Stamping 101

          Today we are going to discuss the basics of stamping.  When you get your new stamp set from CTMH you need to season your stamps.  Take your stamp and stamp it in the lightest ink you have.  Then, stamp your stamp on a scrap piece of paper until you don't see anymore ink coming off of the stamp. Do this a couple of times to make sure it is done well. Then clean your stamp. This is called seasoning your stamp. This will help your stamp get a good clean stamp and shouldn't stain the stamp as much.  If your stamp does stain it will not affect the stamp image on your piece.
           Another tip when stamping, use the foam sheet that comes in your stamp set to cushion and get a good stamp image.  To do this, take the foam that is in the stamp set and place it under the paper piece you are stamping on - then stamp your image. This is really helpful when stamping with a stamp that consists of a lot of detail or is really large. 
           This is a layout I finished with the stamp set Cocktail Alphabet.  I had to season this set, so I used it as my picture. This layout was demonstrated by the Loving Hearts team at our team meeting stamp camp. I was unable to attend this year but was able to make this at home.

           

Next week, I will show you how to make your own background paper with stamp sets.  Don't have the right piece.... Stay tuned.