This is a fairly easy project once you have the tools you need. And the most fun part is that you can create any kind of design that your heart desires! I wanted to create a return address stamp that has an interesting font. I did not show that for privacy reasons, but the effort you put into it is the same. So I created a “C” for my last initial and some little arrows (because I am all about arrows right now).
What you will need is:
- Tracing paper
- lino cutters
- Blank rubber stamp pads
That’s it! I found everything I needed at Hobby Lobby for around $16. Use the 40% off coupon for nice savings!
First make a printed copy of the letter/design you want to use. For the round stamps, I made my graphic 1.5″ X 1.5″ in Photoshop. You can print off from another program that you have, like Word, just print it so that it fits your stamp.
Then put your tracing paper over it and trace the letter. I used my ultra fine tip sharpie marker.
Turn the the tracing paper over and center it on the rubber stamp. Remember, the image needs to be reversed when you put it on your stamp. Dampen a paper towel and lay that on top of the paper then press with an iron to transfer the ink onto your stamp. Press until the paper towel is almost dry, just a few seconds. Your stamp should now look like this:
Begin carving out the edges of your letter. I used the second to last smaller cutter for this. A tip is to get close to your lines, but don’t worry about perfecting the edges yet..
Get it all cut out then use your bigger cutter to cut out the bigger areas. Once you have all of the extra parts out, use your smallest cutter to perfect the edges of your letter. Also, make sure to cut down the ridges from the blank area so they don’t stamp with your letter.
I used an empty yarn spool to attach my stamp to. You could also use cork as well. (Save those wine corks!)
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