Nail Stamping – Clear vs solid nail stamper

So after a while of using both a clear and solid stamper, I thought I’d share my experiences for each. These are just my thoughts and everyone has different preferences. There are so many brands and varying qualities. I know that I have only tried a tiny number of what available but I feel that I have exactly what is needed to create my nail stamping designs.

Solid Stamper

Given that the solid stamper was the first one that I ever used I thought I should talk about it first. I use the Konad double ended stamper. The large end easily covers my larger thumbnail and the small side is great for picking up smaller patterns.

I find the stamper easy to use with no preparation required. I feel that this is the best stamper for a beginner to use and I still regularly use it despite having a number of clear stampers.

However, there is one major downside that is it isn’t transparent. This can make placement of the design more difficult and has resulted in a few images being stamped on an odd angle. The stamper is also difficult for reverse stamping as its harder to see where you have painted. However, I will use the solid stamper for reverse stamping if I’m also using my stamping map.

I created the background of the above nails using a solid stamper.

Clear Stampers

Clear stampers are far more flexible and are fantastic for placing the image accurately on the nail. This flexibility feels odd and has taken a bit of getting used to after using the solid stamper. However, after a few attempts, I quickly adjusted. One key thing to be aware off is that generally clear stampers require a bit of prep work in order for them to be usable (I’ll post a link to my YouTube vid showing how to prep your stamper when the video is up). Because of the prep require it took me a bit longer to be able to use the stamper. I love using it for reverse stamping or designs where it needs to perfectly line up.

Another key thing to be aware of is that you must not use nail polish remover on clear stampers as it will quickly destroy the stamper. To clean your stamper use a paper lint roller. I know it sounds odd but it works well and won’t destroy the stamper.

T

So…Which one is best?

Honestly, I don’t have an answer to this question. It really depends on the situation and what nail stamping design you are trying to achieve. If you are doing anything that requires accuracy or revere stamping without a mat then I would use a basic stamper. However, if you are just learning to stamp or doing some basic designs I would use the solid stamper.

I quite like the Konad stampers for the solid type. However, this is the only brand that I have used. If you have any other brands comment below and let me know what they are.

Also if you have any prefered stamping polishes let me know what they are in the comments below!