How do you know which stamp pad is right for your project? Here is a quick reference guide to help you choose the right type of stamp pad for your next project. This is a general Basic Quick Reference Guide. For specific manufacturer's formulas, please check with your seller.

Stamp Ink Pads Formula Guide

• Dye Pads ~ These pads are generally a quick drying ink that is used for general stamping purposes. The ink dries quickly and is deep in color. But this ink is NOT waterproof, so coloring of dye based stamp images should be done with colored pencils, crayons, dry watercolor pencils, etc. Use on papers, cardstock, porous surfaces,(fabrics, wood, unglazed ceramics,etc.)
• Pigment Pads ~ These pads are a slower drying ink. They are ideal for using with embossing powders. Use on paper, cardstock, porous and some non-porous surfaces if heat set.
• Solvent / Permanent Pads ~ These inks pads are quick drying permanent waterproof inks. These are ideally used when an image is stamped and colored with markers, watercolors, and/or paints. These are non-smearing when dry and are perfect for use on non-porous surfaces like plastics, glossy papers and vellums. Can be used on glass, ceramics, clays, etc.
• Chalk Ink Pads ~ These pads can be either dye or pigment based. You will want to check the packaging to see the compatability, as some companies make the dye based chalk pads waterproof, so check the label, or ask the seller. These ink pads offer a muted soft pastel chalk effect when stamped. They create great effects on dark papers/cardstocks. Use on many surfaces, just check the package to make sure what the specific manufacturer states.
• Metallic Pads ~ These pads are all typically pigment based and are slow drying. Most are permanent but require heat setting. Since most manufacture these with pigment inks, these can be used with embossing powders.
• Fabric Ink Pads ~ These ink pads are specifically formulated for use on fabrics. These usually require heat setting, but once they have been heat set, they are permanent and washable. These ink pads can be used on other surfaces not just fabrics. These can be used on papers/cardstocks and generally other porous surfaces.

These references are representative of the most polular basic choices out there and are meant solely for general guideline purposes. With all the manufacturers and formulas out there, there may be differences than what is stated above. (For example some dye based pads (that generally are not waterproof,) may be formulated to be waterproof, like Memories Dye Pads.) So for specific manufacturers usage suggestions, please check with your sellers. 

I hope this information has been useful. Feel free to contact me with any further questions.

On a more personal note, I have used a wide erray of stamp pads in various formulas. We do carry some stamp pads in our store and have first hand knowledge on those. But since we have tried more than what we have listed, my personal supply being larger than my store inventory, (although we are adding more items all the time), we will be more than happy to assist you with any questions you may have about any brands on the market. We may not sell it, but thats the great thing about ebay...they have everything...so we will try to help as best as we can.

Here is a link to our store. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us there.

This That and So Much More ~ Stamp Pads

Above information is the sole property of This That and So Much More. Do not copy, post, or distribute without permission. Thank you.