The charm of hand stamping is its random organic look, not precise or machine made. However, there are mistakes that can take you from organic to ruined, so here are a few tips to help.
Here are some examples of what not to do:
Holding the stamp the wrong way can result in upside down images. Pay special attention to the 6 and 9 stamp.
Not holding the stamp firm enough can cause the stamp to move.
Not holding the stamp straight can cause incomplete images.
Hitting the stamp too soft can cause incomplete images.
Hitting the stamp too hard can dent the tag along with the impression.
Hitting the stamp twice will leave a shadow impression.
Stamping an image upside down is an easy mistake to make and an easy one to prevent. Practice stamping onto paper 8 to 10 sheets thick. Determine the correct position and place a mark facing you on the stamp with a felt tip pen or fingernail polish. You can also practice spacing the images so that you don't crowd them or run out of room by spreading them out too far.
Lay the silver tag on the stamping block. You can mark on your tag with a pencil or felt tip marker where you plan to stamp. (Permanent ink requires solvents to remove). Or you can write the word on a sticky note and lay it across your object as a guide.
Choose a stamp and hold it with the mark facing you. Position the stamp on the tag where you want the impression to be.
