A large variety of papers await the adventurous stamper who is willing to experiment and have some fun. Rubber stamps can be used on anything from tissue paper to heavy cardboard. Care must be taken to use the appropriate ink and techniques.

Here are some short descriptions of some of the basics:

• Index: 120 lb. plain, non-coated cardstock, sturdy enough for folded projects as well as greeting cards

• Glossy: coated, high gloss index weight cardstock, very smooth o Matte: coated, dull finish index weight cardstock, ideal for stamping, coloring and heat embossing techniques

• Assorted Cardstock comes in many different colors and textures

• Vellum: (also called drafting paper) this translucent paper is excellent for stained glass techniques, and is suitable for heat embossing, coloring from the back with markers, and mounting behind a window opening in your card.

• Clear Transparency Film: (clear acetate, laser and copy machine compatible transparent material) This material is able to withstand heat from the embossing process without shrinking or buckling. Perfect for many stained glass techniques and "window" cards.

• Mulberry Paper: This beautiful paper is made out of fibers from the bark of a mulberry tree.

• Plus many more specialty papers! Visit our Accessory Section.

By experimenting, you will find your favorites. The most important thing is to have fun!

S T A M P I N '   T I P S

• When stamping on coated cardstock, pigment inks will not dry because they cannot be absorbed into the paper. If you use pigment ink, it must be heat embossed. If you do not wish your coated cardstock project to be heat embossed, stamp with Memories ink. Either heat set it with your embossing heat tool, or allow enough drying time to cure the ink so it won't smear.

• For stamping, avoid porous papers such as construction paper or lightweight typing paper. Most inks will bleed or feather into the surrounding paper fibers.

• Specialty papers such as deco film, metallic, mulberry paper, drafting vellum, clear acetate, or sticker paper can be used to add layers, textures, dimension and special effects to your work. Most specialty papers can be stamped on, if you are aware of which inks work best for coated and uncoated papers. When using clear acetate (overhead transparency sheets) be sure to choose one which is marked for laser printer or copy machine, so that it will withstand the heat needed for embossing.

• Matte finish coated paper is often the best choice for blending and shading colors when using chalk, oilsticks or colored pencils.

• You can determine the color of your cardstock! When you can't find the color you would like for your card, begin with a white or light colored card. Glossy, matte or textured papers will each produce a different look. Roll on ink with a brayer. Choose a solid color or a multi-colored pattern. Sponging techniques work well for background colors as well. For very intense solid colors, choose matte or glossy coated stock. Using MemoriesT ink, turn over your pad and rub it directly onto the card surface. Once it has dried, it can be used for any decorating techniques, since the background ink will be permanent.

• Use freezer paper for gift bags or gift wrap. Stamp and decorate the paper side, leaving the wax-coated side for the inside.