Some projects just make you stop scrolling because the creativity is that good, and this hat box upcycle from IOD Artisan Jonathon Marc Mendes is one of them! We know many makers are always searching for techniques to get crisp stamp impressions, build layers with stamps, and keep letter spacing clean. Heck, we’ve all been there!

We love this tutorial because it’s brimming with the kind of stamping know-how you’ll want in your back pocket—composition tips, clean letter impressions, stamping on curved surfaces, and small tweaks that make a big difference when you’re in the middle of a project. 

For example, Jonathon shares that one of the easiest ways to get clean impressions is to ink up your stamp on a completely flat surface. He uses a glass plate to apply ink evenly before stamping the hat box, making sure every bit of detail is fully coated before he moves on. It’s one of those simple little tweaks that make a big difference, and he shares plenty more throughout the tutorial. We hope Jonathon’s tutorial answers a few stamping questions and gives you that extra boost of confidence to try it. 

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• Lace Stamp 
• Insignia Stamp 
• Apothecary Labels Stamp 
• Rose Toile Stamp
• IOD Thin Mount 
• IOD Stone Gray Ink 
• IOD Ink Pad

• Thrifted Hat Box 
• Dixie Belle Dried Sage Paint 
• Clear Matte Lacquer 
• Terra Clay-Based Paint Moon Beam 
• Sand Paper 
• Old Wallpaper (for labels)
• Craft Glue Stick 
• Clear Wax 
• Dark Wax 
  

STEP ONE: CLEAN & PREP THE HAT BOX

Jonathon began by removing any rope handles and sticky price tags from the hat box. Then, he applied a base coat of a chalk-style paint in a soft linen shade. Once the paint dried, he used a top coat of clear matte lacquer to seal it, particularly around the edges. This step is crucial for preparing the surface for the lighter clay-based paint used to distress and reveal the darker shades underneath.

STEP TWO: PAINT THE HAT BOX 

For painting, Jonathon employed a method he likes to call the “any which way” technique, thinning out paint around the edges to facilitate distressing. Using a baby wipe, he gently distressed the edges to allow some of the darker paint to peek through, giving the box a beautiful patina. The final step was another coat of clear matte lacquer to protect the texture and prep it for the Lace Stamp.

STEP THREE: STAMP PREP AND CRISP IMPRESSIONS

Preparing the stamp is crucial for a crisp, clean impression. I used a soft sanding sponge to scuff the stamp’s surface lightly before loading it with ink, which improves ink adhesion.

For best results, I advise using a flat surface like a glass plate to avoid any unevenness. With the Lace Stamp prepared, practice on a sheet of paper before making your final impression on the hat box.

Jonathan uses the IOD Thin Mount and Stone Grey Decor Ink to stamp the Lace Stamp around his hat box. He adds a small piece of painter’s tape on the thin mount to mark where the stamp lands as he works his way around the box. It makes it much easier to keep your pattern consistent and cohesive.

STEP FOUR: PERSONALIZE YOUR HAT BOX

Jonathon created labels using the Insignia Stamp Set and the Apothecary Labels Stamp. He painted vintage wallpaper with clay-based paint and used the stamps to create a fictional brand, “Palmer and Fox.” For a finishing touch, he outlined the labels with a fine black pen and glued them to the hat boxes using a craft glue stick. 

STEP FIVE: ADDING DARK AND CLEAR WAX 

To bring everything together, he applied clear and dark wax over the boxes. This step not only seals the project but also adds a warm, vintage sophistication that ties together the box interior’s original design with the new exterior.

If you're just kicking off your creative journey, have no fear — our Product 101 pages are packed with straightforward techniques to set you up for success. We're thrilled to accompany you as you explore and create. For more how-tos and creative inspo, make sure to browse through the rest of our blog.

Once you've crafted your final piece, share it with our Facebook Creative Tribe! This community is not just a showcase but also a supportive hub for when you hit those creative roadblocks. And remember, your local stockist is always ready to assist with IOD supplies and expert advice. We're excited to see what you'll bring to life!