Type of Stamp Ink to Use With Watercolors

Not all inks are created equal. There are at least four major types of stamp ink that all create different effects. Some inks are thicker and made for adding texture, and some inks are transparent and made to be mixed. Then there are just basic inks that are flat and dark in color and look like what you would expect "ink" to look like. Getting to know the ink varieties should be your first step in experimenting with color and texture in water colors.

Stamp ink padStamp ink is exactly what it sounds like. It's your basic stamp ink. This the ink that comes in just about every color in nifty little compact pads. This the ink your first-grade teacher used to stamp a smiley face on your homework. However, as basic as this ink is, this also makes one of the most versatile inks. It comes in a large variety of colors, prints well over all different textures of papers and lays well over other inks.

Pigment ink bottlesCraft ink (a.k.a. pigment ink) has the deepest of pigments. This ink is thicker and takes longer to dry. Many artist enjoy etching into the ink as it drys to create texture. Some people add sand or sparkles to the craft ink while it drys for another effect. This ink also layers well for a 3-D effect if you have the patience to wait for it dry.

VersaMark ink padVersaMark technically isn't ink, but it is widely coveted by water color stamp enthusiasts. VersaMark is a clear "ink"-like substance that doesn't take color. The result after dipping your stamp into the VersaMark pad is a clear embossed image. VersaMark is also great for sealing envelopes for a classic signature look.

StazOn ink padStazOn is a permanent ink; this ink will stain your stamps. A way to remember its function is to think of it as ink that "stays on." The benefit to using StazOn is its brightness of color, which other inks do not have. This is also the ink to use when decorating walls, textiles, clothing and ceramics.

Stamps can easily be cleaned with soap and water. Stamp pads themselves do not need to be cleaned; however, it is recommended you do not mix stamp inks on the ink pads because this can cause them to become off-color and inconsistent in texture. It is also recommended that you keep the lids on your stamp shut when you are not using them to prevent the inks from drying out.