Rock-a-Block from Crafter's Companion

The Rock-a-Block from Crafter's Companion is an innovative rubber stamping block that has been designed to help produce consistent stamped images every time. Unlike traditional acrylic stamping blocks, the Rock-a-Block has a curved surface (similar to old fashioned business stamps) with a depth gauge (runners) that ensure that a uniform pressure is applied over the stamp which will help to produce consistent images. This will be welcome to stampers who find it difficult exerting an even pressure when stamping.

For more information about the Rock-a-Block stamp mounting system take a look at this illustrated review.

Crafter's Companion unmounted rubber stamps can be used with the Rock-a-Block rubber stamping block using the Stick and Spray glue that is sold as part of the system. Clear acrylic stamps are also ideal for use with the Rock-a-Block and these self clinging stamps are simply pressed onto the surface. Any other unmounted rubber stamp would also work well, although attention should be given to ensure that stamps mounted with a foam, such as EZ Mount, do not sit so that their surface is higher than the Rock-a-Block runners.

In order for the Rock-a-Block system to work, the stamps need to be temporarily fixed to the block with an adhesive. Crafter's Companion have a glue called Stick and Spray which has been formulated for this purpose. Simply spray the glue onto the back of the stamp and wait a few minutes before pressing it to the block. The stamp can be repositioned and washed up to 50 times before it needs respraying. If Stick and Spray glue isn't available then other adhesives such as repositionable sprays or glue sticks would also work well.

The Rock-a-Block kit comes complete with 4 different sized blocks including 6"x4", 6"x1½", 4"x3" and 1"x1". These are suitable for the needs of most stampers and the inclusion of the long thin block is ideal for adding text or borders to projects.

To use, the stamps are simply adhered to the surface of the block and then firmly 'rocked' over a sheet of paper. It is important to rock the stamp over the paper just once to avoid smudging the image or creating a shadow.

Tips for Using the Rock-a-Block Stamping Blocks

• Remember to repeatedly tap the ink pads onto the stamps to get a good covering of ink.
• Work on a flat surface. This is important with any stamping project - however it is crucial when working with the Rock-a-Block system to get the full benefit of the design.
• Any spray adhesive should be used in a well ventilated area.

The Rock-a-Block system is ideal for people who have trouble getting clear and consistent stamped images. It will be particularly useful for stampers who have trouble stamping larger images. Some stampers also find that holding flat acrylic blocks firmly enough to stamp a regular image can be difficult - particularly stampers with weak hands. Crafter's Companion also recommend this product for people with dexterity problems.

More information, including details of suppliers, can be found on the Crafter's Companion website.