What I like about Versacraft

It was around this time last year when a friend of mind introduced me to the idea of stamp carving. I didn't pursue it right off because I had a feeling it wasn't going to be easy. I've had quite a few failed attempts when I started learning it then I chanced upon a workshop. I wouldn't have signed on, had I not been so distracted with other crafty things and actually focus on stamp carving. 

It took me a total of 20 minutes to get things started with carving eraser blocks (you can get started here). Believe me, when you've got the right tools, it's as easy as cutting butter. 

Ink pads are of course a must when you're creating your own stamps. I started with the regular Orion ones you find in National Bookstore then moved on to the multi-colored ones that are always on sale in the same store; they were let's just say, unimpressive. Okay, if you want to play with stamping and really enjoy it, you have to invest on ink pads. And the first ink pad you should invest on is Versacraft. 

Versacraft ink pads come in a variety of colors!

I wouldn't really call it investing if you're only going to buy one or two since the prize range is only at P130-P150. But if you're a hoarder like me, then yes, invest in these cube babies. What I like about Versacraft is that you can use it for numerous surfaces, as suggested on the packaging. I've limited my use to paper, card stock, wood, and fabric only. I'd advise it for porous surfaces but for non-porous ones like metal or ceramic, there's a different ink pad for that (on another post(>‿◠)✌).

Colors are vibrant and covers any stamp fully, no matter how thin the lines are. 

In the photo above, I used Versacraft Lemon Yellow for the pineapple, which really should be a faint color but is not. I feel the colors really are quite accurate. The thing about these little cubes is that it allows flexibility whether you have a tiny stamp or a huge one. You can even blend different colors on to one stamp! When you store your Versacraft cube ink pads or any ink pad for that matter, make sure you store them upside down. 

Store your ink pads upside down and stack 'em up to save space!

Storing them this way is like getting help from gravity to make your ink sit on the surface, especially when you've used it up and is about to run dry. Now you must be wondering where to buy these? Go online! I bought a couple of these stamps outside the country. But, here's a source in the Philippines where you can get these ink pads.

Make postcards, invites, greeting cards, or even gift wrappers with stamps!

There are many ways to get creative with stamps. I like playing with it to create invites and stationeries with different patterns and borders like the one above. Earlier, I suggested that if you're only planning on buying one then go for black. But, truth is once you see Tsukineko's collection of Versacraft ink pads, I doubt you'd be able to control yourself to buying just one. It lasts for quite some time too so you don't need to worry about having to replace them after just a few uses. 

Use this little postcard as a gift card and download it free on 11-15-2014!

Do you have your own favorite ink pad? Or have questions on stamp carving? Message me and I'll do my best to help you out! :) Craft away craft babies!