DON'T panic - when you get your stamp sets, they are "not" pre-assembled. Please see below for the easy instructions of how to put your new stamp sets together. Instructions do come with the stamp sets as well.
Directions:
1) Trim and apply labels to the top of the wood blocks, using the copyright line at the bottom of each image as a guide for correct placement. Apply label with stamp set name to the end of the box.
2) Trim the rubber close to the images to prevent surplus rubber edges on your stamped image. Make short, straight cuts instead of curving around the design. Do not undercut the rubber to form an angle.
3) Match all trimmed rubber images to all appropriate block sizes.
4) Pull off the paper backing of the rubber and apply the sticky side to the stamp block, matching the position of the label on the opposite side.
Additional Tips:
1) After trimming several sets with our Craft and Rubber Scissors, the blades can get gummy from the sticky adhesive on the rubber stamps. Use Stampin' Mist, fingernail polish remover, or rubbing alcohol to remove any residue and wipe dry with a cloth.
2) Stamps don't always have to be mounted in the centre of the block. Some stampers prefer mounting their rubber along one of the edges of the block (especially alphabet and Two-Step Stampin'® sets) so they can see exactly where the image will stamp on the card stock. Even so, remember, do NOT use the label as a guide necessarily - you may not have put the actual rubber on straight. It is always best to stamp first on a scrap piece of paper so you can see how it is aligned.
3) If new rubber does not take ink well (i.e., pools instead of inking evenly), try first buffing the rubber lightly with our sanding block, or try stamping a few times with VersaMark® ink.
Recommendation:
I would highly recommend our Craft & Rubber Scissors (found on page 184). I have bought I don't know how many different scissors thinking there were "good", only to find out they weren't and my hands hurt shortly after using them - thus turning me off the idea of having to put together my own stamps. However, I must admit, once I bought one of our Craft & Rubber Scissors, I was SOLD instantly. They are fantastic!!! And the best part - they DON'T hurt your hands!!! They are very sharp and have a nice small tip for you to get up close without the fear of cutting too far. They are well worth the investment!
