New at rubber stamping; how to eliminate ink beading

by Anita
(Canada)

I have purchased some rubber stamps and acrylic blocks, and also purchased a set of brush tip markers, indicated on the package as "perfect for rubber stamping". The markers are water based, acid free and non toxic. However, they don't seem to work with the rubber stamps, the ink kind of "beads" and I end up with blotchy imprints...is there something I should do to "prime" my new rubber stamps, or is there something else I might be doing wrong? I am eager to get started and frustrated that this doesn't seem to be working right.

Answer: Welcome, Anita! I know you are going to love all the creativity you can achieve with stamping.

As for your marker ink "beading" on the rubber stamps, this can sometimes happen with new stamps, especially noticeable on bolder images. While it may be a little harder to control the flow of ink from a marker than an ink pad, there also can be a bit of a finish on new stamps that should subside after a few uses.

Scrunch up a piece of paper and rub it gently back and forth across the image a few times to roughen it up a little, and then try it again. You could also try a very fine sandpaper, using a light touch and being very careful not to scratch the image. This should help to eliminate the beading and give a more uniform impression.

Remember to use the side of your brush tip marker to apply the color, not the tip... this will help to preserve the shape of your tip. Once you are done coloring your stamp, "huff" on it to re-moisten the ink and then stamp.

Enjoy your new toys, Anita! And please come back and share what you've created with us!

Rebecca