Stamping in paper crafts has exploded in popularity in recent years, and there are now more supplies than ever to keep stampers occupied. Ink is one of the most important supplies required by every stamper, and not only is it available in every colour imaginable, but there are also numerous types of stamping inks available as listed below.

What Is Ink Stamping?

The procedure of stamping is the imprinting of a design from a design surface onto fabric. You can create your own stamp out of almost anything, or you can purchase one commercially. Ink or paint is applied to the stamp, which is then pressed onto the fabric.

What Are Craft Ink Pads?

In addition to finding your perfect ink of choice, the proper craft ink pad should help you maximise your craft, card, and DIY projects. Today you can find an extensive selection of craft ink pads to help you express your creativity and leave a colourful mark on your crafty projects or use it for your business/marketing needs.

What Are the Different Types of Ink?

Dye Ink

Dye ink is a quick-drying pigment with a consistency similar to water. This ink is perfect for imprinting on standard paper surfaces. It is also utilised in the majority of self-inking stamp sheets. Dye ink will penetrate into paper, causing minimal leakage. This water-based ink typically comes on a felt pad and is compatible with colouring mediums containing alcohol.

Pigment Ink

Pigment ink is a sticky, water-based ink that usually comes on a foam pad, produces vibrant colours, and is resistant to fading. It is excellent for embossing due to its denser, slower-drying nature, and it can be heat-set for fabrics, wood, clay, and more. Pigment ink can be used with colouring mediums containing alcohol.

Watermark Ink

Embossing ink, also known as watermark ink, is a thick, transparent ink that dries slowly and is typically used for thermal embossing. Before applying heat, embossing ink functions as glue for rubber stamps, allowing coloured embossing powder to adhere to the imprinted impression. The imprint of the stamp will be the colour of the embossing powder. Learn more about thermal embossing here.

Solvent Ink

Solvent ink is a quick-drying, permanent ink designed for semi-porous to nonporous surfaces, such as plastic, metal, glass, ceramic, laminated paper, coated paper, and leather (but not fabric). You cannot remove solvent ink with detergent and water, so you will need a solvent-based cleanser. This ink dissipates rapidly, so most pads require a re-inker or come with one. You can use solvent ink with any water-based colouring medium.

Chalk Ink

Chalk inks resemble pigment inks but have a more “chalky” appearance. They were once immensely popular in the stamping market, but in recent years they have become increasingly difficult to locate. They typically dry more quickly than pigment inks and are free of acids and archival, making them ideal for scrapbooking. In addition to being permanent when heat-set, they are excellent for colouring and water colouring. Even without a heat setting, they are typically resistant to smudging and discolouration. They look fantastic on darker card stock due to their matte chalky texture.

Skin-Safe Ink

Before applying ink to the epidermis, it is always essential to ensure that it is non-toxic. Especially when using ink with or on children, seek the phrases “child-safe” or “kid-safe” for added assurance. Always use a skin-safe ink, whether you’re using it for entry into bars or other special events, as a reminder to cleanse your hands, or with children.

What Is the Best Stamping Technique?

As with any of the many methods, techniques and different art supplies for beginners , it depends on what you want to make. Some people like to use stamping blocks, while others like to use stamping tools or wooden stamps. How you do something depends on the things you use. The general rule for stamping is that you should put ink on your stamp evenly and not put your stamp in the ink.

The ink should be spread out evenly. It shouldn’t be too thin or too thick, because that could cause bleeding or smearing. After putting ink on the stamp, or “inking,” it, press it down hard on the paper in the spot you want, without moving the stamp back and forth. Rocking the stamp, which can cause smudges and uneven writing, is generally a bad idea. Instead, use firm, even pressure.