stamping tools

Stamping tools are one of the 2 main tools that I use in gelatin printmaking. The other is stencils.

Watch the video and get a look at some of my favorite stamping tools.

I use stamping tools to lift off ink and apply in to the gelatin plate. Delicate marks can be made with these tools because of the malleability of the gelatin plate.

We will find stamping tools like, caps, bubble wrap and cut glass.

And we will make tools with cardboard, foam and string.

To learn more about using stamping tools with the gelatin plate check out current online courses on the workshop page.

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Sometimes simple is the most powerful and has the most impact. Think of famous logos, Nike, Apple and Amazon.

I like to use inexpensive and everyday items in my printmaking process as well. So for this easy printmaking process I used:

• set of smooth sided alphabet blocks $1
• Sticky back foam
• scisosrs
• pencil
• waterbed colored markers

I traced the block and did a bunch of sketches while I was watching TV. But these sketches were to complex for me to cut out of the easy to use sticky back foam. I had to go even simpler!

I learned a lot about simplifying my marks:

• Use the edge of the block for reference
• If it is too complex, just remove the foam and start over
• Think about shapes
• Think about how they can fit together
• Use the negative and positive shapes.

If you would like to explore added stamped marks to your papers or prints and creating some printed gifts, then check out the details of the new online printmaking course, Printed Gifts, get the Free origami Box tutorial too.

Stamping tools can be found anywhere.

I have a whole 8 foot table dedicated to my stamping tools for monotype printmaking. I share a few of my favorites with you in the photo above.

• Relief stamp of elastic bands
• Caps and thread spools
• Sprockets
• Rubber bath stickies
• Handmade stamper with ear buds
• Block of wood with great grain
• Kids wooden blocks
• Wide combs
• Cut glass

I am always noticing objects as potential mark making tools. These tools work especially well with the gelatin plate. Because the plate is malleable it can hold the delicate mark that is made in the ink. Then with mere hand pressure you transfer the impression to your print paper.

If you would like help and encouragement as you explore gelatin printmaking with the glycerin and gelatin plate, consider joining us in an online class.  Check out the current online printmaking classes.