This week's post is a brief description along with photos of how to stamp on ceramic bisque using our stamps. Not all of the stamps that we make will work but many will. Sweet Everlastings is our first set that was made for both ceramic bisque and paper arts.
First, if using the stamps for bisque, trim the outer edge of the stamp with small scissors to keep from shadowing. You will be "rocking and or rolling" the stamp slightly and sometimes this will cause shadowing, so trimming the round rubber edge is very helpful. The great thing about bisque is that you can wipe or scrape off imperfections and start again if necessary.
The photo above is a teacup and small bowl that I decorated with the Sweet Everlastings set.
You can see in the photo above that I also decorated the inside base of the teacup. Normally this area would be impossible to decorate but with our peg stamps, it is easy :)
Ink cups with foam are used to ink up the stamp. Wash the ends of the stamps with mild detergent (like Joy dishwasing liquid and water) and dry to remove an oily residue that may keep the underglaze from adhering to the rubber before beginning your project.
Normally, I start with about one teaspoon of underglaze and add it to the ink cup and foam. Shake the underglaze well, add it to the foam, and then blend it in with a small spatula or tool until it is absorbed into the foam. Ink up the stamp on the foam and test on a piece of paper. If it is too thin, add more underglaze and if it is too wet to see a clear image, use another piece of foam to absorb some of the extra moisture. Test again until the right consistency is obtained.
After stamping your design and allowing it to dry, use a mop brush or similar brush to apply a clear glaze.
Pure Brilliance is a wonderful clear glaze that fires to cone 06 (1828 degrees F)
Stay tuned for more indepth instructions on how to stamp on ceramic bisque. If you do not own a kiln, take our stamps and ink cups to your local Paint your own Pottery or CCSA studio and choose your bisque, decorate it and let them glaze and fire it for you! All of the CCSA Studios should have Duncan Concept, Amaco, Gare or a comparable underglaze that will work. Isn't this exciting? I can't wait to make a complete dinnerware set for myself :)
Until next week, Happy Stamping from Susan and rest of the gang at Rubber Stamp Tapestry!
