Introduction:
Rubber stamping is a wonderful introduction
to the world of printmaking. Rubber is easy to carve
and with a harder grade, even small details are possible.
Many people consider rubber stamps a crafts project
but it lends itself well to introducing children
to tools and proper cutting techniques that carry
over into the fine arts realm of printmaking. Today
we will be using linoleum cutting tools and Speedball's
Speedy Stamp blocks. Adult supervision for this project
is very important to insure safe cutting, especially
with children under the age of 10.
Materials:
Speedy
Stamp or Speedy Cut blocks no larger than 3"x4"
Linoleum
cutting tool (handle and 1 small gouge tip) for each
child
Pencils & erasers
Rubber
stamp pad (multiple colors if you so desire)
White
bond paper larger than the stamp (Paper placemats, T-shirts,
or anything else you want to stamp.)
Double
stick tape
Directions:
1. With younger children (younger than 10) consider attaching the rubber
stamp block firmly to the table with double stick tape. It is easier
for a child to carve if the block is stationary and they don't have to
hold the block down. Older kids using proper cutting technique may not
need the block attached. Have the kids draw a very simple design (stick
with basic shapes) onto the stamp. Designs that work well for example
are leaf shapes, geometric variations of shapes, and basic symbols.
2. When the children are ready to carve, demonstrate proper cutting technique.
Remember to always cut away from your body. If you have to hold down the
stamp block with one hand to keep it from moving, keep your hand out of the
way, i.e. make sure that you are still cutting away from all your body parts.
*Speedball publishes detailed information on tips for working with their
materials and I highly recommend that if you have not carved a stamp or a
linoleum block before that you read some additional information on block
printing or contact Speedball Co. for a free brochure.
3. You can check the image on your stamp by inking the surface with a dye
based ink pad. This will allow you to see the definition of the stamp and
indicate how your image will actually print as you cut away your design.
(Don't worry, you will still be able to see your pencil lines underneath
the dye). When all the interior lines have been cut away and you are ready
to print, use a craft knife to cut out the outline of your shape.
4. Ink your stamp on an inking pad (readily available in a range of sizes
and colors from rubber stamp stores). Apply even pressure over the stamp
as you are transferring your image for the best results.
