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Text Box: Background and Accent Stamps Up Front and Forward  

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Text Box:           One of my favorite things is background and accent rubber stamps, I just can't get enough of them. I love using these stamps in my collage art to give added dimension and depth to the work. They are not limited to altered books but can be used in all forms of art. I have designed a set of background stamps that are perfect for this technique. The following technique is one I have developed to achieve an aged vintage look but can be varied to work in pieces with a contemporary composition. This technique is used as a final step in my collage art. My preference is to use pigment based stamp pads as they have a richness and depth of color that suits this stamping method. Select the desired background stamp and ink the stamp. I try and choose a color; one that will compliment the piece I am working on.  For example, sometimes I will first stamp with a brown and then stamp a second time with black,. But let's get back to the actual stamping. Once the stamp is inked, press into the desired area. While the ink is still wet, using a wet wipe (I use a standard baby wipe, any brand will work but I try and avoid the ones with lotion), dab the baby wipe on the stamped areas very lightly. Try to lighten certain area and even remove some of the stamped pattern, also soften any hard edges that the stamp leaves. If desired, you can heat set the ink. Continue applying layers of stamping to get the desired look. On the example above, I first used the mottled pattern from my collection of background rubber stamps with a pink and then aqua colored ink. Around the edges, I stamped the crackle pattern from the same collection in pinecone brown and black ink. After the ink is dry and set, I like to spray a finish. I have had good luck with Deft Clear Wood Finish. Some people use Krylon Crystal Clear. I have heard that both can turn cloudy especially if using in high humidity. Also the Krylon can turn light areas a bit yellow, I have not had this problem with the Deft. Try both on some white cardboard to test which works best for you. I hope this technique inspires you to take background and accent stamps up front and forward and add another layer of dimension to your art work. This example is what I call the Vintage China stamping technique and uses the crackle pattern background stamp from my background stamp collection. A tea dye pigment ink stamp pad was used. (I like Ranger brand Distress Ink) *

 

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