Natural Materials Stamping Artists Use To Create Unique Designs

By Jessica Cook


Most people have seen interesting stamped designs on stationary and textiles and wondered how it was done. Some designs are intricate while others seem so simple you think you should be able to do it yourself. The truth is you can. With some inexpensive tools, fruits, vegetables and blocks you can create the same kinds of designs that make stamping artists so in demand.

Stamping paper and textiles with fruits and vegetables will make interesting and creative designs. You might decorate your child's backpack or create a wall hanging using linen or some textured fabric. An apple is a good fruit choice for these kinds of projects. All you have to do is halve the apple making sure the cut is smooth. Brush paint on the inside of the apple and stamp.

Pencil erasers are natural stamps. You don't have to do anything but dip them in paint and apply them to paper or fabric. Small projects like greeting cards, stationary and wrapping papers will give you the best results. You could even invite your kids to join you in the fun. They may be too young to write, but they can control the pencil enough to make dot patterns on paper.

The most beautiful designs imaginable are found in nature. Vegetables can be used to create intricate and delicate designs that can't be replicated. Instead of consigning an old cabbage to the trash can, cut the top off and use it as a stamp. Once the top is off all the layers will be exposed, and you can create flower-like designs on paper, canvas, or fabric.

If you have a button box filled with old buttons, you could go through them and pick out some with interesting designs. Dip them in the paint, or brush them if you prefer, and apply to paper. This is another project that works best on small things like cards, wrapping papers, and stationary. Buttons are harder to control and messier than pencil erasers, so this might not be the best project for small kids.

Walking around your backyard should give you all kinds of ideas for stamps. Leaves are a great example. You can incorporate leaves from several different trees or stick to just one variety. With some leaves and small branches for stamps, you can create larger pieces like sheer panels for French doors.

You can even create your own permanent stamps by carving wood blocks, tile, linoleum, and even bars of soap into whatever design interests you. You are going to need an X-acto knife with different blades and a little brayer, along with paint, to do the job. After you complete your project, you can wash and dry your stamp and put it away for later use.

If you love arts and crafts, stamping is a simple, inexpensive hobby with untold possibilities. You may never be a professional, but you might end up with some interesting results. A homemade stamp, paint, paper, and plenty of imagination are all you need.




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