Helping New Crafters… Stamp Positioning Tools

Thank you for dropping in today. This is really going to be a very different article for me but I wanted to share some of this with you.

Before I start – I think it is important for you to understand that I am totally independent. No one pays me for mentioning their products. I am not reimbursed by anyone. These are totally my ideas and findings. I may be influenced by what I see on line, but when I present a project, the work is mine and not a copy of someone else’s.

During the past few weeks, I have meet several ladies who are hoping to find an affordable hobby for their leisure hours and hopeful retirement.  One lady wants to do projects like mine with unique backgrounds and stamped verses. She purchased some used wood block stamps just before she retired but is now looking to expand. When she looked at my collection, she was amazed that I have basically clear stamps and that they are flexible. I then showed her how to use them with a clear block. We talked a little about how to correct an under-inked image and how the image might not be a perfect match with the blocks. Then I showed her MISTI and the advantages of this type of tool. She is a gifted crafter and loves the idea of creating her own cards but is overwhelmed by the cost factors for the tools that so many of us more seasoned crafters have.

Most of you reading this are familiar with the MISTI and their wonderful new accessories. If not, you may want to view this video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KN_EWtyKLTQ. I have owned mine for the past few years and would be lost without it. 

I decided to see if there are any other similar devices that might help get a new crafter started before purchasing a more expensive unit. Before suggesting anything, I ordered a LeCrea Stamping Tool, Art.nr. 55.3226 for $13.99 from Ecstasy Crafts. It resembles an embossing flat folder with a 3/8” square grid printed pattern on one side and impressed ¾” grid on the other. No magnetic back to hold paper in place but recommends using removable tape. I think this would work with the most of clear stamps. The package offers decent directions.

There is also from Ecstasy Crafts a device called Nelle’s Choice Stamping Buddy for $25.75. It is similar to MISTI in design with only 2 ruler sides marked in both cm and inches.  It has the magnetic base to aid with holding the paper in place. 

Tim Holtz has introduced his Tonic Craft Stamp Platform #1707E for a suggested $34.99 which can be purchased at Simon Says. I do not own one but from what I have been seeing and reading on other sites, it is a great product at a decent price. Thought you might like to view https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbaVgnp3LaM. Seems like an honest review.

Stampin’ Up will be releasing a very unique product later this year called a Stamparatus. It is designed for multiple uses using two reversible plates– again I thought you might like this preview video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jpi4aW8FBLo. I am looking forward to getting mine – hopefully it will arrive by my birthday.

If you are aware of other devices, would you mind posting it in the comments section below. Our new crafters may be interested as it might fit their personal craft needs.

Thank you again for visiting today. Hope you return soon.

May God Bless You and Yours