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Tapestry Rubber Stamps are an innovative idea from Rubber Stamp Tapestry. Their range of tiny peg stamps allows stampers to create stamped projects that look deceptively complex.
Unlike larger stamps that provide the complete image, each tapestry stamp is an individual component, for instance a single leaf, flower, bud, sprig, heart etc. The stamps work together to form an image that is a mass of detail.
Several different stamps are used together with various colored inks. This allows stampers to create one of a kind stamped projects.
About the Stamps
The individual stamps come in 3 sizes. 'Mini' stamps are approximately 5/8-inch wide, 'Tiny' stamps are 3/8-inch wide and 'Itsy' stamps are 1/4-inch wide. Each peg stamp is mounted on a wooden stamp peg that is 3 1/2 inches long.
The tapestry peg stamps are available singly or in packs. Each pack or set contains all the stamps that are required to follow a theme, for instance floral or seasonal. In addition to the stamps, the packs contain instructions and a template. The template allows stampers to stamp a wreath, however there are many other ways that the stamps can be used such as borders and edges.
The recommended ink colors are suggested with each set of stamps, however any ink can be used and different shades of inks create a totally different finished image. In addition to varying the color of ink used, the density of the ink adds dimension to the image.
For instance stamping an image two or three times before re-inking will give a lighter impression each time.
The entire range of stamps can be purchased individually, allowing stampers to create their own collection or to add a specific stamp to complement a set. Additional hearts, for instance, might be purchased to complement a set of floral stamps.
The stamps and stamp sets can be purchased direct from Rubber Stamp Tapestry. They are also available from a wide range of stamping and craft stores. The Rubber Stamp Tapestry website has a complete list of stockists.
Product Reviewed - Lace of Hearts Stamp Set
The Lace of Hearts set contains the 5 peg stamps, template and instructions required to complete a floral and heart stamped wreath.
Pegs: The peg stamps are of good quality and each has a placement line or indicator. This is a useful feature as it allows accurate placing of the stamp. This is more beneficial than perhaps it first sounds. Part of the attraction of the finished project is the apparently interlinking and flowing leaves and sprigs. This is achieved by varying not only the position, but also the direction of the stamp. The placement line allows the direction of the stamp to be determined. This is also useful if you want to be sure that an image is a certain way up, perhaps to add a leaf to a flower.
Template: A template is included that allows the creation of a wreath shape. This was easy to tape to the paper using masking tape, stopping the template from moving. After use it was simply washed clean.
Instructions: The instructions explain how to achieve the stamped wreath shown on the front of the pack. The instructions are easy to follow, telling the stamper where to make impressions, for instance to stamp at the north, south, east and west points.
Inks: Although Versacolor pigment inks are recommended, other inks can be substituted. This will vary the look of the finished project and allows stampers to customize the project. Clearsnap Fluid Chalk Inks were used as part of the review.
Other Information
Ease of Use
The set of stamps were easy and straightforward to use, and given that different colored inks were used, a good likeness to the original was achieved. The instructions are clear and concise allowing the user to create either the wreath shown or their own designs.
Support
There are excellent demos and further instructions on the Rubber Stamp Tapestry website. These include an animated demonstration of how to make the Lace of Heart wreath amongst others. This is an interesting way of presenting information and will be useful for visual learners or for stampers who are just looking for a little reassurance before embarking on something new.
Buying the Stamps
The stamp set for this review was purchased direct from Rubber Stamp Tapestry and the buying experience was positive, with emails confirming receipt and same day dispatch of order. The stamps arrived well packed and in good order.
Conclusion
These stamps will appeal to many stampers.
Positive Points
- These little stamps are great fun and it is extremely easy to create your own one of a kind projects. The stamps are ideal for stampers of all experience levels.
- The stamps and stamp set are good quality and the instructions are clear. These would make ideal gifts.
- The concept although simple is extremely versatile and although the enclosed template allows the easy creation of wreaths, there is much more that can be done with these stamps.
- One stamp had a slightly off center placement line. While it was simply a matter of getting used to the slightly different angle required, it could have been frustrating.
- A wreath is comprised of many individual stamped impressions and as such they do take longer to achieve than using a single stamp.
- Buying the required number of Versacolor stamp pads could add significantly to the cost of the project – however the small ‘Ink Cube’ size would be perfect and works out much more cost effective.
Great fun and yes – they may well become addictive!
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