too straight technique

so i have to admit i am ocd when it comes to stamping...ok, in a lot of things...but getting objects lined up perfectly is pretty important. when stamping words or names do you opt for punching the letters out or staggering them so you don't have to line them up? yep, that's me too!

so when mom calls and wants a word...all in one line...i was fine until i sat down and picked up the first alpha block. hmm...there has to be a quick way to do this... i got out my grid board and a clear plastic FLAT ruler. its important its flat...that's why i capatilized it.

i put my ruler two squares up from the bottom of my paper (i noted that because i had to place my "i" then move the ruler so it would completely stamp..just the "i"...it must be needy. then i knew where to put my ruler for the next one). make sure you load your stamp evenly with ink and wipe off any excess you get on the sides. line the bottom of the rubber up with the edge of the ruler. not the edge of the wood because each stamp may be in a different place. then press. if your ruler is too thick it won't let the image stamp completely so practice first...mine's pretty thick and it was ok. load the next stamp..ok now this takes some concentration...watch the spacing inbetween each letter and make sure not to squish or spread them. the ruler markings help here.

suggestions: stamp each letter you will be using on a scrap piece first to see if your letters are straight on the blocks...my "u" is a little crooked on the block so i have to compensate. i could straighten it but i haven't.

note: the stampa-ma-jig would also work for this...but i don't have one...yes, its on the list