20, 2009 at 8:15 am
Lynne Phelps
Remember that new stamps may need to be conditioned first before they will take ink well. For the best impression, particularly on clear stamps, you may need to lightly buff the surface with a fine emery board. Others like to use a white eraser. This helps remove any residue left from the manufacturing process that might make the stamp repel the ink. If you condition it right, you should be able to use dye inks with your clear stamps and get great results!
March 20, 2009 at 11:02 am
debbi
ME TOO……..I just started stamping and am having a blast. One thing I like to do is stamp, cut the image out, and adhere to my card or page with pop dots. (Honestly I’m so new to it, this is my only tip)
March 20, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Chelle
my best tip is to CLEAN YOUR STAMPS! i spray a sponge with windex and just stamp the stamp on the sponge a couple times to clean it, then stamp it dry on a paper towel.
March 20, 2009 at 2:15 pm
jane t
I have used the same stamp to make a birthday, thank you, thinking of you, get well, and sympathy card. Some stamps are so versatile.
March 21, 2009 at 2:57 am
bluemoon
I would say, in the beginning, less is more. Try creating more with one stamp and bring out your versatility rather than have too many to choose from and not know what to do with them, or only making one style card. Don’t buy 10 of this or that, or everything under the sun, even if you take a class, buy in moderation, (1 or 2), and use it alot, play and test, before you invest in the rest. Learn and above all else ENJOY! Have fun!