Basic Stamping Technique Press stamp firmly into ink pad several times, and then stamp lightly on the pad several times to ensure even ink coverage. Check before stamping to be sure that all parts of the image are inked up. When inking large stamps, I like to lay the stamp flat on its back and tap the ink pad ONTO the stamp. Press your stamp straight down firmly, no rocking or twisting, to create a sharp image. Hold for a few seconds to allow time for the card stock to absorb the ink. I recommend stamping first onto scratch paper, to see what the image looks like and get the ‘feel’ of the stamp before beginning your project. Some stamps require more pressure, some less pressure to achieve that sharp image you’re looking for. This is called first generation or solid stamping . A second-generation impression is what you see the second time you use the stamp, without re-inking, it is a lighter impression. Third-generation is what you see the third time you use the st...