Photos by Frankie Schneckloth
I’m willing to put money down—you’ve probably done this project before. In elementary school. But don’t be fooled! Just because it’s super easy and simple enough for a child doesn’t mean it can’t yield great results.
For a little refresher, read on, find yourself some potatoes and get stampin’!
What You Need
Step 1: Make the Design
Sketch out an image or a pattern you like on a piece of paper. You will eventually transfer this sketch to your potato. You’ll want to separate your image over multiple potatoes if you plan to incorporate different colored areas. For example: If you were looking to do an image of a flower, you might put the petals on one potato, and the stem on another. I chose a simple shape to make a graphic pattern.
Step 2: Prep your Potatoes
When you’ve finished sketching your image, cut your potato in half lengthwise. Here’s where you’ll transfer the sketch to the surface of the potato by laying the paper on the fresh cut and carving away what you don’t want to print. If you are using a cookie cutter, press the cutter into the potato and break away the excess. Remove the cutter and blot away any moisture.
Step 3: Stamp Away
If you are printing on fabric, put some fabric ink on a paper plate and dip the stamp to cover with ink. Make sure you get an even coat by moving it through the ink a few times. If you are printing a light color onto a dark-colored fabric or paper, you’ll want a healthy coating of paint. Since I was printing on paper, I used a stamp pad for more control over the final result. Wipe away any excess ink from the sides of the stamp, and you’re ready to stamp the shape onto fabric (with cardboard underneath or between layers) or paper. Press down firmly. Allow to dry before adding another color or any detail. Follow the directions noted on your fabric ink—some require heatsetting. Wash and dry according to directions.
Take it one step further
If you’ve created a pattern, try playing with different colors or making a gradient by lightening your paint subtly as you fill your fabric or paper.
What to do with your potato prints?
Sew printed fabric into pillows. Send paper prints as postcards to your friends. Make napkins. Stamp a bed sheet. Make your own stationery. Print tea towels. The possibilities are endless!
Frankie Schneckloth is leaving her stamp on the world.
