how to: stamp carving

aka: the REAL post of the day… lol

Carving stamps is so fun, guys! And really, really addicting. I have been carving random ones while watching tv, and it’s really relaxing. Carve your stress away, peeps! Anyways-here’s a quick how to and some tips!

What I used:
Speedball cutting tool-comes with five differently shaped cutters- and has easy storage inside the handle-the top twists off so you can stash them safely away.
Speedball carving block– I got two 4×6″ blocks and I have only gone through half of one with all the stamps I’ve made! Unless you’re making a hugemungous stamp, they seem like they will last awhile.
Exacto knife-for cutting the block into pieces for your stamps
Fabric paint-I use the Tulip brand and it works fine for me-it fades a tad when you wash it but not too bad. I love the velveteen paint-it puffs up slightly when you heat set it with your iron so it gives some dimension to the stamp.

First, draw your design on some plain white paper with a pencil. You can trace a design, or freehand it! Unlimited options!

Press the paper to the block, pencil side down and rub-make sure it doesn’t shift!

It will transfer to the block-usually better than this picture shows, lol.

Then I carve around the whole design with the smallest carving tool-just to get the best edge I can. It’s like carving butta…or soap. Or…soft rubber. Whatever…it’s fun!

Then I carved out the middle sections-try to go as deep as you can without compromising the stamp structure. (my gosh, I sound smart-ish)

Then switch to a deeper carving tip-I like the one shaped like a V for sharp edges, and then carve out the rest! The U shaped tip is good for smoothing out the rough scratches-but those are kind of fun to look at so I don’t worry about them too much, as long as they aren’t high enough to interfere with the stamp.


Next squeeze out some fabric paint onto a paper plate-I like to mix them up to get a custom look! Use a foam brush to dab some paint on the stamp. You want enough paint to cover it, but not so much that it seeps into the design. It’s a delicate procedure, but do some practice stamping and you’ll get the hang of it! It’s not rocket science….it’s messy and fun! Place the stamp down where you want it carefully, (don’t fumble and drop it like I’ve done…) then with even pressure push down gently, then lift the stamp straight up. Tada! Heat set with your iron per the fabric paint instructions, then use your custom fabric for a fun new project or two!

Happy stamping! See some tops I stamped here!

Comments

  1. This is sooooo cool! I’ve been wanting to have a go at creating some custom design fabrics for a while but didn’t realise it could be so simple! I’m off to Hobbycraft first thing in the morning for supplies and hoping the kiddos will take an extra long nap in the afternoon so mummy can play, lol! Thanks so much for sharing. p.s.this is my first time commenting on your blog but I love everything you share here…and the lovely down-to-earth way you write. You’ve really been an inspiration to me as I’ve started out sewing for my children and blogging too. Thank you Jess!

  2. I love this… I’ve done some fabric stamping before but I’ve never made my own stamp… it looks like so much fun! I’m looking forward to seeing what you make with that hot-air balloon stamp. =)

  3. Such cute little stamps, Jess! Love your designs. ๐Ÿ™‚

  4. I have been seeing stamp carving tutorials lately and reaaaally want to try it! I have to say I am so impressed with your tutorial though – you make it look so fun and easy! I am definitely going to buy some supplies this weekend and get crackin’! Thanks for the inspiration!!

    xoxo
    Melyssa
    http://thenectarcollective.com/

  5. I am excited to try this!

  6. Thanks for this fabulous tutorial Jess! I can’t wait to try this. I’m pinning it.

  7. This is great! I’ve tried making staps before, but they did not turn out that well. Your tips are very helpful. Thanks for sharing! ๐Ÿ™‚

  8. These are so cute! I’ve tried to carve some stamps, but somehow mine looked more “made by kid” than “awesomely homemade” like yours… I’m jealous, but you’ve inspired me to try again! : )

    -Mel the Crafty Scientist

  9. Hi Jess! Thanks for the great explanation — I’m thinking of carving up a few stamps for a project for the godson as a start to summer treat. ๐Ÿ™‚ Quick question if you have a chance — you mentioned heat setting the paint, but how would you launder the fabric? I’m thinking of the cute elephant skirt you made in another post for one of the girls’ pen pals, and just curious how you would anticipate washing a home stamped piece of clothing. Ok, will stop running on now, hope all is well! ๐Ÿ™‚

  10. thanks for this post.I’ve been wondering how I could make my own. MY only problem is that I’m from South Africa and I don’t think the supplies are readily available, might have to order them online. Love your page by the way :).

Trackbacks

  1. […] you’ve never tried making your own stamps you might like to have a look at this tutorial – or even try making a stamp out of styrofoam (as in picture 3 […]

  2. […] 3. Cheap erasers make the perfect stamp. Simply draw your design and start carving away, via Craftiness Is Not Optional. […]

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