Question about clear stamping

[CraftyMel2]

Hello When stamping with a clear stamp, is there a trick to using the markers on them? When I try to color, say, flowers in one color and then the leaves in green, it comes out sort of "wet" looking. Sort of splotchy. That does not happen when using the red rubber stamps. I am wondering if that is why PTI stamps come in "layers" so that you can do part of the image in one color and part in another? Maybe I need a different kind of marker? If there is a trick to this, please share!! Thanks in advance

[purpleflowers]

It sounds a bit like the results I get with "new" unconditioned clear stamps, even with stamp pads. Maybe try some of those techniques (and there are lots of different ideas to try, like scrubbing/cleaning thoroughly to remove manufacturing residue, rubbing with a white eraser, using chalk ink to stamp some images etc) to see if that helps the stamp accept the marker ink better?

[jukie]

your ink is 'pooling', Kerry's suggestions are great, you could also try inking up with clear embossing ink first, or I have had luck with inking up, stamping on some scrap paper and then reinking.

[stamphappy1650]

In general, it's hard to get good coverage with a water based/dye ink marker even when you condition the stamp. I find that Marvy Brush Markers work decent. These markers have a binding agent so they don't dry as fast and tend not to pool. For me, most of the times I just don't bother to use a marker on most clear stamps. Poly stamps are somewhat better.

[CraftyMel2]

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone! Most all of my stamps are conditioned so that's not going to fix the problem in my case. I did not try using them embossing pad first, I am going to give that a shot tonight and see how it works.

[Denverkat276]

I love the marry brush markers. You can find them really cheap on ebay too. I love them. I need a new black one bad.