Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Stamping on regular tile


Though my coasters are made on rough, unfinished tiles that are porous, here is an idea to use on the finished and much less expensive tile.
You still need to use the permanent Stayz-On inks. It is definitely a little more tricky because the finished tiles are little easier to slip/slide on. I recommend inking the stamp and placing it rubber side up and then pressing the tile into the stamp [generally opposite of what you normally do]. But everyone has to find their own groove. You want to leave at least 10-20 minutes for the ink to dry before handling it, in case you haven't used it in this manner before. The other thing is because it is generally smooth [whether matte or shiny], the ink is easy to scratch off. I recommend a triple thick clear glaze to either spray or paint over it. Available generally in the more professional paint areas of craft stores, though a bit pricey, it will preserve your work better than general clear spray paint. This also helps protest it from not only rubbing off but being wiped away if water/cleaner is used. I always have a note NOT to use water to clean. Though the ink is stated as permanent, it will wash away with water...thus a heavy duty sealant is necessary!
Featured in these pics are my 2 X 2 tile magnets and 6 X 6 trivets. I buy the heavy duty magnets so they really hold stuff well. The trivets are finished with thin foam squares on the back to protect the surface it is placed on. For your info, I sell the trivets for $7 and the tiles for $2.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009

Stamping on Fabric ~Baby Onesies

Looking for a way to add a little something to that plain shirt? Wondering how to make an easy, lower cost baby gift [rather than those speciality boutique prices]. And as I always say, "handmade gifts earn heartfelt thanks"!
This is one of my biggest sellers at the craft/art fairs I do. Baby Onesies! [They can come with a matching gift card on RQ]

First, I will tell you that you don't have to buy the overpriced small bottles of fabric paint.
You can use the kind that come in little bottles for around $1 and a larger variety of colors. Mostly they will say permanent on them. If you have ever worked on any craft project, spilled some on you and didn't wash it quickly, you know it really is permanent. Which is actually what led me to these...an oops! I love that!
I first did it for a tank I wore for the Stampin' Up Convention while I was pregnant with Jesse. When it lasted after numerous washings, I was sold! [Excuse the cheesy, very-pregnant smile. I was elated to see SU had used a card I submitted on their example board at a regional conference!] :)
I stamp the design, allow it to dry, and then heat set it with an iron and a thin kitchen towel over the design.
Brand Tip: I have found Gerber Onesies run smaller so I often get the Carters or Circo when I can find them plain.
I sell the onesies for $7 at my fairs and online. Special orders available.