Ink Stamped Unwanted Photos
Ink stamping on tissue paper is a fantastic way to hide imperfections in a photo while keeping its focal point intact. With this simple technique, you can transform less-than-perfect pictures into charming journal cards or postcards.
Materials You'll Need:
- Photos or images of your choice
- Ink
- Stamps (at least one background stamp)
- Stencils (optional)
- Glue stick
- Tissue paper
- Scissors
- Low tack tape
Instructions:
-
Select Your Image
Choose a photo with a clear focal point. You can attach tissue paper directly to the image with a glue stick, or use a hinge method (as demonstrated in the video tutorial) for easier adjustments. Tape everything down to keep the photo in place. -
Pick Your Inks
Select three ink colors: light, medium, and dark. Opt for two neutral tones, then choose a bright shade for contrast. -
First Stamp Layer
Using your lightest ink and a background stamp, stamp around the focal point. Randomize the edges if you'd like. You can either stamp at full strength or use a "ghost" technique for a softer look. -
Add Text Stamps
Use bold text stamps in a medium ink color, stamping randomly around your focal point. For a balanced composition, aim for odd numbers—stamp each word three times as you move around the image. -
Final Stamp Layer
Choose your boldest ink color and additional stamps to add more detail. If any areas feel too sparse, go back and fill them in with your medium or focal color. -
Attach Tissue Paper
Once the stamping is complete, glue the tissue paper onto the image. Let it dry thoroughly. Use a creamy glue stick to apply a final coat over the entire photo to avoid smudging the ink. This will seal your design, make the colors pop, and give the tissue paper some transparency, allowing the image beneath to show through. -
Finishing Touches
Add a border or some texture using stencils if you’d like.
This project is a perfect way to give flawed photos new life and turn them into beautiful, personalized ephemera for your journals or crafts.
Happy paper crafting!