A note from Ryn:
Unmounted Sheet
Water Effects 1 includes 4 rubber stamp designs from Ryn Tanaka - Water Droplets, Sideways Droplets, Rising Bubbles and Hanging Drops Set. They come organized as seen above on an unmounted rubber sheet measuring 5.5" by 8.5". The stamps can be separated with a pair of sharp scissors. This product does not include any backing or cling-mount for mounting the stamps.
Deeply Etched
All of the stamps are made from natural gum rubber and are deeply etched into the surface. Deep etch technology captures a high level of detail in each design and ensures clean imprints by setting the image at a depth that is twice the industry standard. Natural gum rubber is also extremely durable and flexible making it ideal for use on a variety of materials. With proper care each stamp can be printed hundreds of times without losing image quality.
Printing the Stamps
To maximize the 3D effect, stamp with dark ink over a grey or coloured background. If making your own background with water-based paints/inks, stamp with an oil based ink such as Versa Fine or Archival. This will allow you to remove some of the colour from inside the droplet or add colour without the design washing away. The ink creates the darkest shadows of the drops and the background naturally makes the middle tone. Lastly, the highlight is very important to "pop" out the image. Use a white gel pen or white paint to colour in the little dot at the top of the drops.
For Use with Clay
This product is best printed onto the surface of a clay project instead of pressed into it. The 3D effect of the droplets is created by many tiny points. There is not enough room for clay to squeeze between the points in order to capture the effect.