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Stamp Style

These projects will get every crafter's stamp of approval.

From "Creative Juice"
episode DCRJ-708

(Continued from page 3)

Cleaning Rubber Stamps

We’re cleaning up with smart ideas to keep rubber stamps looking good as new.

Several types of rubber stamp cleaners are available at craft stores. Some come in a spray bottle; others come with a felt applicator tip for applying cleaner directly to the stamps.
Alcohol-free baby wipes can be used to clean rubber stamps. One wipe will clean several stamps (figure A).
A washcloth, sock, soft cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush dampened with water or stamp cleaner can be used to clean rubber stamps.
Pad painters, found in the paint aisle of a hardware store, can be used to clean stamps. Spray half of the pad painter with stamp cleaner (or dampen with water) and leave the other half dry. Scrub stamps with the wet side and wipe dry with the dry side (figure B).

Figure A

Figure B
When using multiple stamps for a project, set the stamps face down on a damp towel while working (figure C). Cleanup will be easier if the ink on the stamps is still damp.
Some darker inks can stain rubber stamps; don’t worry if the stamps don’t look pristine after a good cleaning (figure D).

Figure C

Figure D

Used stamps won't look pristine, but our hints can help keep them neat and ready for the next project!
Do not soak rubber stamps in water when cleaning; water will weaken the adhesive.
Do not use oil-based solvents to clean rubber stamps; solvents will deteriorate the rubber.
Do not use products with alcohol to clean rubber stamps; alcohol will dry out the rubber.