Copyright 2022 Naptime Crafts | Powered by Astra WordPress Theme, Clear stamps are unmounted and dont have a block for you to hold on to as you stamp. Be resourceful and use things around the house that can take the place of an acrylic block such as an ink pad lid or CD/DVD cases. I often get asked for recommendations on the best block sizes to choose when just starting out. However, do not fear. Do not worry about the size of your ink pads as you can repeatedly apply ink until the whole stamp is covered.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'christines_crafts_com-box-4','ezslot_5',140,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-christines_crafts_com-box-4-0')}; Now carefully place your stamp onto your card in the correct position and press it down firmly. Lets talk about a third benefit of these blocks. On orders over $150, do not use the host code and you'll earn host rewards yourself! When stamping cards it is also a lovely idea to stamp the envelope to match. If you notice some stubborn ink left behind, don't worry. Its quick and easy to grab one when Im switching between projects and needing to wipe off my blocks. Some optional stamping and crafting tools that you can get as you go through your journey are dies, stencils, alcohol markers, and watercolor pans. CLEAR STAMPS Widely available including from Amazon. These blocks are one of the most basic and essential tools for starting this hobby, and having the right sizes, shapes, and brand/style will make your life better. Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. There are several reasons acrylic blocks are the new normal. This groove makes the perfect resting place for your fingers, and it allows a nice firm grip with no effort. An acrylic block or a stamp block is a piece of thick clear acrylic. You can use them in the same way as any other stamping blocks but there are some clear advantages no pun intended!if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'christines_crafts_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_4',139,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-christines_crafts_com-medrectangle-4-0')}; This page contains affiliate linksmeaning I earn a small commission if you use those links at no cost to you. The small size is great for precision stamping and getting a good impression. Would you like to learn the proper care and storage of your stamps collection? Never press the ink pad too hard or tilt it from side to side when inking up your stamp. When attached to a clear block, clear stamps work similarly to traditional or wood stamps. Because they are made with plastic, they are susceptibleto distorting under extreme heat, such as in Arizona summers - where Scrapbook.com is located! Mini Catalog. Subscribe to get special offers, free giveaways, and once-in-a-lifetime deals. Because of plastic's transparent nature, the slightest alteration in color or opacity can stand out more than it does on red rubber stamps. Read more about them hereto find out what works best for you and your stamping fun! As you can see mine are clear but you can buy blocks with grids printed on them which can help you to align your stamps. Peel your chosen clear stamp off its backing and place it onto your acrylic block. All you need to do is search for clear hard plastic or glass that you can see through to use as a stamp block. Please see our full Terms and Conditions page for more. Last but not least, I want to share a few alternative items you can use instead of acrylic blocks if you dont have a block for some reason OR you want an even better option!! You place the stamp on the block and use it to press your image. If you have a choice of sizes use the one closest to the size of your stamp for ease of use. Altenew has a wide selection of high-quality, beautiful, and unique photopolymer stamps for every occasion, celebration, season, and event! Learn how your comment data is processed. You can assemble your whole design onto an acrylic block but I am going to show you how to assemble your design one element at a time. Here I have attached two as between them they say Best Wishes. The Stamparatus is a stamping platform that comes with two plates. Because they are made of plastic, they are not as durable as red rubber stamps or other kinds of plastic-based stamps like photopolymer. If you likes this article, you might likethese other articles from Scrapbook.com Stamps, Inks, & Card Making 10% OFF OR MORE + FREE Gift! Lets talk more about that for a minute. Now clean up your stamp unless you are about to use it again. You can add foam underneath to get a better impression if you need it on larger presses. Let me know in the comments below how you get on. April 2021 Paper Pumpkin Alternatives So Cool, How to Clean Acrylic Blocks in the Dishwasher with this Easy Trick, Cardmaking For Beginners - Complete Guide To Learn To Make Cards, 2020 January-June Stampin' Up! Firstly decide on your design and therefore which stamps you are going to use. This is normal and it wont affect the quality of the stamp. If you have children chances are you have a few blocks, Jenga, or scrabble pieces lying around. I dont expect you to take my word for it, so let me give you a few reasons why out blocks are the best. Today, stamping is considered an essential part of craft in the nation. Save yourself the heartache now and impress your friends with not only a beautiful stamp impression, but squeaky-clean clear stamps. Sign up for newsletters to get the best of the best - straight to your inbox! An acrylic block is solid and clear, so you can mount and see your stamp. I hope this was helpful, and I hope youll consider trying out Stampin Up blocks and/or the Stamparatus using the links below! Again, it will be a shot in the dark when stamping since it isnt transparent, but its flat and able to fit in my hand, and something I always have with my craft supplies. Works for me! Acrylic Blocks are Needed for Clear Stamping, 5. Box 445Butler, WI 53007-0445United States. If theres a product that isnt my favorite, I wont really promote it. Remember that if you positioned your stamp carefully on your block then you can use the block to line up with your card. Be sure to clean the clear stamp before pulling it off of the block to avoid getting any ink on your hands. A more important reason I love our blocks is because of how thick they are. up and away from my project. As long as you are regularly cleaning your clear stamps, you should not worry about some ink left behind - this is perfectly normal and will not alter your stamped images. The rubber feet of the We R Memory Keepers Precision Presses are especially helpful because you are able to get more even pressure on your step. Use code SHOPPING8AS at checkout. You can use specialist cleaners but I wipe mine with a baby wipe. This takes the guesswork out of it! Once you have nice blocks in your collection, youll definitely want a good place to store and protect them. How to Fold a Super Easy Origami Dog for Kids and Adults. Youll be able to create beautiful designs whether you can find your acrylic block or not. Re:Marks Cleaning Solution is great for not only clear stamps, but also wood and traditional rubber stamps, as well as rubber stamp die plates. If you do use it again straight away make sure you re-ink the stamp for good coverage. Please note, comments must be approved before they are published. We built this site to help you reach your crafting dreams, even if they are squeezed in during a nap. Today I would like to get back to the basics and talk about clear acrylic blocks for stamping and card making. The ink does not take long to dry so you do not have to wait long between stamps.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'christines_crafts_com-banner-1','ezslot_7',141,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-christines_crafts_com-banner-1-0')}; If you would like more detail to your design then you can use different colour inks on one stamp. ACRYLIC BLOCKS In this tutorial I am using blocks from Samantha K Crafts here in the UK. Blocks can be cleaned in the dishwasher with normal dishwasher detergent to get a really nice, deep clean. Wow, that was a lot of information about acrylic blocks. Phone:1-315-967-2003, MON-THU: 11 AM - 3 PM EST. They come in three sizes, meaning hands of all shapes and sizes can stamp images of all shapes and sizes. They are widely available including on Amazon. We recommend the 5-star Perfect Clear Acrylic Stamp Blocks. Remember to prep your photopolymer stamps collection before you start stamping away. INK PADS Huge range of pads available from most crafting outlets including Amazon. If you are using permanent ink to stamp with, like Stazon ink pads, you will need to use an archival ink cleaner to clean the permeant ink off your stamp. Its flat, thin, and fits in my hand. |. I wanted a green pot and yellow flowers so I simply applied the different ink pads to the different sections of the stamp. If you have stamps chances are you have ink pads. demonstrator! You only need to bring one or two of them when you travel or when you attend crafting workshops. Altenew has a wide selection of high-quality, beautiful, and unique photopolymer stamps for every occasion, celebration, season, and event! 5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy Clear Stamps, 1. Do you want to find out how to use acrylic blocks properly? Spray the solution onto a paper towel, and wipe away the ink from the stamp. Be the first to get your hands on our latest collection of innovative and versatile papercrafting supplies! Sew Stylish Fabric Coasters from Fabric Scraps in under 10 minutes! Space Savings Stamp sets can be stored in a slim container instead of a thick and bulky one. Will the stamp come with what I ask in the comment? Perfectionists rejoice! For a substitute choose options that have a similar design, so you can hold your stamp in place and see what you are doing. Ink pad lids, CD cases, and even heavy bottom drinking glasses will work as great precision blocks. Let us fill you in on some stamping tips and hacks for beginner crafters like you! No more wasting baby wipes and no more wasting your dollars! If you have glasses of water sitting around your craft room because youre always working in there, you can find some use for them. I havent thought of using clear stamps, and rubber stamps are so expensive. Sometime my blocks need a deep clean after a stamp party or Stamp Camp. Sometimes I get busy when trying to pack everything for a party or Stamp Camp, and I forget to pack my blocks! An ink pad lid will work as an acrylic block. This will ensure that the ink will cling nicely to the photopolymer stamp. If you have been stamping for a while, you probably dont need us to tell you about the basics. CLOTH to clean stamps You can purchase specialist cloths but I use baby wipes. Clear stamps tend to stain more than red rubber stamps, but it shouldn't affect your stamping impression as long as you clean the stamp after each use. Though there are so many other plus sides to using acrylic stamps - they are less expensive, easier to store, and easier to be precise with, it is important to remember that they need to be treated a little differently than traditional red rubber stamps. I have ordered a stamp, and I leave the name that I want on my stamp but nobody ask to me details about it . Jennifer McGuire has a fun and informative video on how to get a clear stamped image and avoid splotchy images HERE. It is super easy to use, even for beginner stampers. The Definitive Guide to Organizing Craft Supplies, 10 Ways to Use A Scrapbook Album (Without Scrapbooking), Everything You Need To Know About Slimline Cards. Now that Ive shared storage tips, lets talk about caring for and cleaning the blocks. also comes with paper, magnets, and foam for use with polymer stamps. Our focus is to help you. Blocks can be stored in baskets, containers, drawers, anywhere they are accessible and within arms-reach of your crafting table. Its very comfortable and allows more control over your stamping. These blocks are relatively lighter than wooden blocks and less bulky. Anna Helman, Independent Stampin Up! Demonstrator, The content of this blog is my sole responsibility as an independent Stampin' Up! demonstrator and the use of, and content of, the classes, services, or products offered on this blog is not endorsed by Stampin' Up!. showing you some different stamp platform options including MISTI. These are used for all kinds of craft projects including, If you want to find out more about the history, production, usage, and different types of, - These are your investments. The skys the limit. You can even combine two thinner pieces on top of each other to make a stronger thicker block. The MISTI platform opens and closes for you to place your stamp inside and close your stamp onto your paper. Acrylic stamps come in a sheet without a wooden base or block, like other stamps. Remember to prep your photopolymer, Always clean your photopolymer stamps and your acrylic block. A stamper without an acrylic block is akin to a painter without a paintbrush. Because clear stamps are typically on the sticky-side (they need to be in order to cling to their acrylic blocks), baby wipes and paper towels often leave residue on them, causing your stamped images to either not be clean and consistent, or the ink to bead up on the stamp - something none of us want to see in our impressions! On the other hand, the We R Memory Keepers Precision Press comes with rubber pieces on the bottom. Remove the clear stamp from the block and place it back on its original backing. in their tool kit! Disclosure: Nothing on this site should be seen as advice, research, or as a recommendation. Clear stamps, also known as cling stamps, polymer stamps, photopolymer stamps or acrylic stamps, are a see-through, cost-effective type of stamp ideal for crafting, journaling, scrapbooking and more. At the end of the day, the most important take-home about acrylic stamps is the usage of acrylic blocks. It often works best to lightly pat the ink pad onto the stamp for even cover and distribution. Although it will be a little bit of a shot in the dark as far as where you are stamping, it is a doable option. Obviously you will need some ink too! They come in an acetate sheet and need to be mounted onto something in order to use them. Clear Stamps Stain Easily - and That's OK, 3. Which method works better? Acrylic Stamps are typically less expensive, but not as durable as photopolymer. Some DVD cases are clear as well. Find them. Choosing the stamp platform option means not only will you have an acrylic block for clear stamps, but something you can use with your other stamps as well. Remove the acrylic stamp block to reveal your stamped image. A really nice storage option is a case that is made for your particular brand of blocks. Next time I go to the craft store I will have to go have a look at the clear stamps. I cant wait to get my new cling stamp from you. Another great alternative that Ive resorted to a few different times is the bottom of a drinking glass. It's best to keep them in a cool place to avoid the photopolymer or acrylic from melting in high temperatures. Clear stamps are unmounted - meaning no wooden block for your hands to hold as you press the image onto your paper. Are you a stamping beginner who is in desperate need of a quick lesson on how to use your clear stamps? Regardless of what you use to contain them, one thing you want to be sure of is that they wont bang into each other and scratch. Alternatively, baby wipes also make a convenient stamp cleaner. Press down firmly for a few seconds to allow the ink to stick to your stamping surface. Pick up the acrylic block and position the inked image into place. The best way to useclearstamps is with an acrylic block. We offer square and rectangular shaped blocks in a variety of sizes. If youre just starting out in stamping and crafting, I would recommend getting D (my favorite), B, H and C blocks. To start, remove your chosen photopolymer stamp from the acetate sheet and place it onto your acrylic stamp block. Some square blocks will stick to your stamps and make as good a stamping block as it does a building block. You can also see through the block and you will know exactly where your image is going to appear. Pingback: Cardmaking For Beginners - Complete Guide To Learn To Make Cards, Your email address will not be published. So, why the switch? Please email for quickest support. The year 2005 saw compressed sales for stamps for craft for the first time after many back-to-back years of exponential growth. My first idea is to use an ink pad. Stamp the inked stamp image down and firmly press all parts of the image onto the cardstock. If blocks need a better clean due to sticky residue or permanent ink, rubbing alcohol works great. Any acrylic block will work, but we love the Perfect Clear Stamping Blocksbecause they have etched grid lines - meaning you can get your stamp (or multiple stamps) lined up exactly where you want it. Cleaning clear stamps is a common cause for concern in the stamping community. If the stamp block you are using has grid lines, now is the perfect time to utilize those for exact placement. Now that youve got the basic stamping supplies, learned how to stamp with acrylic blocks, and proper care and storage of your crafting supplies, the next step is to find where to buy stamps online! Since no one is using them for their intended use anyway, give them a try as an acrylic block. It's the stamping block we've been waiting for! The Fiskars Easy Stamp Press comes with foam pieces on each corner. Comment below and let me know what other questions do you have about clear acrylic blocks for stamping? If you're a stamper or you're ready to learn more about thesatisfyingly addictive craft, clear stamps are a must within the industry! Clear acrylic blocks havent always been around in the stamping and crafting world. For one, I love the sizes and shapes of blocks that are available through Stampin Ups selection. Ill continue with much more detail as we go, but here is a video I created talking about many different aspects of acrylic blocks. Yes, they are so much cheaper! I recently shared my trick for giving blocks a really good clean in my blog post, How to Clean Acrylic Blocks in the Dishwasher with this Easy Trick. However, it's vitally important to know and remember that clear stamps must be stored in cool places. Clear acrylic blocks, in general, are revolutionary to stamping, as you can literally see the paper through the acrylic block - meaning perfect placement every time. Include an image for extra impact. This is one of the best substitutes I have found for acrylic blocks if you desperately need something. If you really want a custom block you can always make one yourself. Clear Stamps Need to Be Stored in a Cool Place, 2. Here are some advantages of using an acrylic block: Easy peasy, right? You've got $12 OFF shipping! New photopolymer stamps tend to be sticky so they need to be seasoned first. Now the stamp is ready to be inked and rotated back on top of the project. You've earned FREE SHIPPING. They come in different sizes and have grids that make it easy to measure or line up your stamp. You can learn everything you want to know about theStampin Up Stamparatus using this link to reach a detailed blog post and video I shared recently. What a great idea! They come in different sizes and have grids that make it easy to measure or line up your stamp. When stamps are mounted on wood blocks, you cant tell exactly where youre stamping, but with acrylic blocks, you know where you will stamp every single time. After you cover your stamp with ink, press down to get your image impression. Though there are various methods that work best for various people, there is a tried and true method that nearly all stampers agree on - and that's the stamp shammy. If you want the best, handiest acrylic block alternative that will save you time, paper, and hours and hours of frustration, then let me introduce you to the Stamparatus. All orders earn reward points towards free stamps of your choice! They are a strong, clear block used as the base to which to mount rubber and photopolymer cling stamps. Thank you for your support! To do this, place the acrylic stamping block (with the stamp attached to it) on a solid surface. Your email address will not be published. Using the solution with a stamp scrubber pad adds a little extra thoroughness. So you might be pondering how to use clear stamps without an acrylic block. Now that youve got the basic stamping supplies, learned how to stamp with acrylic blocks, and proper care and storage of your crafting supplies, the next step is to find, ! You can read more about this top tool for stampers here, but essentially, it's a tool that not only cleans your stamps, but is also reusable - meaning one time purchase! Would you like to learn the proper care and storage of your. Lets start by talking about advantages of using acrylic blocks compared to their predecessorswood-mount stamps. Your email address will not be published. Its good to keep a variety of sizes for different-sized stamp designs. You may need to get creative if you find yourself with stamps that dont come with acrylic blocks. These stamps stick to clear acrylic blocks and allow you to see through for exact placement. Photopolymer Stamps are higher-quality material and more durable over time. This article may contain affiliate links which pay a commission and support this blog. The closer in size to the stamp your substitute is the better.