Digital stamps do have some limitations. One of these is the fact that as the images are printed instead of being stamped with ink, effects such as heat embossing are difficult to achieve. However, while they are difficult, they are not impossible! By using a glossy paper and acting fast it is possible to heat emboss digital stamps. An alternative way of heat embossing digital stamps is to use an embossing ink pen - see How to Emboss Using an Embossing Ink Pen.
Heat Embossing
Heat embossing is a popular technique used by stampers (see Heat Embossing for more information). This gives a shiny raised image which adds a professional finishing touch to projects. It is also useful when coloring projects as the raised lines help to give a clean definition. Heat embossed images can also be used as a resist.
Heat embossing digital images helps to give a hand stamped look to the finished item. As the image is printed and not physically stamped, however, the embossing powders need to be added when the printer ink is still wet. As printer ink dries almost instantly on porous paper, heat embossing only works on non-porous paper such as glossy printer paper, vellum or other shiny surfaces.
Tips for Embossing Digital Stamps
In order to heat emboss digital stamps successfully, it is important to do the following:
- Use glossy or non porous paper
- Act fast!
- Be prepared to experiment (printers, inks and even the climate can effect the time it takes ink to dry)
Materials Required
- Digital stamp
- Printer
- Non porous paper
- Embossing powder
- Heat tool
Stamp Credit: MyGrafico.com
