Find them. 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. Ink pad lids, CD cases, and even heavy bottom drinking glasses will work as great precision blocks. How to Make a Cute Denim Apron from Old Jeans (Sew and No-Sew Versions)! Required fields are marked *. 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. So you might be pondering how to use clear stamps without an acrylic block. Would you like to learn the proper care and storage of your stamps collection? Are you a beginner card maker looking for basic start-up tool ideas or just someone trying to navigate the world of crafting? The precision press is a great option to create cool stamping techniques with multiple stamps at a time. So when I say our blocks are the best, its because I think they are the best on the market. This groove makes the perfect resting place for your fingers, and it allows a nice firm grip with no effort. Not sure which sizes youll need for a particular stamp set? They come in an acetate sheet and need to be mounted onto something in order to use them. We built this site to help you reach your crafting dreams, even if they are squeezed in during a nap. To use them, just peel yourclearstamp off the acetate sheet is came on, wash it with your stamp shammy to remove any potential leftover chemicals or coatings from the manufacturing process, then dry and press onto your acrylic block. However, it's vitally important to know and remember that clear stamps must be stored in cool places. 5 Things You Need to Know Before You Buy Clear Stamps, 1. 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. also comes with paper, magnets, and foam for use with polymer stamps. Comment below and let me know what other questions do you have about clear acrylic blocks for stamping? You will need something to hold your stamp in place, so the key is to find a substitute that works as well as an acrylic block. Speaking of drinking glasses, you can also find round or square coasters that are made from wood or thick plastic. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","a883dfb80d0048c81792f6633b25b231");document.getElementById("j400794303").setAttribute("id","comment"); if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'christines_crafts_com-large-leaderboard-1','ezslot_2',123,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-christines_crafts_com-large-leaderboard-1-0')};report this adAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Works for me! You can use them the same way as a press, platform, or block depending on the size of your stamp. I cant wait to get my new cling stamp from you. Carefully pick the stamp straight up away from the card so as not to smudge it. It is easy to clean. We have this really nice Storage Caddythat I keep my blocks in, especially when traveling and going to stamp parties. From 1996 through 2004, the sales of different types of stamps online have profusely increased across the United States. It's the stamping block we've been waiting for! 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. Do you want to find out how to use acrylic blocks properly? What a great idea! Having a couple of stamps for craft from different categories or themes should be enough. Thank you for your support! Simply place the stamp on your paper where you want it to be located, then rotate the Stamparatus plate over to adhere it to the stamp. In this case I have used a small leaf stamp to embellish the envelope.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'christines_crafts_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_8',142,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-christines_crafts_com-large-leaderboard-2-0')}; If you prefer to watch crafts and learn then please watch this video of me using my clear stamps and acrylic blocks. The bottom of the glass is flat AND I can see through it to see where the stamp will be placed. 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! If youre just starting out in stamping and crafting, I would recommend getting D (my favorite), B, H and C blocks. A clear stamp offers precise impressions with its transparent photopolymer or acrylic construction. You can use specialist cleaners but I wipe mine with a baby wipe. Stamp the inked stamp image down and firmly press all parts of the image onto the cardstock. How to Easily Change Magazine pages into Stylish Parcel Bows in Minutes, Best 27 DIY Christmas Tree Decorations (for all ages and all budgets). Watch the video to see the Precision Press in action. We offer square and rectangular shaped blocks in a variety of sizes. Disclosure: Nothing on this site should be seen as advice, research, or as a recommendation. For everyday cleaning, my go-to is baby wipes. Ill continue with much more detail as we go, but here is a video I created talking about many different aspects of acrylic blocks. Get exclusive access to discounts and promotions. Learn how your comment data is processed. Never tilt your block from side to side while pressing on it. Because they are made with plastic, they are susceptibleto distorting under extreme heat, such as in Arizona summers - where Scrapbook.com is located! If you have a choice of sizes use the one closest to the size of your stamp for ease of use. This is one of the best substitutes I have found for acrylic blocks if you desperately need something. You can store clear stamps by replacing the sticky back onto the backing sheet. The year 2005 saw compressed sales for stamps for craft for the first time after many back-to-back years of exponential growth. away from dusty places because dust might cling onto it, this will make it hard for you to get a clear and crisp impression. Take the ink pad to the stamp and gently tap it over the stamp to ensure that the whole stamp design is inked up nicely. Will purchase Marks Cleaning Solution. Presses are also square or rectangular allowing you to line your stamp up evenly. Remove the acrylic stamp block to reveal your stamped image. Stamp platforms, stamp presses, and everyday household items will work as stamp blocks. Their edges are rippled, creating a block that is comfortable and easy to hold. Easy peasy, right? Some optional stamping and crafting tools that you can get as you go through your journey are. Here is a video showing you some different stamp platform options including MISTI. It is super easy to use, even for beginner stampers. Perfectionists rejoice! Photopolymer Stamps are higher-quality material and more durable over time. Altenew has a wide selection of high-quality, beautiful, and unique photopolymer stamps for every occasion, celebration, season, and event! Find them HERE. Clear stamps are unmounted - meaning no wooden block for your hands to hold as you press the image onto your paper. Do not allow it to move about at all or your image will be smudged. in their tool kit! The Fiskars Easy Stamp Press comes with foam pieces on each corner. There are a ton of different things you can use when youre in a pinch and need something to substitute as a block. Make sure you store your clear stamps in a cool place, out of direct sunlight and high heats in order to ensure that no warping, melting, or distortion takes place! Most photopolymer stamps will get stains from inks. You may need to get creative if you find yourself with stamps that dont come with acrylic blocks. Just remember it needs to be flat and thin. As a beginner in stamping, having a few decent, high quality, and versatile stamp sets is essential. CARD Good quality card stock to print onto. So you might be pondering how to. Entice customers to sign up for your mailing list with discounts or exclusive offers. There are many different companies that sell acrylic blocks for stamping, and there are also quite a few different styles of blocks. Another option I have used is a punch. 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. Some of the things you might already have around the house or your craft room will work just as well as any product you can buy. 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! Today, stamping is considered an essential part of craft in the nation. Below is a list of those sizes. At the end of the day, the most important take-home about acrylic stamps is the usage of acrylic blocks. Im sure Im not the only one who has experienced this, so lets talk about alternative items you can use instead of an acrylic block when stamping. Do you want to find out how to use acrylic blocks properly? Lets start by talking about advantages of using acrylic blocks compared to their predecessorswood-mount stamps. We empower you to make beautiful, meaningful, handmade creations. The skys the limit. Just use the code HAPPY8AS at check out. Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We aim to be your crafting pal! How do you clean clear stamps? The closer in size to the stamp your substitute is the better. Subscribe to get special offers, free giveaways, and once-in-a-lifetime deals. Like I said, there are several sizes of blocks available from Stampin Up. Acrylic stamp blocks serve as the platform for your photopolymer stamp. Blocks can be cleaned in the dishwasher with normal dishwasher detergent to get a really nice, deep clean. Learn more HERE. So, why the switch? If you have CD and DVD cases lying around this is a good way to get some use out of them. I think Hobby Lobby has a whole roll of them but Ive never really looked at them. However, if youre completely new to stamping, there are a few essential supplies that you need to have in your crafting stash. Clear Stamps Stain Easily - and That's OK, 3. Now the stamp is ready to be inked and rotated back on top of the project. The Stamparatus is a stamping platform that comes with two plates. Sometimes I get busy when trying to pack everything for a party or Stamp Camp, and I forget to pack my blocks! Some acrylic stamps do not react well over extended periods of time with StazOn inks. We know that personal, delicate touches of a hand-made card or scrapbook page can bring joy to people that are important in our lives and we are proud to create products that help inspire alluring projects/creations. Pingback: Cardmaking For Beginners - Complete Guide To Learn To Make Cards, Your email address will not be published. You can even combine two thinner pieces on top of each other to make a stronger thicker block. Do not panic! Make sure you only get ink on the stamp and not the acrylic block. Here I have attached two as between them they say Best Wishes. Would you like to learn the proper care and storage of your. 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. Usehost code: J799T23YPLUS, with your first order, youll receive free catalogs in your thank you package! When stamping cards it is also a lovely idea to stamp the envelope to match. You place the stamp on the block and use it to press your image. As they continue to rise in popularity, more and more companies are releasing incredible designs for stampers of all tastes. I only recommend brands I use and trust. Read more about them hereto find out what works best for you and your stamping fun! This is the most important part of owningclearstamps. You can also see through the block and you will know exactly where your image is going to appear. There are several reasons acrylic blocks are the new normal. ACRYLIC BLOCKS In this tutorial I am using blocks from Samantha K Crafts here in the UK. If theres a product that isnt my favorite, I wont really promote it. Once you have nice blocks in your collection, youll definitely want a good place to store and protect them. For a substitute choose options that have a similar design, so you can hold your stamp in place and see what you are doing. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Some DVD cases are clear as well. Clear acrylic blocks for stamping are exactly what they sound like, acrylic blocks. To use the stamp presses, place your stamp down and push the press onto it to pick them up. Youre probably thinking, Well sure she has to say that because she sells SU products. Nope. Awesome! Lets talk about a third benefit of these blocks. Another question I often receive is how acrylic blocks should be stored. Here are a few options to use instead of acrylic blocks. If the stamp block you are using has grid lines, now is the perfect time to utilize those for exact placement. The MISTI platform opens and closes for you to place your stamp inside and close your stamp onto your paper. up and away from my project. Lets look at a few. This will also help the ink cling better onto the stamp. I often get asked for recommendations on the best block sizes to choose when just starting out. My absolute favorite blocks are made by Stampin Up! 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. Which method works better? Join me, and lets talk about these things plus storage ideas, cleaning options, and more! To start, remove your chosen photopolymer stamp from the acetate sheet and place it onto your acrylic stamp block. Dont be afraid to use different shapes and sizes to give you what you need for your stamps. I want to know something. Cost Savings You no longer have to pay for each and every stamp to be mounted onto a wood block. I mentioned that I really like the size options we offer in our blocks. - Also known as stamping block, a stamp block, or an acrylic stamp block, this is your secret weapon. Are you a stamping beginner who is in desperate need of a quick lesson on how to use your clear, ? Acrylic stamps come in a sheet without a wooden base or block, like other stamps. Use code SHOPPING8AS at checkout. When ordered as a bundle, youll save 10%! I havent thought of using clear stamps, and rubber stamps are so expensive. In comparison to the stamp platform, you may find that you get better impressions with a stamp press because you arent stamping at an angle. They come in three sizes, meaning hands of all shapes and sizes can stamp images of all shapes and sizes. 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. Do you fancy stamping but find that rubber stamps are just too expensive? If you use markers instead of ink pads then this will be easier but I have no experience of doing that. Remove the clear stamp from the block and place it back on its original backing. Sometime my blocks need a deep clean after a stamp party or Stamp Camp. You've got $12 OFF shipping! Because they are thick, they keep my fingers (usually covered in ink!) Their un-mounted constitution is desirable - it makes it possible to not only see exactly where you are stamping on your paper, but it also makes them more inexpensive to manufacture and ship, making them more affordable to you - the stamper! CLEAR STAMPS Widely available including from Amazon. 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. |. re Cleaning Clear Stamps -- Just found the answer to my question on your tutorial. If you have children chances are you have a few blocks, Jenga, or scrabble pieces lying around. Today I would like to get back to the basics and talk about clear acrylic blocks for stamping and card making. If you really want a custom block you can always make one yourself. Please email for quickest support. Less fingerprints on my card and scrapbook pages = big win for the home team! 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. Save up to 45% off on our Weekly Sale collection including stamps, dies, inks, markers, and more! This takes the guesswork out of it! Press down firmly for a few seconds to allow the ink to stick to your stamping surface. comes with foam pieces on each corner. Once you find your alternative, press down on the stamp to connect it to your substitute block and stamp away. You can use a rag with a little rubbing alcohol on it, or an individually packaged alcohol pad (available with first aid supplies) works great too. If blocks need a better clean due to sticky residue or permanent ink, rubbing alcohol works great. Unlike rubber or wooden stamps for craft, clear acrylic stamps dont have their own block or platform. 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. Yes, they are so much cheaper! demonstrator! Here are a couple of the cards I have made using stamping and, of course, you can combine stamping with other card making skills.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'christines_crafts_com-leader-1','ezslot_9',143,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-christines_crafts_com-leader-1-0')}; If you are interested in some different card making ideas then check out my other tutorials: I hope that you enjoy your stamping and find the clear stamps and acrylic blocks an affordable way of accessing this enjoyable craft. A slightly tacky texture helps ink stick to even the most detailed designs. My Favorite Reason You can see exactly where youre stamping! If you do use it again straight away make sure you re-ink the stamp for good coverage. These stamps stick to clear acrylic blocks and allow you to see through for exact placement. CLOTH to clean stamps You can purchase specialist cloths but I use baby wipes. You really only need something clear and plastic that the acrylic stamp can connect to. Although it can be a little bit of a tricky question, and different for everyone depending on the stamp sets you have, I do have some of my favorites that I use all the time. Thats the effect we want to achieve! New photopolymer stamps tend to be sticky so they need to be seasoned first. When looking at a Stampin Up catalog or shopping online, recommended block sizes will be listed for each stamp set. 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. The Definitive Guide to Organizing Craft Supplies, 10 Ways to Use A Scrapbook Album (Without Scrapbooking), Everything You Need To Know About Slimline Cards. A more important reason I love our blocks is because of how thick they are. These will help you line up your stamp image nicely on your paper or cardstock, especially when youre doing stamp layering. In addition, use the host code below to get a free gift with your order! Cleaning clear stamps is a common cause for concern in the stamping community. Heres a helpful tip! It is travel-friendly. I have ordered a stamp, and I leave the name that I want on my stamp but nobody ask to me details about it . You can buy clear stamps very cheaply and then you can buy one set of acrylic blocks and away you go. If youve used up your acrylic blocks, lost them, or just dont have any you can still stamp away using alternatives. Remember to prep your photopolymer stamps collection before you start stamping away. 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. This is normal and it wont affect the quality of the stamp. - these are some of the inks that stampers commonly use for their crafts. To do this, simply grab a rubber eraser and rub it all over the stamp. Are you looking for Craft room organization, crafting ideas or inspiration? Acrylic Blocks are Needed for Clear Stamping, 5. I hope this was helpful, and I hope youll consider trying out Stampin Up blocks and/or the Stamparatus using the links below! This will ensure that the ink will cling nicely to the photopolymer stamp. Twist Offs Frame by ExcelMark Directions. If I promote something, its because I love it. 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 dont expect you to take my word for it, so let me give you a few reasons why out blocks are the best. An ink pad lid will work as an acrylic block. MISTI stamp tool also comes with paper, magnets, and foam for use with polymer stamps. You can just use wet wipes or a damp piece of cloth to wipe off the ink residue. Alternatively, baby wipes also make a convenient stamp cleaner. All orders earn reward points towards free stamps of your choice! 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, ! Another great alternative that Ive resorted to a few different times is the bottom of a drinking glass. It has a nice handle, a latch to hold it closed, and foam inserts with a place for each size of block. 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!. SCORE! Some square blocks will stick to your stamps and make as good a stamping block as it does a building block. Let me know in the comments below how you get on. Altenew has a wide selection of high-quality, beautiful, and unique photopolymer stamps for every occasion, celebration, season, and event! Thanks, Please note, comments must be approved before they are published, P.O. Season or prep new stamps by rubbing a white eraser all over them. How to Fold a Super Easy Origami Dog for Kids and Adults. Include an image for extra impact. Clear acrylic blocks havent always been around in the stamping and crafting world. Now that Ive shared storage tips, lets talk about caring for and cleaning the blocks. Well talk about that next. Theres always a size or shape to fit my stamps. 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. Try whatever you have that will fit your stamp and that you feel comfortable pressing down firmly on. Many of you are experienced crafters, and I have a feeling that you can learning something from this post as well. Many blocks have grid lines to help you with exact placement, or even to place multiple stamps on one block at a time. You've earned FREE SHIPPING. When you turn the blocks to the side, youll notice a groove. 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.