I just got my stamp yesterday. At first it was a bit difficult keeping things straight. Then I studied the imprint closely. If you look closely at the corners of the imprint you will see a tiny dimple at each corner. Use that dimple at each corner to locate the next stamp strike. It works best for me if I work from the BOTTOM up. That way you have a clear view of what you are doing. You can "feel the stamp when it is in place with the dimples overlapping each other & lined up for the next strike. This my new favorite pattern!