Rubber Stamping Essentials by Rachel
Hello fellow craft enthusiasts! I’m Rachel ♀️
I have a burning passion for all things artsy and lately, I’ve plunged into the world of rubber stamping. And guess what? It’s a fantastic addition to my scrapbooking projects!
Curious about rubber stamping? Let me break it down for you.
What’s the Buzz About Rubber Stamping?
Often under the radar, rubber stamping is a cost-effective and super fun method to elevate your artwork. I love stamping and while the ink’s still wet, sprinkling a touch of magic, be it glitter or sand, over the design.
Rubber Stamping Basics
Rubber stamping is an ancient craft. The method involves applying dye or pigment-ink onto a design, which is typically crafted onto a rubber sheet. This rubber masterpiece can be mounted on various materials like wood, acrylic, or even brick. Once inked, the stamp is pressed onto a medium, transferring the beautiful design.
Though it’s common to stamp on paper or fabric, you can also experiment with mediums like plastic, glass, metal, or wood. Nowadays, stamps are available in multiple categories – from office essentials to kid’s play and decorative delights.
The Artistic Side of Rubber Stamping
As it grew in popularity, rubber stamping carved a niche as a prominent art form. Many artists, especially here in the U.S., craft their own stamps using gum erasers or eraser-type rubber. There are even specialized carving kits available from big names like Master Carve and Speedball.
Today, you’re spoilt for choice with a plethora of rubber stamp designs available online. And if you’re itching to be creative, there are pads and tools available to design your own. You can further amplify your stamped designs using materials like fibers, paints, ink, and chalk, making it perfect for scrapbooking, card-making, and other art projects.
Exploring Beyond Rubber
While rubber is common, other materials like woodcut and linocut also make fantastic stamps. Linocut, a favorite in Europe, is loved by hobbyists, whereas woodcut is for those seeking a challenge. Rubber carvings, though popular, are more kid-focused and not ideal for professional settings.
A Peek into Rubber Stamp History
Before rubber took over, brass stamps were the go-to, often used as wax seals on documents. As for rubber’s entry into stamping, the credit goes to Charles Goodyear, who accidentally discovered the rubber curing process in 1844. This breakthrough paved the way for the first rubber stamps, initially used as dental pots!
Fast forward, many rubber stamp manufacturers from the 1880s still thrive today, producing the stamps we commonly see in banks, offices, and postal services.
Final Thoughts
I hope this dive into rubber stamping has sparked your curiosity! Ready to try it?
| Quick Summary |
|---|
| Rubber Stamping: An art form where inked designs from a rubber mold are transferred to various mediums. |
| Commonly used on paper and fabric, but works on plastic, glass, and more! |
| Evolved from brass stamps used as wax seals on documents. |
| Charles Goodyear is credited for the breakthrough in rubber stamping. |