Introduction: Almost Free Clear Blocks for Unmounted Stamps

Acrylic or Polymer unmounted stamps are cheaper than traditional wood-mounted rubber stamps and take up less storage space. But stampers need an assortment of different sized transparent acrylic blocks for mounting them on, an added expense. I have made my own successfully and for free, using clear Lexan from my local glass shop.

Step 1: Supplies

You need:
permanent marker
cutting tool (I have used a scroll saw and a mitre saw and found the mitre saw better for making straight cuts of small material)
sandpaper
straightedge
piece of clear Lexan, about 1/2" thick or thicker

Clear Lexan: I got mine at my local autoglass shop. I just asked for a scrap of the thickest clear Lexan they had in stock. They haven't ever charged me for it - but I would expect it to be just a few dollars if they did bill me. And I get 6 or more blocks from one scrap, depending on the sizes I want.

Step 2: Setting Up to Cut

I use my existing acrylic stamps to decide what sizes of blocks I need to make. Peel the backing off the Lexan, if there is any. Using a ruler and permanent marker, draw on the Lexan the lines marking out what size blocks you want.

Size suggestions:
3" x 3"
1" x 4"
2" x 3"
3" x 4"

Step 3: Block Creation & Finishing

Please use power tools safely! Wear protective glasses and clothing.

Using your cutting tool (I used a mitre saw), cut along the marked lines to make your Lexan blocks.

Sand the edges (a palm sander is quick and efficient).

Clean the blocks in warm soapy water to remove dust and residue.

Your blocks are ready to use. Enjoy!