People often ask what technique to do first. Do you embroider first and then stamp, or vice versa? The answer depends on the design you're creating.
If you're building from a background, stamp or stencil the background first, then layer the embroidery over the top. If creating a theme, begin by randomly sprinkling the fabric with embroidery, then fill in other elements.
If you're creating a picture or image, you may want to begin with embroidery--because it's the most timeconsuming to line up and add the stamped elements after.
Consider how the embroidered elements affect the stamped ones--it's tricky to stamp over the uneven surface of an embroidered image. If you're fortunate enough to be using clear stamps (both the mount and rubber are clear), then proper placement is easier.
Stenciling is probably the most versatile technique; it can be applied at any time to the design. Remember, stenciling requires very little paint. You can always go back and add more to your image. If you apply too much paint, it may seep under the stencil and ruin the image.
Basic Stamping
To get a solid image, it's important to have a fair amount of paint on the stamp. Try using a foam brayer to apply the paint; you can control the amount of paint and reload the brayer as needed.
Load the brayer with paint. Use a plastic plate for an artist's palette. Pour or mix paint on one side of the plate. Roll the brayer through the paint until it's absorbed and the brayer has a smooth, even coat of paint.
Lightly roll the brayer over the stamp surface. Don't press down hard; the brayer will slide, and paint will pool in the stamp's recesses. Only the image should have paint on it, not the background. If the raised areas aren't evenly coated with paint, continue lightly rolling the brayer back and forth until they're covered.
Holding the stamp in one hand, line it up over the target area and lower it onto the fabric. With the fingers of your other hand, press on the back of the stamp to make the impression.
Reapply paint after each stamping.
Clean the stamp if paint builds up and the image becomes distorted. Baby wipes are perfect for quick, mid-project cleanups.
When finished stamping, clean all tools promptly. Use a toothbrush and mild dish detergent for the final cleaning.
The Cure
Most, if not all, textile paints need to cure. Allow the fabric to dry thoroughly for 24 to 72 hours before washing. The longer you allow it to cure, the more durable the image will be and the longer it will remain. However, you don't have to wait to continue your project. When the paint is dry to the touch, you can continue playing and building texture.
Heat setting is recommended to preserve the colors and images when washed. Iron from the wrong side, using the hottest setting the fabric will withstand; heat-set for 30 seconds. Or loosely fold the fabric, and place it on a clean cookie sheet. Bake the fabric in a household oven at 250 F for five minutes; remove promptly.
People often ask what technique to do first. Do you embroider first and then stamp, or vice versa? The answer depends on the design you're creating.
To get a solid image, it's important to have a fair amount of paint on the stamp. Try using a foam brayer to apply the paint; you can control the amount of paint and reload the brayer as needed.
Reapply paint after each stamping.
Most, if not all, textile paints need to cure. Allow the fabric to dry thoroughly for 24 to 72 hours before washing. The longer you allow it to cure, the more durable the image will be and the longer it will remain. However, you don't have to wait to continue your project. When the paint is dry to the touch, you can continue playing and building texture.