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Search the archive, three years of Inklings.
Ask the Artist
Our Artist in Residence, Dina Kowal, answers your questions
March 25, 2015
Q: Mary Anna would like to know: "How exactly do you use Versamarker watermark pen?"
A: The Versamarker pen is filled with the same ink that we've come to love in the Versamark inkpad. It has many uses: embossing ink, watermark stamping (stamped image will appear slightly darker than the cardstock it's stamped on), and even resist effects on glossy paper. The marker format allows you to write, draw, or fill in areas of an image for embossing. I've used it for masking a colored image so I could fill in a background around it - after the image was colored, I colored over it carefully with the Versamarker then embossed with clear powder.
March 18, 2015
Q: Valerie asks: "What is dry embossing?"
A: Dry embossing refers to the type of embossing that's done with embossing folders or a stylus and stencil, where areas of the paper are raised by the application of pressure. It's a term that distinguishes that type of embossing from heat embossed images, where ink and embossing powders are used.
March 11, 2015
Q: Mary wants to know: "What are some ways I can revive my stamps that are not in a box, especially rubber that's on wood?"
A: Sunlight and exposure can be especially damaging to rubber stamps. Try using Versamark ink to soften and recondition the rubber (ink up, let sit, then gently clean). One of our members recommends this recipe for reviving rubber: Mix 2 teaspoons glycerin with 1/2 cup of distilled water. Place dry stamps, image down, on a plate or other shallow tray/pan. Add enough mix to cover just the rubber. Let soak for at least an hour, then rinse until rubber no longer feels slick. Air dry & put away. Check out this forum thread for more ideas from our members!
March 4, 2015
Q: Stephanie asks: " I have received a new rubber stamp that does NOT have any backing on it, so it will not stick to a stamping block. What is the best way to use it, or where can I buy a material to put on the back of the stamp so I can use my blocks?"
A: There are a few options for unmounted rubber stamps. The simplest method is just to apply a few strips of double sided tape or repositionable adhesive runner to the back, and stick the stamp directly to an acrylic block. Some prefer to apply a repositionable stencil spray adhesive or a liquid glue such as Aleene's Tack-It Over & Over to the whole back of the stamp - once dry, the adhesive stays tacky and can be used multiple times. Cling foam backing can be purchased in sheets if you'd rather have a little cushion under the stamp.
February 25, 2015
Q: Kathy wants to know: "What is adhesive foil?"
A: Several crafting companies carry sheets of thin aluminum foil with adhesive backing and a removable liner. You can purchase it in roll form at the hardware store, too - what I use is 3M brand aluminum duct tape. It can be layered on chipboard and die cut, colored with alcohol inks, or used to cover altered items for a steampunk look. Check out the Faux Metal Figures tutorial and video for some other uses.
