Instructional Videos courtesy of Pink Cat Studios

	Working with Unmounted Rubber Stamps This video demonstrates two ways you can use your unmounted rubber stamps with acrylic blocks. The video discusses using EZMount foam and double-sided tape.
	Storing Unmounted Rubber Stamps This video demonstrates three ways to store your unmounted rubber stamps. The video discusses using CD cases, laminated storage panels and plastic baggies.

 PHOTOGRAPHIC STAMPS  

So, you've purchased your first photo type stamps.  Now what do you do?  

These stamps require a little special attention.  Because of the detail you need to treat them a little differently.

First, stamps have a coating on them from the manufacturing process.  There is a release paper used in between the piece of rubber and the metal plate, to help removing the image.  You need to get this off.  You can stamp the image a few times and then clean it, you can wash with soap in the sink, you can use a light sandpaper.  You need to do this or you won't be happy with the results.

If you bought an unmounted image, you need to ensure you have some cushioning either under the image or stamp into something cushioned (such as a mousepad, kid's funfoam or a magazine).  Now your image is clean and you are ready to go; what to do?

A couple of key points:  Initially you want to use dye ink pads and glossy paper. Later on you may want to experiment with alternatives, but initially keep to these.  A black ink pad or brown (sepia or art print) are some favorites. I ink up my image using a brayer; this helps get an even coating of the ink.  I brayer in each direction and on an angle.  Take your image to the paper; walk around the stamp with your fingers to transfer all the ink (yes, it is possible to put too much pressure, this will come with practice).  I then pick up the image and the paper, and rub the back of the paper gently with my hand, again, to ensure all the ink transfers.  The next thing is important; normally you pick your image up off the paper.  With these images you want to peel the paper off, almost like a banana, to help again with the transfer of the ink.

Take a look at your results; see little lines or dots?  Check your image; do you have a cat?  Yep, cat hair will stick like glue.  So will glitter or any other sniglet in the air.  Use a piece of tape to ensure the stamp is clean before brayering.  Stamp clean but still having a problem?  You probably have stuff on your stamp pad or your brayer, and are transfering them onto the clean image.  Don't give up!  Once you get it you'll love the results!

And have fun!