We are always getting lots of inquiries as to the best way to assemble our stamp sets once they arrive. Since we had so many *newbies* make purchases this release, I thought I would share a little tutorial on the easiest steps to take in this quick & easy process!
When you receive one of our stamp sets, all of the components are packaged together in a large clear box. Components include the stamps on acetate sheets, a CD case for storage, and a scroll containing index label(s) and an instruction/tip sheet for using clear stamps.
The first thing you want to do is remove the band from the scroll and separate the labels and instructions. A $15 set generally has one index label and a $24 set two. One of the labels will have a spine title, noted by the rectangular frame around it. You want to trim this from the rest of the label using scissors, a paper trimmer or craft knife. Whichever way you choose to cut, just be sure that you do it fairly close to the black outline so that it ends up being thin enough for the spine.
Once trimmed, just peel and stick the title to the spine of the CD case, as shown here.
Next, you will want to apply the label you just trimmed the spine title from, to the front cover of the CD case. Do NOT peel away the paper backing all at once, you will want to remove it gradually. Start by peeling back about 1/2" of the paper backing and adhering just that portion to the edge of you CD case cover. This is your chance to make sure that it is nice and straight.
Fold the entire label over onto itself and start pulling downward, pulling the paper backing out as you go. Since you have the label folded over as you are pulling down, the pressure of that keeps the label nice and flat, with no chance of air bubbles.
At the very end, just pull the very last of the paper backing out. Front index label now complete! If your set has two labels, the remaining label with get applied to the outside back cover in the same manner as described above. A little tip to remember, when you have very long stamp images in the set, it is best to apply the label so that they are running horizontally. This gives them a bit more room on either end.
After you have applied your label(s), it is time to put your stamps inside the case. Just peel each of the images carefully from the acetate housing sheets and match them up with their index label counterpart on the interior of the case. Once in a while you might need to adjust the arrangement a bit, but all of the images should fit within the case.
Here is the completed assembly. One more additional note, when clear stamps are brand new, the two layers of stamps can sometimes stick together after the case has been closed. After the images have been broken-in a bit and used, they will no longer do this, but in the interim, you can cut both of the acetate housing sheets to fit in between the two layers if you like, one sheet for the left and one sheet for the right.
I hope a few of you will find this helpful as you prepare to ink up your brand new purchases! Enjoy!
