Get ready, friends, because today’s post is going to be a lot of fun. I’m partnering with ImpressArt Metal Stamps on an awesome starter set giveaway, and we’re going to be talking FONTS! (Note: the giveaway period has closed. Please read on for tips on choosing a great font!)
See here’s the thing about most hobbies… when you find something you love, you begin amassing a lot of accessories for it. In my case, I want ALL THE FONTS. Haha. (Is that so bad, really?) But there’s a reason for it – each project is truly enhanced by the font you choose for it. We do the same thing in graphic design… we pick a font that says something on its own to help make our message visually better, right? And then, because we’re also stampers, we have the satisfaction of taking hammer to metal to make these fonts happen. Bam. It’s so satisfying.
I get a lot of comments from new stampers advising other new stampers to save money by buying an economy stamp set from a tool outlet. That’s not bad advice. But I want to take a moment to point out, that’s an uppercase-only letter (and possibly number) set. It’s actually the first thing I started out with, myself! The price point can’t be beat, that’s for sure – but when you buy from a tool outlet, you’ll most likely end up with a very industrial-looking set, which translates to industrial-looking pieces. Which is cool if that’s what you’re going for. But if you’re getting into metal stamping for things like gifts and keepsakes, then you generally want a softer message. So really take a look before you make any investment, because other than my first couple practice pieces, I used my industrial tool-outlet stamp set exactly zero times for real pieces. It’s the only thing I own in my stamping supplies that I feel was actually a waste of money, rather than a savings.
I… well, here’s my confession. I’m going to show you my fonts. (And please don’t judge that I haven’t yet mastered my newest addition, the Varsity font. I’m still getting used to it, haha.) Take a look, and see what your font is saying, before you’ve even stamped a word.
Okay and if I’m being really honest… I have 3 sizes of the sans serif font. And looking to acquire a 1/4 inch set too, ahem. But what I did here was think about the statements that my fonts make. Then, I stamped that word on a sheet of copper. Kind of interesting, when you view it like that, huh? (I added labels of the font names after the fact for your reference, so you can find them if you spot one you love. You’re welcome.) Most of these I have upper and lower case for, but I stamped with what I most often use (which is overwhelmingly lowercase).
See, different pieces just inherently have their own tone and message. Using the different fonts adds the element I’m already going for with the word or statement I’m stamping. Here are some of my recent projects, to show you what I mean:
I’m not saying you should start buying all the fonts, but once you start with your economy set (and as usual, if you can’t afford both then I recommend trying out the lowercase, because that makes it look like you AREN’T SHOUTING) and find you like it… it’s time to choose maybe one font that you love. Consider your design style: is it sentimental, or edgy, or inspirational? Do you make pieces mainly for yourself, for friends, or for children? How can you take your flavor of design to the next level? Making one or two small upgrades can do amazing things to even basic techniques. Take a look at what I’ve done below – I swapped out the economy font for a designer font (I used ImpressArt’s Jeanie font) and I changed the beginner aluminum blank to a beginner pewter blank instead.
It’s just one word, stamped on a 3/4″ size disc. But the new details give the piece more depth and more character. All the while you’re still just stamping one word. And you – yes, you – can totally stamp a single word. (Think you can’t? I have a great beginners’ metal stamping tutorial to get you started!)
It’s kind of surprising, isn’t it? What a difference.
I love ImpressArt stamps because they’re easy to hold while you stamp, they’re marked clearly with the letter you need, and they have a great variety of designs. Many of which I do own. (Don’t judge.) And I love, love my stamping hammer.
I’d love to let you guys come over and stamp with me sometime to see which font is your favorite, but today, I’m going to do the next best thing: I’m going to hook you one of you readers up with a new stamping kit of your own, courtesy of ImpressArt!
You’ll want to do a couple things here: first, take a peek at all the beautiful fonts ImpressArt has to offer, and check them out socially on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Then, let Rafflecopter guide you through how to get your entries in to make the Jeanie font your own as part of this great beginners’ kit! The giveaway is open to US readers and friends, just get your entries in by June 12th at 11:59pm EST. Good luck, and happy stamping!
Ali G says
Hi, such lovely pieces :) what font did you use for the bracelet, the Bad ass Unicorn one? I love it!
Thanks, Ali
Sarah says
Hi there would you recommend – 3mm stamp set to start out or 4mm?
Adrianne says
I recommend you choose whichever one you like better! The size difference between 3-4 mm is really minor. Either size is a good beginner size. So choose the font you love best!
Cindy says
Hi Adrianne! I’m just starting out and came across your post. This was the most helpful information I’ve come across! I’ve been trying to decide if aluminum is the way I want to go and after seeing your examples I can finally see the difference. I won’t use aluminum. And I couldn’t decide which font to start with. You explain things extremely well! You have no idea how much you’ve helped me! Thanks! Cindy
Adrianne says
Hi Cindy!
Aluminum is fantastic for practice because it’s inexpensive. If you goof, you’ve only lost 20 cents or so. But for gifts, I like other metals. I love stamping pewter, and recently ImpressArt rolled out their own signature alloy called Alkeme – it’s lead free and it looks like sterling silver. It’s got a nice weight to it (unlike aluminum) and it’s way cheaper than sterling. It’s a nice option in the middle for beginners!
Thanks for the note, and good luck!
Angi I says
Such fun! Hope to get started soon.
Dana C says
I am loving Jeanie or Bridgette. I can’t decide which one I like best.
cindyzs says
Ballroom Boogie and angel stamps!
cindyzs says
Ballroom Boogie and angel stamps
Denise says
What great information! And a fun read even! I’m so excited to start stamping! Thanks for the great info ????
Timber Chapa says
I would love Script or Scarlett’s Signature! But first I need to upgrade to Impress Arts hammer and stamping block.
jessica jaworski says
I haven’t done any stamping yet. I have just started making simple bracelets and necklaces for my daughters, but SO want to try the stamps. My girls would love it. My favorites are the “sweet & sassy” designs I guess he cause I have girls and these are so girly.
Natalie Brown says
Hi! This is such a cool crafting idea!! One of my favorites is their Shabby Chic Metal Stamp with the Floral Swirl design. So fun! Thanks!
Alexandra says
While I haven’t done any metal stamping yet, I’d like to! Especially after being inspired with some of the tutorials/projects here on Happy Hour. I suppose I am first drawn to either the Classic font or the Simple font.
Kathy White says
I love the Scarlett’s Signature font. Great products!
Ang says
I love the Jeanie font the most but honestly I can see liking them all for different projects!
Ang
Annie says
I love the snowflake stamp!
Sarah says
I love the IA Bridgette style.
Emily says
I’m partial to the classic style myself!
Sabrina Hoeke says
These are all so beautiful, but my favorite is the Bridgette lettering set. I have a cheap, cheap, cheap set of metal stamps from Harbour Freight, and I’ve been coveting these lovlies for a while now. I really want to get into stamping!
Amber Pardeik says
Love all the different fonts, I am gonna have to get myself a couple new ones!
Darci says
I would love the Bridgette uppercase font!
Rhonda Krieg says
I like Jeanie and sweet.
shara says
hearts & symbols I like too.
shara says
I live the whimsical & chabby chic fonts, actually I love them all, I want to win so bad ! I have been making jewelry for a long time now But havent been able to afford any metal working fonts supplies in so long due to always paying for my drs appts, so I would be estactic to win, this and have some new jewelry to make & sell.
Amanda (Moming About) says
I’ve been wanting to get into stamping for awhile now. It’s such a great hobby/craft!
Shirley says
I don’t have any so anything would be a plus for me. Thanks for the giveaway.
Michele says
Ooh, I want Scarlett’s Signature!
Gael says
Pick me.. Pick me.. Pick me! I want to win! :)
Maureen Hayes says
I like Scarlett’s Signature! I hope I win, I so wanna try metal stamping but can’t afford the tools to start.
Maureen says
They are all cool, but I kinda like Scarlett’s Signature!
Karen says
I absolutely LOVE your blog! I get your emails, g+, and I have enjoyed the past Crafty Hours you have done! THANK you so much for this post! I have been wanting to start this craft (mostly thanks to YOU!) :) and with all your helpful tips and thoroughness I hope to start soon. I will definitely post some pics so you can see how well you’ve helped!
Thanks so much… looking forward to your future beautiful creations!
Tamara says
Thanks for offering this as a giveaway. I’ve been wanting to try metal stamping but haven’t known where to start! This was helpful.
Debbie w says
Love them all….Scarlett was cute! Pick me, I want to make all kinds of jewelry!
MartiC says
newsprint for sure
Kirsten says
I love Bridgette! It’s such a bubbly, summery font
Ruth E. Chidley says
I really like the Royal Crest but would be Happy with any of them.
Sonya Neal says
OH YAY!!!!! Love this!!! What a great post! I so want to start this craft! been looking at it for a while and I am in LOVE with it! Would like to purchase the Bridgett and or the Jeanie font sets!
Mary Ann Atzrott says
Just love the IA Bridgette font…. this is so cool, would love to be able to do that!!!
Carrie says
Thank you for this opportunity! :)
Iveth Caruso says
I would love to win! The Varsity font is my absolute favorite. Thank you for such great giveaway
Amy says
I really like the tri-swirl design and the Jeanie & Scarlett’s Signature fonts.
Thanks for the chance :-)
Jasmine Hodges says
Its a tie between Bridgette and Scarlett’s Signature. Both are fun looking fonts :)
Steph says
Love Scarlett’s Signature font!
Donna Arena says
I have Ballroom Boogie but I’d love Bridgette, Scarlet or maybe Royal Crest…seriously difficult to choose Impress Art has some AWESOME choices!!!
Melanie says
Love the Jeanie!!
Karin says
I have several sets of fonts and some ImpressArts for stainless. I always seem to gravitate towards my 2mm font set that is capital letters. I would love more fonts in this size. It would be fun to have to choose which font to use rather than just what fits best!
Stephanie says
Jeanie is definitely on my wishlist!
paula sims blaxton says
This is all new to me! But Newsprint looks like fun!
Betsy says
I”ve been wanting to try stamping for forever now! I’d totally get some of the symbols and the Greek letters!!
Michelle says
What a great giveaway! Forwarding this to a friend too!
Lynn Desroche says
I love Scarlett’s Signature and Ballroom Boogie. Thank you for the chance to win!
Bonnie says
Royal Crest looks fun!
Tara says
I LOVE newsprint! So fabulous!
What a great giveaway, Adrianne! So much fun!
Dionne Siegrist says
I would love to try that Jeanie font so its going on my wishlist
debbie says
i like them all :) how can i pick just one?
Jodie says
Bridgette is awesome
Melody Kittles says
I love the moon and shooting star stamps in the Space & Beyond category. I think those would be lots of fun…for starters. :)
Barbara says
I like the Bridgette. is that the 1 you used on ‘sparkle & shine”? Also want the doxie, song bird & sleeping cat. Now, to hit the lottery….
Jenn Phillips says
Love the Bridgette! Stamp happy yoga mamma!
Tara DK says
Awesome! This is something I’ve wanted to try for a long while ;)
Mary Lou Moore says
So excited about the new line! Would love to have them all!
sus says
I really like all the metal stamping that you have shown. Thanks for the chance to win a stamping set!
Kathleen McGowan says
I love the way you have presented this, especially the comparison photo. Really gives me something to think about when I start a project. What stamp is next on my wish list? Its hard to decide, I want so many. :-) I think one of the cats, either the Sleeping Cat or the Cat Face but I really like the Butterfly Swirl 2. Oh, they are like potato chips, you always want one more. :-)
Melissa Myers says
The Bridgette is adorable!
Melissa Mason says
I love the Jeanie font!
Nique Et says
Really like the Jeanie font
Kay says
I love that Jeannie font and would love to be able to create some projects with it.
Dorothy {ZzzonkOwl} says
I was wondering if you’d consider adding me to one of your Pinterest boards? The one titled “My Favorite Bloggers.” Of course, only if you like my blog: ZzzonkOwl.blogspot.com
Thanks so much!
Dorothy {ZzzonkOwl} says
Ohhh, I hope I win this! I just sold my other ImpressArt kit that was 3mm because it was too small. I want to purchase either 4, 5, or 6mm but financially can’t at this point LOL. So *fingers crossed*!!!
Sara Golden says
I have been dying to get my hands on metal stamping supplies! I think it’s my next project . I love Bridget and the old favorite Newsprint. What a cool giveaway!
Kim Cowgar says
I have been eyeing Scarlett’s Signature – Uppercase and Lowercase
Alisa says
Digging on Corsiva for sure!
ChiWei says
I like the Scarlett signature. Did you know I was OBSESSED with GWTW once upon a time? :-)
Jennifer Reynolds says
I love the Scarlette!
Kristy says
I love the shabby chic designs!
Anne says
I like simple or newsprint!
Kristin C. says
Loving the Bridgette!
Ashley says
I like to keep things simple…the newsprint font is my favorite!
Mischelle Andrade says
I have over 30,000 fonts on my external… being a graphic designer I just love fonts… I love love love the Bridgette or Jeanie.
MARIA SOTO says
agree fonts make the project – my favorite to get is the Jeanie.
Karla says
I love to add to my collection of metal stamps. I enjoy your post and your projects.
Kim H says
I love ImpressArt! I have a few but looking into a few more in upper and lower. Love the newsprint and lowercase Jeanie! What a great giveaway!
Mandee says
I love the varsity letters.
Rachel says
I would love the newsprint letter stamps!! What a fun giveaway!!
Becki C says
This is a wonderful giveaway! Thank you for your lovely blog entries…this is an entertaining and informative one on stamping on metal.
Jen says
This looks like so much fun!
Julie says
Love your site! I make handmade jewelry and wanted to get into stamping to bring something new to my jewelry and I’ve thought many times about buying the economy set because of the price but I always talk myself out of it for one reason or another, but I still would like to try it.
Timber says
I am so into all of ImpressArts fonts! I can’t pick just one to order first! And then there is all the adorable design stamps!
Carly C says
I’m loving the sassy! I dabble in jewelry making and would love to try this!
Jenn Quinn says
the jeanie font is calling my name.
Jean McNult says
I love Jeanie’s whimsical font:)
Vicki Cox says
I like the Newsprint.
Sonya says
It’s a tie between Scarlett’s Signature and Bridgette
Shannon Brey says
Love the newsprint!
Brenda says
What a great giveaway!! I love all the fun fonts!
Lindsey Davis says
Love the IA Bridgette font
M says
Love the IA Jeanie font.
Isabela Rayne-and Anna-Zetterberg says
Thank you the chance to win this great giveaway!
Isabela Rayne-and Anna-Zetterberg says
I really love all the fonts, but I have been wanting the Jeanie and Bridgette
Kati says
I’m the same way with the stamps! I only have one, and made the mistake of buying cheap industrial. I’ll have to save up and buy something cute!
Karen3848 says
While I want ALL THE FONTS, I really NEED the Newsprint set.
beth combs says
Metal Stamping Kit w/ Bridgette Boogie Lowercase Stamp Set
Destiny says
I’d love to start out with the Bridgette font set!
Kimberly S says
I love the Bridgette font, but they are all cute! Thank you for the awesome giveaway!!
Barbara R says
I like the Bridgette font! Thanks for the tutorials, love your site!
Terri Mitchell says
WhImSiCaL!!!??? I LoVe this font!
Allison says
I like the way Corsiva looks! I’d love to try that one :)
Barbara tower says
I love the whimsical font
gayla says
I have not been stamping for long and am already thinking of all the stamps I would like to use! You hit the nail on the head – the simple industrial set/font was great to learn with but I rarely use it in my projects. It was an inexpensive way to see if metal stamping was for me.
Courtney says
The stick family sets are cute!
Kris Reynolds says
I like the Jeanie and the Bridgette fonts.
Jennifer W says
I really like the Jeannie font!
Kara says
I like the sassy font!
Ellen says
I love Jeannie! I want to make herb markers. Thanks for the inspiration and for the chance to win.
Mitzi says
I love these–the ‘sweet’ is my favorite :)
Sandi Allen says
Love the Bridgette font.
Cara says
I really like the Jeanie font
Sheri Brown says
Love the sassy and Jeanie fonts!
Stacey I says
I love IA Newsprint
Michelle says
Looks like fun! Would love to try it!
Jennifer says
I love it when you do ImpressArt giveaways! It makes my heart… happy, happy, happy! <3 <3 <3
I would love to welcome Jeanie to live at my home with the rest of my metal stamping supplies. Im sure she’d fit right in! I hope to add Ballroom Boogie in the near future!
Happy Stamper,
Jennifer Hubbell
Jeni says
Love the newsprint font!
Kelsey says
So fun!! I’ve been wanting to get into stamping. I don’t have one, but it like the looks of the Bridget letting! It’s so pretty and I can think of so many projects to do with it. :)
michelle says
the sporty absolutely being the momma of a boy who LUVS all sports that’s the one that I would use most
Jill (MamaGing.com) says
I have an industrial set and have not used it yet. I really like the Bridgette font but if I had the Jeanie, it might inspire me to actually make something! ;)
dora rossi calcedonia design says
would love to try this .. looks like fun
dora rossi calcedonia design says
would love to try this.. looks like fun
dora rossi calcedonia design says
Would love to try this craft .. looks like fun
christine says
I love the Bridgette font!
April says
The angel stamp will be my next purchase!
Betsy says
I like the sassy and the sporty. This looks like sooo much fun.
Tiff Hill says
That looks like so much fun. I want to win it! :)
Melanie says
The Newsprint looks cool!
Elizabeth G. says
I like the SWEET style.
Carolyn Lawson says
I like the IA Bridgette font.
Carolyn
Carolynscreations@live.com
Pat schwab says
I like the sweet or newsprint. Thanks
Diane says
I love the Newsprint font!