WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES AND ADVANTAGES?
Functionality:
The clear-mount stamps are the same high-quality, die-cut rubber mounted on foam backing.
The clear-mount stamps adhere temporarily to the clear acrylic blocks using static. No sprays or adhesives needed. If you choose to add the labels, the image on the back of the stamp shows through the clear-mount block so you can place your stamp where you want it.
Not all stamps are created equal! If you've tried clear stamps before and been disappointed, it may have been because the polymer used for so many clear stamps doesn't offer the same quality stamped image as the quality of the rubber and foam combination insisted on by Stampin'Up!.
The Stampin'Up! clear-mount acrylic blooks are like jewels! HIgh quality, 3/4" thick acrylic, with finger grooves on all sides for comfort and control.
Clear-mount blocks are purchased separately from the stamps are are available in nine sizes to fit any of Stampin'Up!'s stamps. Blocks can be purchased individually or as a full set of nine at a bundle discount. Each clear-mount block is etched with the block size for your convenience.
Clean up is easy. Just scrub lightly on a Stampin' Scrub lightly sprayed with Stampin' Mist. You can also use tap water for less difficult stamp images. Don't make the scrub too juicy or the liquid can seep under the static image layer, and possibly run out which may mess up a nearby project.
If blocks become dirty from ink or the oils on your fingers, the residues will not allow the static to hold the stamp onto the block. Not to worry, just wash the block with dish washing liquid. If the static label on the stamp has residue, use a damp cloth or a paper towel with a bit of liquid dish soap diluted in water to wipe it off. Don't submerge the rubber stamp in water. Dry the block and the stamp and you are ready to stamp again!
Large clear-mount blocks are great for those who like to do collage stamping. Multiple images can be placed on one block. Stampers can design their look right on the block so they have to stamp only one time. This also works well with numbers and letters. You can spell out the words you want. Position them precisely on the blocks and only stamp once. No more trying to line letters up as you stamp one letter at a time.
I hope this information has been informative and helpful. Return tomorrow for Part 3, Storage.