| I have the Asian set. I think the idea behind the templates is for the standard size or smaller sizes, you would use the frame (stencil) of the template, and for larger or custom, use the punch out part. Hey, I'm really good with these technical terms, huh?! As far as sealing goes, I'm sorry, I don't know much about pigment inks, so I don't know how much help I can be there. I used Pigma Micron pens to ink my stamps, is that the same thing? I was careful to give it extra time to dry after I stamped. I also used Pearl Ex powders to stamp with. I used a very very thin (see-thru)sheet of translucent for my top layer, stamped one side with ink, and the other side with Pearl Ex. Because I used translucent, I plunged my pins straight into cold water from the oven. I haven't glazed all of them yet, but have had no problems with smudging. How thin did I roll the clay? Well, as I said, I rolled my top layer of translucent into see thru sheets. As for stretching? I placed my sheets of clay onto wax paper and cut them out there. If it's sticky or seems extra fragile, I stick it in the freezer for a minute or two, and transfer it right away when I take it out. I rolled each successive layer a little thicker, I think the thickest I went was about 1/16 of an inch. I LOVE the stamps! I used them on my ginger jars, stamping with Pearl Ex again, and got a really nice oriental look. I am definately looking forward to getting the other two sets after we move. I'd like to post some photo's in the gallery, but don't know how well they would turn out with my camera. DH said we'll get a better one after we move. BTW, I love your pins, you're a inspiration, girl!!! |
