Decorating Glass With Rubber Stamps

Hand Stamped Candle Holder With Purple Ink

Today, I was inspired to play around with using rubber stamps to decorate glass, while making a gift for my mom. I am going to share with you some of the tips and tricks to get the project finished the way you want, with a stamp that will last. After I was finished, I washed the exterior with soap and water and the ink didn't budge! It did appear somewhat duller, so I cannot recommend a project that will require repeated washings.

The total cost of materials for the project was 40.00, but I can use the basic equipment over and over.
Ink for glass = 10.00
Rubber stamp set= 3.00
Heat Gun= 25.00
Votive holder= 2.00

-Choose the correct type of ink for glass. I choose the brand Stayz-On (purchased on Etsy.com). Alcohol inks will work too. Make sure the ink packaging says it is permanent ink and will work on glass.

- Frosted glass makes the stamp show up better and gives some grip to the surface, so your stamp doesn't "slip". You can stamp clear glass, too, but the design will not show up as well.

- You can use regular rubber stamps or foam stamps.

- Make sure your glass is clean and dry before stamping.

- Use a light touch when stamping and don't "grind" the stamp in. The ink could bleed or smear.

- To quickly dry the ink, use an embossing gun or heat gun, to heat the ink for about 30 seconds, until it is shiny. This "heal seals" the ink for extra longevity and makes sure the ink dries quickly, without smudges. You can buy a heat gun at any home improvement store. You don't need a top of the line heat gun for crafts, one in the 20-30 dollar range will be just fine. Be careful around paper and flammables with the heat gun. They get VERY hot!

Heat Gun