The Powder TrickAlways dust your stamp (or the clay surface) with cornstarch or potter's release. This ensures a clean release and keeps intricate details sharp.
Rock, Don't SlidePress firmly and gently rock the stamp side-to-side to catch every edge. Avoid sliding, which can smudge the clean impression.
Timing is KeyStamping works best on leather-hard clay—soft enough to take the impression, but firm enough not to distort the surrounding shape.
Water is the EnemyWood swells with water. Never soak your wooden stamps. Clean them with a barely damp sponge and dry them immediately to prevent warping.
Oil for LongevityOccasionally treat your wooden tools with linseed or olive oil. It keeps the wood supple, water-resistant, and ready for years of use.
Test on Scrap FirstNew wooden stamps may have residual soot from the laser cutting process. This burns off after a few presses. Always test on scrap clay first before stamping your final piece.