Today marks the beginning of a new series I'm doing on stamping.
If you've never stamped before and are interested in it, consider this series to be your introduction. If you've stamped before, I hope you will share your experiences on each topic in the comments section as the series goes on. I am by no means an uber expert and I'd like to include readers' perspectives to create a thorough archive of the topic.
History of Stamping
As I began to put this series together, one of the first questions I asked was, "What's the history of stamping?" I did some research and there was a lot of information on the vulcanization process of rubber, but not much on the craft of stamping. Turns out it's a relatively young hobby.
According to the Web site, Rubber Stamping Fun, the hobby began in the early 1970s with All Night Media and Hero Arts. These companies produced stamps made of rubber with etched designs and mounted on wood blocks. By the 1990s, stamping gained in popularity among crafters.
In 2003, Close To My Heart began producing clear polymer stamps, becoming one of the first to offer clear stamps to consumers.
Why Stamp?
Stamps can be the most versatile tool in your craft arsenal. There are many designs available in all kinds of themes, so you're sure to see something you can use on your cards or scrapbooking layouts. They can also be used over and over again, with a different effect each time. I think they are the perfect embellishment.
In the next installment, we'll talk about the different kinds of stamps available on the market.
Do you use stamps? If so, what do you like about them? If you don't use stamps, why not?
Laura, thank you for the compliment! Please tell your friends about me–LOL!
I just finished up the next article in the Stamping series. Will pop up tomorrow a.m. Stay tuned…
You have such a great Blog Carolyn and I find it hard to believe that others don’t come by as often as I do! Stop and say hello to Carolyn and let her know you are there! Waiting for more on the stamping series.