The first thing I did was watch a few videos to get familiar with it. I found this video/demo particularly helpful but there are many more:
https://youtu.be/sYmpQCuGFXo
What I like about it:
1. The press comes completely off which allows the use of any type of cling stamp to be used regardless of thickness.
2. It is open on two sides which easily allows a 12 X 12 to be stamped on...as do my other ones.
3. For wreath building (this is my favorite reason) you don’t have to move the paper 8 times around like you do if you’re using a wreath builder stencil. You can just lift the press and turn it to the next position. Also, unlike when using the stencil as I have unhappily found, if you are still on the same stamp you can go back and restamp an image even after you have moved around the wreath.
4. You can have multiple presses (the lid) which is ideal for multi-layered stamps. I intend to get at least a second one.
5. It has a gridded, removable foam matte which helps the lining up of paper or stamps. The base is also gridded.
6. Extra tools...there is a specialized press that aids in boarder stamps.
7. Inking up the stamp is better since the lid is free to be perfectly flat on a surface. I find that I have to place a thin note pad under the lids to ink up the stamp evenly.
8. Yes, I am a tool geek and plan on adding this to my stamp platform collection.
