Discover five creative ways for inking the stamp for different effects. Learn essential tips for using large stamps and see my favourite technique in action.
Before committing to a full card front, test each inking method on strips of Basic White cardstock. Every approach offers a unique look!
Tips For Inking The Large Stamps
It can be tricky to hold and stamp large background stamps, but these tips can help. Apply the ink pad to the upturned stamp instead of pressing the stamp to the ink pad. Hold the stamp at its smallest end or use both hands for better control.
Use grid paper or a glass mat to assist with placement—align your cardstock to a grid line for straight positioning. Before stamping, hover the stamp over another grid line to ensure proper alignment. Cut your cardstock slightly larger than needed and trim it after stamping.
5 Ways For Inking The Stamp
1. Direct Inking
Apply ink directly from the ink pad to the stamp, then press onto cardstock. This method creates a variegated texture with dark and light areas, perfect for Distinktive stamps.
2. Direct Inking with Water
Follow the direct inking method, then spritz the inked stamp with water before stamping. This technique produces a stippled effect with soft, organic blotches.
3. Sponged Inking
Ink the stamp as in Method 1, then use a blending brush or sponge to soften the ink before stamping. This gives a subtle, blended look—my personal favorite!
4. Sponged Inking with Water
Start with Method 3, then lightly spritz the stamp with water before stamping. This method adds texture with a slightly heavier stippling effect than Method 2.
5. Ink Pad to Craft Mat
Dab ink onto a silicone craft sheet, spritz generously with water, and press the stamp onto the inked surface. Tap the stamp up and down, then stamp onto cardstock. Reuse the leftover ink for a second-generation print. Watch the video tutorial for best results!
The Magic of inking the Painted Stripes Stamp
The Painted Stripes stamp is ideal for creating quick watercolor-style backgrounds. Its built-in texture mimics the look of real brushstrokes, making it a must-have for effortless depth.
As a Distinktive stamp, it features a unique texture that adds dimension in a single step, producing photo-realistic results.
Finishing the Card
Once I inked the Painted Stripes background, I stamped and die-cut three paintbrushes from the Trusty Tools stamp set. I used Pebbled Path for the outlines and Boho Blue, Wild Wheat, and Shy Shamrock (stamped off) for the handles. Two brushes have Linen Thread hangers for added detail.
For texture, I embossed a Wild Wheat cardstock piece using the Mini Corrugated Embossing Folder. This deep wave design adds dimension, perfect for layering elements.
I then stamped the sentiment in Pebbled Path on a Nested Essentials die-cut. Inside the card, I added a Boho Blue paintbrush—one last touch before saying goodbye to this retiring 2022-2024 In Colour. Hopefully, these shades return in a future refresh!
Try these inking methods and let me know which one you love best! Happy stamping!
PS: The Painted Stripes stamp would be perfect for the circle background on this Dainty Delight post from a couple of years ago.
I’m taking a break next week so my next live will be Thursday 17th April at 1.30pm, see you then.
