Make stamps by using Shapeways and Sugru

Hi, I like stamps a lot, so I was happy to find out, that there is an easy and cheap way to make stamps by using Shapways and Sugru!

The "stampmaker" is a very simple 3D modell. You can use free software like Blender or Google SketchUp to design it. With the Shapeways 3D printing service you can realize almost any incredible idea you get! Shapeways provides a "Detailed Material" (Acrylic-based photopolymer) which is perfect for making a mold for stamps. The stampmaker at the example has the dimension 30 x 30 mm (1.2 x 1.2 in) and is 2 mm (0.08 in) thick. The embossed parts should have a depth of 1 mm (0.04 in) As you'll see, 3D printing with this material is very inexpensive. After you've received your stampmaker, you'll be able to create your stamps with Sugru.  

Creating a stamp by using Sugru

What you need: 1. A negative mold (the stampmaker), made via Shapeways 3D printing service. 2. Sugru. 3. A handle which should fit to the size of the stamp. E.g. a piece of wood or you can create the handle via Shapeways, too. 4. Liquid soap. 5. A knife.

Put a thin layer (2 mm) of Sugru on a handle which should have approximately the same size as the stamp. Make sure the Sugru on the handle is smooth and plane.

Put some liquid soap on the stampmaker. This will help to detach the sugru from the mold. Press the stampmaker against the Sugru and remove it without destroying the imprint you made.

Grease some liquid soap on a plane surface and scrub the Sugru-Stamp against it. Don't use too much pressure! This will help to make the stamp perfect smooth and plane. Use a knife to cut away all unused Sugru on the edges of the stamp.

Don't forget to clean the stampmaker. This way, you can make as much stamps as you like. Almost done! Let it dry overnight and have fun with your new, handmade stamp! You'll need an ink pad with stamping ink for printing! Here is a picture of my first attempt. I'm already happy with the result, but I'm sure it can be still optimized. The good thing: you can make as much stamps as you like!

Michael