2D & 3D Stamps

[wvcraftsman]

I've been practicing using the 2D and 3D stamps. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong, but the stamps are moving on me when I strike them with the mallet. I'm using the heavy handle and piece of marble.

[Timd]

The heavy handle is a step in the right direction. What I found that works for me is to get the stamp where you want it, then wrap your hand firmly around the handle, apply firm downward pressure, and give it one GOOD whallop with your striking tool. I have a heavy rawhide mallet that I use for that. Then tilt the stamp back to see if you have an even impression. If not, carefully set the stamp back in the lines, apply pressure again, this time concentrating a little on where the impression is light, an whack it again. It takes a little practice, and I still screw up sometimes, but it's getting better. Hope this helps.

[whinewine]

I was taught to tilt it on 1 edge & hit it, just to get a deep impression, then roll it to get equal impressions all around. If you can get one successful edge, you can use that to re-align the stamp for all the other edges. If you don't have a good edge for alignment, everything will bounce into misalignment.

[Luke Hatley]

Have you thought about an embossing press?

[King's X]

How wet is your leather? I keep my leather wet (darker). After applying water, I allow it to sit about 5-10 minutes. I do what TimD suggests everytime. I always get a good impression unless parts of the leather did not take water well.

Good luck

[wvcraftsman]

Thanks for the tips. I'll try tilting the stamp. I keep the leather pretty wet, but I may not be waiting long enough before I start stamping. Every now and then I'll get a good one, but not consistant at all. Just enough to keep me coming back for more . I guess the key is to practice, practice, practice. Thanks for the help everyone. I love this forum!