But what exactly does it DO? Well, maybe you've never been in this situation, but many-a-time I've ruined a project by stamping on an image that I didn't like...usually right at the very end! This Text Tester allows me to hold up different texts, scripts, etc., to see what they'll look like on a project before I actually stamp them on.
How does it work? Easy-peasy. I took some of my favorite text stamps and stamped them onto overhead transparency sheets using StazOn black ink. Then I organized all of the transparency-stamped images into pockets inside my booklet. For each background, I have the image stamped on the bottom of the pocket, along with its maker/brand and title at the top.
When I'm wondering if a certain text will look nice on a project I'm working on, I just whip out the transparency and hold it up to my project so I have a nice see-through visual of what the stamp would look like if I stamped it on.
This little "text tester" has already saved me a few deadly mess-up's and has helped me decide for sure which background looks best before I commit to stamping it on. This same project would work with any stamped image and is a great way to experiment with different images, placement, etc.
Some key things to keep in mind if you do try this yourself: first off, try and find some old transparencies somewhere to avoid having to buy your own. I saw them at some office supply stores and they were about $40 a box for 100. I wasn't going to use THAT many and didn't want to fork over $40 for just a handful of sheets. Luckily, I found a discarded old box of half-gone transparencies on the "freebie" table at my work.
Secondly, make sure that you use a permanent ink (such as StazOn) when you're stamping on a slick surface like transparencies. Once dry, StazOn ink stays put and won't smear.
I enjoyed this project and incorporated so many wonderful text and script stamps, along with other supplies, that you can get at Simon Says Stamp:
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So what does the "flourish" theme mean to you? I love to see what you come up with, so be sure to share your projects with us on the Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge blog for a chance to win $50 of shopping goodness!
