From the page: Styrofoam that turns into creative gold
Idea 3
Cut-out shape stamps
Styrofoam is a plastic foam full of air bubbles, so it holds ink evenly without absorbing it — perfect for stamping. Typographers and craftspeople have always improvised printing plates with lightweight, easy-to-cut materials, and the tray follows that same logic: what's left over becomes a printing plate.
What you need
- A clean, dry styrofoam tray
- Ballpoint pen or pencil
- Scissors or craft knife (with adult help, if needed)
- Gouache paint, fabric paint or stamp pad
- Paper, fabric or kraft paper to print on
How to make it
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1
Draw the chosen shape (leaf, heart, letter) on the bottom of the tray pressing with the pen: the deep groove already helps the ink not pool in the lines.
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2
Cut out the shape with scissors or craft knife, leaving a support edge so your finger doesn't slip when stamping.
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3
Apply the ink with a brush or by pressing on the stamp pad, in a thin, even layer — styrofoam doesn't absorb ink, so a little goes a long way.
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4
Press firmly and steadily onto the paper for a few seconds: constant pressure ensures complete transfer of the shape.
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5
Rinse the plate quickly between colors so tones don't mix.
Finishing touches
glue a small piece of styrofoam or cork on the back as a handle, and turn the stamp into a series of stamps for gift wrapping or bookmarks.
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