Now we are in 2009 amid the credit crisis, which is a gloomy outlook worldwide. Consequently any little thing that we can figure out to lighten our lives in the present circumstances can only be a stroke of luck. Being an artist I can lose myself by doing abstract paintings where I can direct my emotions, or head on out to do some landscape painting to keep my feet firmly on the ground and add a touch of realism.

Nonetheless, not every person desires to paint, they need other forms of outlet, whether it is for them or to just keep their children amused. So it happens, at present rubber stamping seems to remain in fashion, consequently my article!

There appear to be a variety of forms of ink pads to be had to do rubber stamp with, so how do you know which ones to choose? So, let me establish the varied types to you.

Pads which comprise a pigment source are most likely the most worthy of note in several ways, seeing that there seems to be additional colours obtainable, together with metallics plus some fluorescents. These pads create a really eye-catching stamped look.

You are in all likelihood to find that you can sometimes find pads which actually contain multi colours. Though, I would say don’t make an effort to experiment with these with a polished surface. These are brilliant for handling on most papers, the only disadvantage being that they will take quite some time to dry.

Next you get what is branded as dye based pads, which are as it happens, used lots for mutually cards as well as papers. These turn up in very intense translucent colours. They are fast drying, although I would not advocate them if you intend to emboss.

Embossing I will go into further in an additional article, nevertheless they are pads principally planned for this reason. Generally, the colouring comes out quite light and transparent. Embossing pads have got to be used with embossing powders.

Do not expect to see the colour once you have embossed. These too, are slow drying. They are sometimes to be had in a pen format appropriate for, would you believe it, calligraphy.

The ink inside the fabric pads will become permanent once it is fixed. Set aside your work to become dry for a day, after that, somewhat like silk painting, draw on an iron to press your item. The iron needs to be on a hot setting to therefore press your creation on the wrong side.

Friends of mine paint felt tips directly on to their stamp and sometimes mix these up somewhat to combine interest. Certain stamps, you will get, may well really be bigger than the pad. This is not a problem, just cover the stamp entirely along with your ink before you stamp.

If you then would like to add colour to your images you would in truth need to take into account your surface. Then again, you can make use of crayons, oil, glass as well as fabric paint, hence take your pick!

As you store your pads, it is better to put your pads topsy-turvy so that the ink will stay at the top. This way they will be prepared for next time when you desire to use them. It goes without saying, similar to most crafts, that you need to keep them clean.

In this instance you will require a stamp cleaner. If you remember to do this with each usage, they should last you for lots of years to come.