Refilling a stamp with ink is a great way to make sure that your stamp is working efficiently. Whether you are adding a business seal to a contract, or you are counting invoices, a good stamp can help you get the job done fast and accurately. However, there are a few things that you will need to know before refilling your stamp.
First, you will need to find the right ink for your stamp. Some pre-inked stamps are designed to be re-inked, but if you have one that is not, you will need to add the ink yourself. It is best to buy a refill ink cartridge, because these are designed to provide clean, uniform impressions in the harshest of conditions.
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Self-inking stamps are easy to re-ink, but you do have to be careful. Make sure you choose the correct color ink for your stamp. If you try to mix colors, you may end up with a muddied result. Instead, start with a few drops of ink and work your way up. The ink should sit in the ink well for several hours to absorb into the foam before using your stamp.
There are two types of self-inking stamps available on the market. One type features a re-inking pipe that automatically refills the rubber stamp in between uses. This allows you to simply re-ink the rubber stamp without having to worry about taking it apart. Another type requires you to spread ink on the pad’s surface before inserting it into the stamp.
You will also need to ensure that the ink you are using matches the manufacturer’s specifications. Many of these inks are made of a non-toxic pigment polymer resin that is environment-friendly, and they are odorless. Once you have found the appropriate ink for your stamp, you can begin filling it.
Using the right ink will help your stamp to last much longer. You should re-ink your stamp at least once a month, or whenever the ink starts to run out. For small stamps, you should use only a few drops of ink. Larger stamps can use six to eight drops. Depending on the size of the stamp, you should let the ink soak in for several hours.
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You should always follow the instructions on the box when re-inking your stamp. Some of the more complex models require that you remove the cover, or ink bottle, from the stamp. In some cases, you can also replace the ink pad, which is usually included with the stamp. Just be sure that you do not overfill the pad, as you may risk blotting out the ink.
Lastly, you will need to make sure that the ink you are using is the right sized drop for your stamp. If you are re-inking a smaller, self-inking stamp, you should only use a few drops. Those with larger stamps, or those that have larger ink wells, will need more ink.
Keeping a few important tips in mind while refilling your stamp is the key to having a crisp, clean, and uniform impression every time.