Here is a great tutorial:
Tutorials at Splitcoaststampers
To seal the mine I sometimes heat set the stazon or other ink and then using the vermark ink cover the top and emboss with clear embossing powder.
I also have used the mono aqua to cover the top, give the same effect...I actually like this better as I never have the patience to let me ink dry and my versamark pads are totally ink covered.