In this tutorial, we will show you how to refill pre-inked stamps of various styles. Before you begin, make sure that you have flash or ink meant for pre-inked stamps. In addition, only refill your stamp with the same ink color that was previously used as the stamp will still contain some of the original ink.
Step 1: Determining Your Pre-Inked Stamp Ink Cartridge
Style 1: The Sliding Ink Cartridge
Check to see if your pre-inked stamp has a sliding ink cartridge. To this, simply take off the bottom cap. If the ink pad and cartridge is able to slide out from either end, then add 3-6 drops of ink and slide the cartridge back into the stamp.
If your pre-inked stamp does not have a sliding cartridge, then you will be able to remove the handle of the stamp. Once the top of the stamp is removed, you can place 1-2 drops of ink into the ink wells. Then replace the stamp handle.
TIP: Allow the ink to sit for several hours before using it to ensure full absorption of the ink into the ink pad.
Step 2: Test The Impression
Once the ink has had time to absorb, test the stamp impression on scrap paper to determine if more ink needs to be added.
TIP: Remember that you can always add more ink, but cannot remove ink once it is added. It is best to add only 1-2 drops at a time as not to over-saturate your ink pad which will cause ink blotting. Because pre-inked stamps last for thousands of impressions, only a small amount of ink is needed to refresh a crisp stamp impression.
