Just Ask Jeannette

I'm starting a new feature. It's called "Just Ask Jeannette". 

I've gotten some questions about stamping, scrapbooking and the Definately Decorative line so I decided to answer them for you here. 

 

 

This week's Question:

When I ink up a stamp and stamp it, the image comes out blotchy.  Why does this happen and what can I do to prevent it from happening?

 ACK! Just look at that blotched image!

Answer: 

This happens when you are using a solid image stamp.  That's where a lot of the image is going to be inked.  It usually happens when you are using a relatively new stamp or one that hasn't been conditioned.

To condition your stamp, basically what you want to do is give the rubber some tooth or a surface that will grip the ink when applied.  To do this, take your sanding block or superfine sandpaper and gently sand the surface of the stamp.  Sand it in different directions.  This will remove the shiny smooth surface.

 

Make sure to blow off the rubber dust and clean your stamp with your Stampin Mist and Scrub, then ink up your stamp.  Remember to tap your stamp in the ink like you're knocking on a door.  Tap, tap, tap.  This will give you the best coverage.  No need to push the stamp hard into the ink pad.

 

Now stamp your image.  Much better than before!  Click on the photos to get a closer look.

  

As you can see, the conditioned stamp makes a much better image.  Clean and perfect!

Do you have a question you need answered?  Send it to me at StampsNWhatnot@aol.com.  I'll do my best to get you your answer.

Comments

[Lisa Bohler]

Great feature for your blog you smart girl!!!