A Lasting Impression: Of the Heart Rubber Stamps

Back in the early 1990s, longtime Lemon Grove residents Beverly Fuget and Gretchen Scott decided to create a business. The focus of their store at first was educational, creative crafts for children. Then they noticed that everyone was really enjoying the rubber stamping—and not just the kids. Soon it was the bulk of their business.

After a customer said, “Why don’t you just have a rubber stamp store?” that's just what they did. In 1995, Fuget and Scott changed the name of their store to Of The Heart Rubber Stamps, and the business took off.

I have to admit to not having a strong background in the art of rubber stamping. This is not a particularly male-dominated hobby. It is a highly creative process that involves using individual handmade rubber art stamps to decorate greeting cards and make other artistic projects.

It turns out creating your own beautiful cards is both simple and fun. You choose your favorite color inks, pick out some nice quality card stock, combine them with the stamps of your choice, add a seasonal theme, and—voila!—your card is complete.

Of The Heart has all the supplies you need, and offers several classes each week to learn the craft. Scott told me the first class is free.

“We want people to try stamping before spending any money,” she said. This policy comes from a business that lives up to its motto: “Because Nice Matters.” Most classes are only $15 each, and if you sign up for four, it’s a bargain rate of $40.

In addition to the classes, the store has a popular happy hour each Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. Everyone works on the same project while enjoying good conversation, snacks, and wine or the libation of your choice. Fun, food, and drinking, and you go home with your cleverly created card—all for only $5.

The business has a Stamp-A-Month Club, where you receive a complete do-it-yourself card project each month for a small fee. There are four themed choices every month. You can have the package mailed to your home, or pick it up at the store.

is located at 3358 Main St., between Broadway and Pacific Avenue. Check out their extensive website, where you can order online, join the Stamp-A-Month Club, and check for special offers. They can also be reached at 619-466-4117. The store hours are Monday through Wednesday, noon–7:00 p.m.; Thursday, noon–9:00 p.m.; Friday noon—6:00 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; closed on Sunday.