Inka stamps is now offering some fab photo-realistic art stamps
Because they stamp really different, I hope everyone who is ordering one takes the time to read these quick tips.

Because the detail is so fine on these stamps, even after you have cleaned your new stamp, the manufacturing process will leave some trace of mold release. To remove this, first scrub your stamp dry with a fingernail brush. The bristles on these are really fine yet stiff so it helps get the mold release out of all the tiny voids. Then ink your stamp, rub the ink in with your finger then stamp it a few times on scratch paper until the image stamps clear. On some of these, I had to stamp them 10 times or more after cleaning...so don't give up.

The other major problem people seem to have is to choosing the right ink. Most dye inks will work. I think the Ranger Archival Ink Pads work best. They stamp a crisp image and will not run if you are going to be using watercolor to create that vintage" hand tinted photo" look. I have also found that "Stayz-on" ink works well and allows you to stamp on velum and a variety of other surfaces, Try not to choose ink that is too "wet" like your "Big Juicy" because the ink will run and muddle up the print and blur the detail. It is also important not to choose a "pigment" ink if you want a clear image. They are just too thick...of course there are times when you want a not so perfect image. For those time when I am working on an altered art piece, I might choose pigment ink.

The paper also makes a big difference. For a clear detailed image, choose a paper that will not soak up the ink to fast. Coated glossy or matte photo paper is a great choice. I have also found that the lazar paper for color photos or "Business Gloss" works well and is much more economical. There are also some great coated cardstocks too but with these you will just have to use the "trial and error" method. Avoid papers with texture, as it will decrease the details.

You really don't have to color your image but there are some great techniques for this. Chalks work great for a very soft look but may not "grab" onto the glossy. To make the chalk take on gloss paper, after stamping your image seal it with "art sealer" spray". My favorite way is to "mock" watercolor. Scribble some ink from your colored marker onto an acrylic block. Then with a damp water color brush pick up a little ink and use the brush on your image. You can mix shades of pink, peach and browns to get some realistic skin tones and I just love the old "hand tinted look".

Try stamping your image with light colored dye ink that will run when wet... like "Vivid" ink. You could even do this with two colors...like yellow then light pink. Clean your stamp and then ink it with a dark fast dry ink that won't run...like the "Ranger Archival Ink Pads" stamp the image again but slightly to one side of where you stamped it with the "Vivid" ink. Then swirl a damp watercolor brush inside the lines of your image. The light colored dye ink will run and get darker and the shading will be in all the right places.

I hope this little bit of info helps you and that you have a great time stamping your new stamps!

Inka