FAQ

Do you accept returns?

I stand by every product I sell. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, please don’t hesitate to contact me for a resolution at aileen@aileensmithdesign.com or via the contact page.

What size are the stamps?

The wooden blocks are 25mm (1 inch) cubes, and each design fits onto a 23mm x 23mm square of rubber.

What kind of ink stamp pad should I use?

I have not used all the different brands of ink pads available, but the one brand that I have used and can recommend is Tsukineko, in particular, the Versacolor small No. 82 Black – it's the perfect compact size for my stamps! I have found it to be exceptionally smear/smudge resistant when swatching over with fountain pen ink and it is very affordable.

Note: Australians can readily find this ink pad at stores such as Spotlight or Officeworks. Many online craft stores also stock them.

How can I thoroughly clean my stamps?

I have found the best way to clean the stamps after using them is to do it immediately. Baby wipes work well while the ink is still wet, but if you have let your ink dry on your stamp, you may want to try a stamp cleaner. Again, I can only recommend either of these two Tsukineko products as I have not used any other brands. You can usually find in the same store that you purchased your ink stamp pads from.

Note: The StazOn Cleaner works better for removing any pigment/solvent ink.

How do I look after my stamps and ink pads?

There are so many things that you can do with rubber stamps, but only if you take good care of them, the ink pads, and any other items that you are using with your stamps. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Keep a pack of baby wipes handy.
This little trick is really helpful if you are changing ink colours often and using the same stamp. Gently wipe your rubber stamps to remove the previous colour, then you can re-ink safely.

Invest in some finger daubers or small sponges.
To achieve a layered colour look, use finger daubers/smaller sponges to apply ink to your stamps so you don't cross-contaminate your coloured ink pads.

Always use even and firm pressure.
When applying your stamp to your paper or surface, even pressure will ensure a crisp imprint.

The surface on which you stamp makes a difference.
Make sure that your surface is firm, flat and solid. If you are using plain paper, put a few sheets together to create a solid surface. This will ensure an even stamped image, as opposed to picking up any texture of the surface under your paper.

Over time, rubber stamps will stain.
There is a difference between ink residue and staining. Most stamps will become stained over time, it is a perfectly normal process. But to prolong the good looks of your stamp, make sure to clean it after each use: blot it with a baby wipe to get most of the ink off, then clean more thoroughly with some stamp cleaner (optional but ideal), and then gently pat it dry before storing it away.

Never soak your rubber stamps.
Particularly wood mounted blocks. Soaking will loosen the adhesive and ruin your stamps.