What is the difference between Regular Rubber Stamps, Self-Inking, and Pre-Inked stamps?
Sunday, March 30th, 2008Regular Rubber Stamps
Regular rubber stamps, are inexpensive to purchase. They require a stamp ink pad. The advantage of this kind of stamp is that it is very inexpensive. Also, since it requires a seperate stamp pad, you can use different colored ink pads with the same stamp. The main drawback is that it requires cleaning after each use.
Self Inking Stamps
Self-Inking Stamps have and internal stamp pad inside the stamp housing. The stamp rests agains the stamp pad. When you press down to stamp, a mechanical mechanism flips the rubber stamp down toward the paper where it makes contact and transfers the stamped image to the paper. When the stamp is released, the stamp flips back up into the housing and againt the ink pad until you stamp the next item. Self Inking Stamps are much more convenient than Regular Rubber Stamps and last for thousands of impressions before needing to be re-inked.
Pre Inked Stamps
A Pre-Inked Stamp, does not use an internal or external stamp pad. The stamp die is impregnated with ink. These are equially convenient as a self-inking stamp. One note of caution, the stamp usually has a cover. Make sure to replace the cover, so the stamp does not dry out.