Vietnam : Carving Your Own Wooden Stamp in Hanoi

Open Time : 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry : Paid

Address : Hanoi, Vietnam

Why to visit Carving Your Own Wooden Stamp in Hanoi

Hanoi is famous for its deep artistic heritage and is one of the great places to explore traditional woodblock carving. Vietnamese wooden stamps, widely used in calligraphy and printing, are a centuries-long part of the country's artistic identity.

In a workshop for carving wooden stamps, visitors learn complex techniques of hand-carving their own personalized stamp, which combines cultural heritage with hands-on creativity.

What to Expect in a Wooden Stamp Carving Workshop

  • Introduction to Traditional Vietnamese Woodblock Art: Learn about the history of woodblock printing and its cultural significance.
  • Designing Your Stamp: Sketch a pattern, name, or meaningful symbol.
  • Carving Techniques: Using chisels and fine tools, etch your design into the wood.
  • Inking & Printing: Test your stamp by applying traditional ink and pressing it onto paper.

Other Things to Do in Hanoi

  • Visit the Temple of Literature: Explore Vietnam’s first university, a historic site filled with calligraphy and traditional architecture.
  • Stroll Around Hoan Kiem Lake: A peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
  • Explore Dong Xuan Market: Shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.

Places Nearby

  • Temple of Literature: 2 km
  • Hoan Kiem Lake: 1 km
  • Dong Xuan Market: 3 km.

Visitor Workshop Information

  • Price: 400,000 - 1,200,000 VND (~ $16-$50 USD) per person, depending on size and stamp detail.
  • Average Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Distance

From Noi Bai International Airport: 25 km (~45-minute drive).

FAQ on Carving Your Own Wooden Stamp in Hanoi

How do you use wood stamps?

Wood stamps are traditionally used for block printing on fabric, paper, and pottery. To use them, dip the stamp into fabric or acrylic paint, remove excess ink, and firmly press it onto the surface. For textile printing, natural dyes are often used, and the process is repeated to create intricate patterns.

When were wooden stamps invented?

Wooden stamps have been used for centuries, with origins tracing back to ancient Mesopotamia and China, where they were used for printing on clay and textiles. In India, woodblock printing has been practiced since at least the 12th century, especially in regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat.

How are wooden stamps made?

Wooden stamps are handcrafted by skilled artisans who carve intricate designs onto hardwood blocks, typically made of teak or sheesham wood. The process involves sketching the design, carving the outline, engraving the details, and smoothing the surface. The stamp is then treated with oil to enhance durability.

How do you stamp wood?

To stamp on wood, use a permanent ink pad or acrylic paint. Lightly press the stamp into the ink, then firmly press it onto the wood surface. For better results, apply even pressure and let the ink dry completely. If stamping on untreated wood, sanding the surface first ensures a cleaner print.

Special Tip

Visit year-round, but mornings provide better lighting and a quieter atmosphere for detailed carving.

By LAIBA ARIF

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