One of the latest trends I’ve noticed is getting an antiqued look by adding flourishes and distressed looking elements to you pages. One to do this is add rub ons (see Adding Rub Ons). Another way to do this is to apply ink using Clear Stamps. Clear stamps are a huge improvement over rubber stamps. Why? You can see through the clear block to see exactly where the image will go.
To apply, peel the rubber stamp off the protective sheet and apply it to a clear block (trust me, it will stick). Then, rather than put the stamp in an ink pad, blot the ink pad onto the stamp. You get better ink coverage this way. I suggest practicing on scrap paper for the first time.
Some other inking techiniques:
- Layer multiple colors and stamps (shown in this Fancy Pants Design example)
- Use the 2nd generation of ink by first blotting off a layer of ink on scrap, then stamping on your page
- Use multiple colors on one stamp: use a sponge to dab on multiple colors for a more dimensional look
There are really lots of possibilities using these techniques. While buying a set of clear stamps may be an initial small investment, you’ll be surprised at how many different uses and looks you can get from just one set.
Paper: Fancy Pants Wildheart Dreamer
Stamp: Fancy Pants Bella Brush
