Carved Chinese chops bear unique symbols associated with the owner, similar to an official signature. These seals, in combination with the person's signature, designate an official mark of approval and authenticate documents and artwork. Artisans carve chops from stone and minerals or wood. Traditionalists use semisolid Chinese red ink or paste, made from plant fibers or containing silk threads, to apply seals from their chops to paper surfaces. You can purchase premixed Chinese red ink in porcelain containers or small, plastic tubs to use with your chop.
Sign your name on the document or artwork, if desired.
Press the end of the chop containing the impression into the pot of Chinese red ink.
Orient the chop so that the top of the stamp design faces the top of the page and carefully place the stamp on the paper, next to your signature.
Press down on the chop gently to leave an even impression, if the red ink is made exclusively of plant material (usually pulverized plant base). If using traditional silk-based ink paste, gently press the chop down on the paper surface and rock the chop side to side to leave an even impression.
Carefully remove the chop from the paper by drawing it down and angling it away from the paper (if using plant-based ink) or lifting it vertically off the page (if using traditional ink containing silk and cinnabar).
Set the paper aside and allow the ink to dry thoroughly, usually 10 to 15 minutes.
