If you are using a stamp that has large open spaces in the rubber and are having problems keeping the ink out of the spaces, try using a brayer to apply your ink instead of using the ink pad directly.


To add color to a large detailed stamp, try using an embossing ink pad and pastels. Start by stamping the image with the embossing media and then use a cotton swab to dab the pastels on the image. This is a great way to add lots of color and looks really neat too.


If you like the look of ripped paper on your cards or scrapbook pages, try using a deckle edge ruler as a guide. It makes it easy to rip paper without the fear of ripping too much. For a nice color contrast, you can also dab the ripped edges with pastels.


For an inexpensive way to add flair to your cards, try adding an old dryer sheet to your design. Just pull apart the dryer sheet where you want your edge to be. Used dryer sheets are also handy for getting rid of the static in paper when you are embossing. Just wipe your paper with the old dryer sheet before you stamp with the embossing ink and the excess embossing powder will come off much easier.


A neat way to use a solid stamp is to just ink the edges of it and then stamp it. Stamped like this, it makes a great frame for another stamp. You can also ink the stamp completely with a light color, then add more ink to the edges with a complimentary darker color.


If you like to make your own cards, but find it hard to find the right word stamps for the inside message, try making up your own message on your computer and running your cards through the printer before you decorate them. While word stamps are easier and faster to use, printing your own message allows you to really personalize your cards and say exactly what you want to.


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