Saturday, September 30, 2006

Wheeling along ...

I love this new wheel, and stamp set with SPOTS! So adorable.

Stamping is amazingly quick and easy when using a Stampin' Around wheel. You can use the wheels with ink cartridges, or ... if you're like me {wink}, you can simply roll the wheel over a stamp pad. The wheels ink up just fine using a pad as long as you are making a card or other small item. The ink will run out if you're attempting a scrapbook page - so always use an ink cartridge for any items larger than 5 1/2 inches.

Directions:
1) Remove the cover of the ink cartridge and insert cartridge into the handle.
2) Snap the wheel into the handle.
3) Push the cartridge forward so the inked surface rests against the wheel.
4) Roll the wheel on scratch paper or Stampin' Up! Grid Paper to ensure it is thoroughly inked.
5) Push or pull (whichever works best for you) the wheel across your paper or card stock, starting before the edge of the paper and continuing off the other edge. Always roll in the same direction to keep the wheel thoroughly inked. Keep your wrist steady to avoid rocking the wheel. For best results, keep the cartridge well inked.
6) To wheel straight lines use the wheel guide {shown below}. You'll save yourself lots of time and stress with this guide.


Tips:
1) Roll the wheel slowly and firmly across the paper to achieve a darker image.
2) Place your forefinger on top of the handle while wheeling. This will help steady the wheel and prevent it from rocking and creating a smudged image. I find this is essential to a clear image.
3) To keep my cartridges moist when not in use, I seal them up in sandwich baggies.

4) If you're right handed, start rolling the image on your paper from right to left. This will enable you to see the image while rolling and your hand won't be in the way. If you are left handed, roll from left to right.

Wheels work great on an assortment of projects like on a scrapbook page, gift packaging, card, envelope, or letterhead. Stampin' Around wheels are not only versatile, but they're a great value too. While only one handle is necessary, sometimes you will find an extra handle is always useful for projects stamped with multiple wheels or when more than one family member wants to use a wheel.

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