It started the way many great stories do.
With a phone call.

NASA called our customer service team with a simple question that carried extraordinary weight: Can you make a stamp for an upcoming mission?

Not just any stamp.
A truly custom one.

This stamp had to meet precise requirements. A specific weight. A detachable handle. A compact footprint. And it still had to deliver what Simply Stamps is known for every day: crisp impressions, dependable engraving, and consistency you can trust.

This stamp wasn’t going to an office, a classroom, or a warehouse.
It was going around the moon as part of the Artemis II mission.

And our answer was simple.

Yes.

When Custom Actually Means Custom

At Simply Stamps, custom is not a template. It is a responsibility.

NASA did not ask for a modified version of an existing stamp. They asked for a tool engineered to meet mission requirements where weight, balance, and reliability all mattered. The complete stamp assembly needed to come in under one ounce, while still producing the same clean impression our customers expect every day.

That requirement shaped every decision.

How the Stamp Was Engineered

• Target Weight: Under 1 ounce
• Body Material: Hard maple, selected for strength, stability, and predictable grain structure
• Handle Construction: Hollowed to remove unnecessary mass while preserving balance and structural integrity
• Laser Engraved: Laser depths set deeper than normal to remove mass while maintaining the perfect stamp impression.
• Assembly Design: Custom detachable handle system designed and test fitted for repeatable alignment
• Validation and Testing:
  • Multiple impression tests to confirm crisp, consistent results
  • Durability checks to ensure the structure held up under repeated use

This work was led by Frank Ferraro, whose hands on experience ensured the stamp met both mission specifications and our internal quality standards.

Why did this level of precision matter?

If you have ever repacked a suitcase at the airport to avoid an overweight bag fee, you already understand the concept.

In spaceflight, weight is never just a number. Estimates suggest that transporting even a single ounce of material to the Moon and returning it on a crewed mission can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Every ounce saved reduces cost, complexity, and risk.

Decades of Craft, Applied in a New Way

Founded in 1954, Simply Stamps has spent more than seven decades creating custom stamps for businesses, government agencies, educators, and professionals who rely on accuracy and consistency every day. Most of those stamps live on desks, in classrooms, and inside offices.

This one just happened to be built for space.

That did not change how we approached it. The stamp was held to the same standards we apply to every order. The same engraving precision. The same quality checks. The same expectation that when ink meets surface, the impression is clean, dependable, and repeatable.

Space missions leave no room for inconsistency. Every component, no matter how small, must perform exactly as expected. That mindset is familiar territory for us.

Whether a tool is used once or thousands of times, trust is earned the same way. By doing the job right every time.

For the Ones Who Look Up

For those who love space, the Artemis II mission represents more than a flight path. It’s a return. A continuation of human curiosity. A reminder that exploration is built on thousands of small, precise actions done right.

This stamp is one of those actions.

It won’t land on the moon. But it will travel its orbit. Quietly doing its job.Leaving its mark as part of a mission that will be remembered for decades.

A Local Team, Watching History

When the Artemis II launch lights up the sky, our Jacksonville based team will be watching — knowing something they engineered by hand is part of that moment.

Not many makers get to see their work leave Earth.

Our Story, Pressed Into Ink

Simply Stamps was built on the belief that small tools can do important things. Those details matter. That when something is made with care, it performs with confidence.

This project didn’t change who we are.
It reinforced it.

From everyday businesses to extraordinary missions, the goal is the same. Design with purpose. Build with precision. Deliver a custom stamp that works exactly as expected.

Because whether it’s a form, a document, or a moment in history…

Your mark matters.

Simply Stamps supplied this custom stamp directly to NASA for the Artemis II mission. This project does not imply NASA endorsement of Simply Stamps or our products.

How to Create Your Own Rubber Stamp in 3 Easy Steps!

Creating your own custom rubber stamp can be a fun and rewarding project, whether you're a small business owner, a crafter, or just someone who loves DIY projects. Learning how to make your own stamp allows you to add a personal touch to your work and make a lasting impression on whatever you're stamping, be it packaging, cards, or documents.

As someone who has spent years helping people create their own stamps for all sorts of purposes, I’m here to walk you through the process. Don’t worry—it’s much easier than you think! In just three simple steps, you’ll be ready to create your own stamp and start using it right away.

Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Choose Your Design

This is the most exciting part of the process—deciding what your stamp will look like! Your design is the foundation of your custom rubber stamp, so it’s important to take a little time to think about what you want your stamp to convey.

What Should You Stamp?

• For Business Owners: If you're running a business, consider using your logo to create your own logo stamp. This gives your brand a professional and cohesive look across everything from invoices to packaging. I’ve worked with several small business owners who use custom logo stamps to elevate their brand, and the results are always impressive.
• For Personal Projects: If you’re looking to make your own stamp for personal use, the possibilities are endless! You can stamp your name, a favorite phrase, or a custom illustration. Personally, I’ve designed stamps for everything from personalized gift tags to save the dates for my wedding!

Tips for a Great Design:

• Keep it Simple: Less is often more when it comes to stamps. Simple, bold designs typically translate better onto the rubber surface, especially if you’re working with a smaller stamp size.
• Think About Size: The size of your stamp will dictate how detailed your design can be. If you’re opting for a smaller stamp (let’s say 1” x 1”), stick to clean, minimal designs. For larger stamps, you can incorporate more detail without losing clarity.
• Text or No Text?: If you’re adding text, make sure to use a bold font that’s easy to read. Fine, delicate fonts can sometimes get lost when transferred to a stamp.

My Personal Experience:

I remember the first time I decided to create my own stamp—it was a simple monogram for a friend’s wedding invitations. The design was minimal, but the impact it had on their invites was huge! The bride and groom were thrilled, and they even used the stamp later on their thank-you cards.

Step 2: Pick the Right Stamp Type

Now that you have your design, it’s time to choose the type of stamp that will best suit your needs. Not all stamps are created equal, so it’s important to think about how you’ll be using yours when you make your own stamp.

Types of Custom Rubber Stamps:

Self-Inking Stamps

A custom self-inking stamp comes with a built-in ink pad that automatically re-inks the stamp after each use. These are great for business owners who need to stamp lots of documents quickly. They provide a consistent, clean impression every time and are ideal for high-volume use.

• Best For: Business use, repetitive tasks like stamping envelopes or invoices.
• Example: I helped a real estate office design a custom logo stamp with their address, and they used it to quickly mark envelopes and contracts. They saved so much time by using the self-inking stamp instead of manually writing their return address!

Traditional Rubber Stamps

The classic traditional rubber stamp requires a separate ink pad and gives you a bit more flexibility when it comes to ink color. These stamps are great for artsy, DIY projects or when you want to create a handcrafted feel. Plus, you can change ink colors whenever you like.

• Best For: Crafts, personal projects, and anyone who enjoys the tactile experience of stamping.
• Example: I’ve used traditional rubber stamps for everything from homemade greeting cards to customized gift wrap. There’s something nostalgic and satisfying about pressing the stamp into the ink pad and getting that perfect impression!

Pre-Inked Stamps

A pre-inked stamp is a bit like a self-inking stamp, but instead of using a separate ink pad, the ink is embedded directly into the stamp itself. This type of stamp produces the sharpest and cleanest impressions, making it ideal for intricate logos or detailed designs.

• Best For: Intricate designs, logos, or artwork that requires fine detail.
• Example: I once worked with an artist who wanted to stamp her signature logo on her prints. We used a pre-inked stamp, and the sharpness of the design was spot-on—no smudging or loss of detail, even with tiny lettering.

Step 3: Submit and Order Your Custom Rubber Stamp

You’ve got your design and chosen your stamp type—now it’s time to make it official! Submitting your design for production is the final step, and it’s crucial to get everything right before placing your order.

What to Check Before Submitting Your Order:

• Double-Check Your Design: Ensure that your logo, artwork, or text is clear and exactly as you want it to appear on the stamp. If you're using text, make sure everything is spelled correctly. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve caught last-minute spelling errors before submitting an order!
• Choose the Right Size: Remember to match the stamp size to its intended use. For example, if you’re using it on packaging, you might want a larger stamp to make your logo stand out.
• Select Your Ink Color: If you’re using a self-inking or pre-inked stamp, consider which ink color will complement your brand or project. Black is the most common, but vibrant colors like red or blue can also make your stamp pop.

Conclusion: Start Stamping with Your Custom Rubber Stamp!

Learning to make your own rubber stamp is a simple yet rewarding process that lets you add a personal or professional touch to almost anything. Whether you're using it to brand your business, add flair to your packaging, or bring a personal touch to gifts and projects, your custom stamp is a versatile tool that you’ll find yourself using again and again.

With these three easy steps—choosing your design, picking the right stamp type, and submitting your order—you’ll be well on your way to having a beautiful custom rubber stamp in your hands. The next time you’re looking to create your own stamp, you’ll know exactly what to do!

Ready to make your own stamp? Follow these steps, and you’ll be stamping in no time! Get started here.

Everything You Need to Know About Rubber Stamps: A Fun and Helpful Guide

Whether you're stamping business documents, jazzing up a craft project, or adding a personal touch to your correspondence, rubber stamps are a simple yet effective tool. I remember the first time I used a rubber stamp; it felt so satisfying to see my name and logo embossed onto paper in perfect ink. Since then, I've used them in countless ways, and it’s become a little obsession. But what exactly are rubber stamps, and how can they fit into your life? Let’s dive in!

What is a Rubber Stamp?

At its core, a rubber stamp is a simple device that uses raised rubber designs to transfer an inked image onto a surface like paper, fabric, or even metal. The raised rubber holds the ink and then creates the image or text when pressed onto the chosen surface. Most rubber stamps come mounted on a block, either wooden or acrylic, which provides a sturdy grip for a clean and consistent impression.

Different Types of Rubber Stamps

Rubber stamps come in various forms, so you can find one that suits your exact needs. Here are the three main types:

• Traditional Wood Handle Stamps: These require a separate ink pad. Think old-school, but highly versatile!
• Self-Inking Stamps: My personal favorite! These have a built-in ink pad that re-inks the stamp between each use. Talk about convenient!
• Pre-Inked Stamps: The ink is stored directly within the stamp material, so no external ink pad is needed.

I still remember when I got my first self-inking stamp for my business—it felt like such a game changer! No more fumbling with ink pads. I could just stamp, stamp, stamp away.

The Many Uses of Rubber Stamps

Now let’s talk about why you’d want to use a rubber stamp. Spoiler alert: they're incredibly useful and fun!

1. Business and Office Use

Rubber stamps are a must-have for many businesses. They’re used to authenticate documents, date incoming mail, or label paperwork with company information. If you’ve ever seen a document stamped with a company logo or address, that's a rubber stamp in action.

A friend of mine, who runs a small home-based business, told me how much faster her workflow became when she started using a custom rubber stamp for shipping labels. No more scribbling her return address by hand—she just stamps and ships!

2. Crafting and DIY Projects

Rubber stamps aren’t just for business; they’re also perfect for crafting. You can find stamps with fun designs, patterns, or quotes that you can use to personalize everything from cards to gift wrap. I once spent an entire weekend using rubber stamps to decorate handmade journals as gifts—it was such a creative and rewarding project!

3. Education

Teachers often use stamps to grade papers or offer encouraging feedback. Back in school, I used to love seeing a "Great Job!" stamp on my assignments. These days, you can get custom-made teacher stamps with smiley faces, stars, or motivational messages.

4. The Food Industry

Did you know rubber stamps are used in the food and drink industry too? With food-safe ink, businesses stamp their packaging to communicate important information, such as expiration dates or dietary details.

5. Animal Marking

This one surprised me the most. Some rubber stamps are used to mark animals, like pigeons, before races! It’s a small yet important way to keep track of them.

What Does "Rubber Stamp" Mean in Law?

You might have heard the term "rubber stamp" in a completely different context—law. In legal settings, a rubber stamp refers to the quick, routine approval of a document or decision without much scrutiny. It’s like when someone says, "Oh, they just rubber-stamped that decision." It means the approval happened automatically, with little or no thought.

It doesn’t have anything to do with the physical tool we’re discussing, but it’s a neat metaphor that captures the repetitive, quick nature of stamping documents.

The Difference Between a Rubber Stamp and a Normal Stamp

Now, you might be wondering, What’s the difference between a rubber stamp and a normal stamp? Aren’t they all the same?

Not quite! When people say "rubber stamp," they’re typically referring to any stamp made of rubber that transfers ink onto a surface. Normal stamps, on the other hand, can refer to things like postage stamps—the kind you stick on an envelope. Unlike postage stamps, which have adhesive backs, rubber stamps need to be pressed down with ink onto paper. Rubber stamps also come in more customizable types like self-inking or pre-inked stamps, giving you a ton of versatility in both business and personal projects.

A Brief History of Rubber Stamps

Rubber stamps didn’t just pop up overnight. Their history goes way back, evolving from older methods of marking documents and objects.

Wax Seals

Before rubber stamps, there were wax seals. These were used to seal letters and documents with a mark of authenticity. Think about those fancy envelopes you see in old movies, sealed with a blob of wax and a family crest pressed into it.

Woodblock Printing

Originating in Asia, woodblock printing was a method where designs were carved into wood, inked, and then pressed onto paper or fabric. This technique was used to create art and literature long before modern printing methods.

Metal Stamps

And let’s not forget metal stamps! These were the first tools used to make coins and emboss leather. The idea of creating a design and pressing it into another material is ancient, but it paved the way for today’s more flexible and durable rubber stamps.

Modern rubber stamps evolved from these historical methods, making them durable and easy to use in both professional and creative settings.

Why You Should Own a Rubber Stamp

Whether you’re running a small business, sending out holiday cards, or making personalized gifts, rubber stamps add that extra touch. I love how something so simple can elevate an ordinary piece of paper into something special. It’s quick, easy, and honestly a bit addictive—once you start stamping, it’s hard to stop!

If you’re considering a rubber stamp, think about what you’ll use it for and which type suits your needs. A self-inking stamp is great for frequent use, while a pre-inked stamp is perfect for clean, crisp impressions without needing an ink pad.

Conclusion

Rubber stamps are so much more than just tools for stamping papers. They offer versatility, creativity, and even a bit of history. Whether you're stamping documents at the office or adding flair to a craft project, rubber stamps make the task both easy and fun. Next time you see a stamped letter or a beautiful card, take a moment to appreciate the humble rubber stamp behind it!

Ready to get stamping? Whether for business or fun, you can’t go wrong with a custom rubber stamp.

Choosing Your Stamp

With Simply Stamps huge selection of stamps, we want to make sure you’re choosing the stamp that fits your needs. The majority of our custom stamps come in three different options: wood-handled, self-inking and pre-inked. Each has its advantages, depending on how you’d like to use your stamp.

Self-Inking Stamps

A self-inking stamp is a space saver, and there’s no need to buy an extra ink pad. The cartridge is included inside, and the stamper does all the inking work for you. All of our self-inking stamp cartridges are easily removable. Self-inking stamps are great for a lot of rapid stamping; they won’t fade after a lot of impressions, and you’ll get a crisp impression each time!

• Fast - Best for rapid and repeated impressions
• Top-selling option - Most affordable and convenient stamp type
• Easy to use - No extra pressure needed, just press down for a crisp impression
• Easy to travel with - Stamp includes a locking mechanism
• No mess - All the ink is within the stamp body
• Time saver - No need to re-ink your stamp

Pre-Inked Stamps

With pre-inked stamps, the difference is in the quality, number, and size of impressions the stamp provides. Pre-inked stamps use oil-based ink that permeates through the back of a specialized porous rubber. This process offers an excellent, crisp impression that captures very detailed text and artwork. Pre-inked stamps also offer a larger impression area than the largest self-inking stamp.

• Crisp Impressions - Highest quality stamp type
• Quiet operation - Best for professional and business needs
• No ink pad needed - Ink already installed within the stamp
• Long-lasting stamp - Able to hold more ink in the die
• Durable - The more robust build is harder to damage

Wood-Handled Stamps

Our wood-handle stamps are the least expensive, but you’ll need to buy an ink pad to go along with them. Ink the stamp up on the pad before you stamp. This gives you lots of options to switch ink colors back and forth! Because the stamp relies on your hand pressure, it is much more manual than the other two stamps, but many people like that old-school rubber stamp impression!

• Aesthetic appeal - Traditional and classic look
• Many ink option - Choose any ink pad color that you'll need
• Durable - Since there are no moving parts, these stamps are built to last
• Eco-friendly stamp - Not a fan of plastic stamps, then this is for you!
• Great for artistic use - These stamps are often used for crafting

There you have it – a simplified version of the differences in our stamps! Visit Simply Stamps for more information or check Simply Stamps University for more.

Whichever way we choose to use them, chances are they’ll be used a lot! So we thought we’d answer the question running through everyone’s mind: What’s the easiest and most efficient way to care for my rubber stamps? Can I clean a rubber stamp with dried ink on it? The answer is 'Yes'! We're here to show you the best way to clean your stamp.

Watch our short video or read the step-by-step instructions below, and soon you’ll be a stamp-cleaning pro!

5 Easy Steps to Cleaning a Rubber Stamp:

Step 1:

Gather your supplies! You’ll need a toothbrush, a dish soap and water mixture, and scotch tape.

Step 2:

Tear off a piece of scotch tape and stick it to your rubber stamp. Remove the tape, and you’ll see dust, dirt, etc. come off with it. Repeat this step a few times.

Step 3:

For a more intense cleaning, make multiple impressions to dry out the rubber. This will prepare the stamp for further cleaning. For self-inking stamps, remove the ink pad before this step.

Step 4:

Next, dip your toothbrush into the soapy water. Rub the bristles of the toothbrush across your stamp, cleaning every crease. Repeat this step until your stamp is clean, rewetting the toothbrush as necessary. Blot your stamp on dry paper to remove excess water.

Step 5:

Let your stamp dry completely before using ink again.

Simply Stamps partners with industry-leading brands like Trodat and Xstamper because we want your purchase to last. If you’re ever not satisfied with the impression your stamp is leaving, try giving it a nice, deep clean. When cleaned properly, your stamp will work as if it were new!

Note: Never emerge a wood handle stamp in the soapy water. This can damage the glue that holds your rubber stamp together. When cleaning a wood handle rubber stamp, be sure to take extra care to only clean the rubber stamp pad.

Basic Stamp Care

Besides just keeping your rubber stamp clean, it's also good to know the basics of making sure you care for your stamp properly!

Each type of stamp is a little different, but for the most part, there are some basic rules for making sure your stamp lasts as long as you need it.

Here are 5 tips we recommend for keeping your stamp functioning!

Tip 1:

Store your stamp properly. Keeping your stamp in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures will ensure that your rubber does not deteriorate over time.

Tip 2:

Protect the rubber. When your stamp is not in use, you should make sure to cover the rubber with a plastic or rubber cap.

Tip 3:

Avoid applying too much pressure. When using your rubber stamp, try not to use excessive pressure when making impressions. This can cause damage to the rubber and make your future impressions less clear.

Tip 4:

Clean the stamp mount. Occasionally, clean the stamp mount or handle to remove any ink residue. This will help maintain the overall cleanliness of the stamp.

Tip 5:

Check for damage. Regularly inspect your rubber stamp for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears in the rubber. Replace the stamp if it's damaged, as it can affect the quality of the impressions.

Overall, it's always a great idea to check in on your well-loved stamps and ensure that they will last you for years to come! With these steps, we are sure that your rubber stamp will serve you well.

Self-Inking Stamps vs Pre-Inked Stamps

There are a variety of styles of hand-held stamps available. These include Self-Inking Stamps, Pre-Inked Stamps, and Traditional Wood Handled Rubber Stamps that require a separate ink pad. Both pre-inked and self-inking are cleaner and make faster, more consistent impressions than traditional rubber stamps, which is why they have become the more popular modern choice when purchasing a custom stamp for addresses, signature stamps, and logo stamps while traditional stamps are still preferred for crafting and artistic use.

What Are the Differences Between Self-Inking & Pre-Inked Stamps?

A Custom Self-Inking Stamp typically has a rotating mechanism that presses the rubber stamp dye into a built-in water-based ink pad that re-inks the dye every time an impression is made. The rubber dye is stored in a retracted position in between impressions.

A Custom Pre-Inked Stamp is a type of stamp that has a reservoir of oil-based ink built directly into the rubber dye, which means that it does not require a separate ink pad like a self-inking stamp. This ink reservoir is filled with ink that is specially formulated to be absorbed by the rubber die to create crisp, clear impressions.

Everything from the way the stamp is made to the impression it leaves is truly unique. Let's take a look at what these stamps are and how they work.

What Is A Self-Inking Stamp?

A self-inking stamp makes the traditional rubber stamp automatic by using a tiny built-in ink pad to re-ink itself for each quality impression. Your personalized die is made with real rubber and mounted on the ink stamps of your choosing. When making an impression, your die will retract back and forth against the internal ink pad within the stamp.

Initial ink pad comes in the stamp, but you can purchase additional ink for instances where impressions are becoming worn or when you would like to change your ink color. Just be sure to look for ink that is compatible with self-inking mounts.

• A self-inking stamp is best for stamping repeatedly and quickly
• Works quickly with a simple press
• Can handle rough and heavy use
• Can use a variety of inks which is useful for periodic re-inking
• Self-inking stamps make about 10,000 impressions before needing ink
• Easy to re-fill ink on your own
• Affordable good quality impression

What Is a Pre-Inked Stamp

A pre-inked Stamp does not use a rubber die. These models flash your personalized information into an ink filled vessel within the stamp. This method allows for ink droplets to seep through the impression area only from the ink reservoir behind the stamp.

Pre-inked stamps must be re-inked with liquid oil-based ink only. They require the use of the same color as the initial ink stamps you've used. You must use ink specific to the manufacturer of the stamp mount that you've chosen.

• A pre-inked stamp creates sharp, crisp, top quality impressions
• Longest lasting ink stamps with up to 50,000 impressions
• Compact mounts that are clean and easy to work with
• Mounts have a bottom cover for storage
• Easy to re-fill with ink, but must always use the same type
• Recommended for stamps with logos

Is a Self-Inking or Pre-Inked Stamp Better?

Self-inking stamps are the most popular stamp type on the market and designed to make stamping easy, efficient, and affordable. Since there is no need to re-ink the stamp in between sessions, self-inking stamps can make thousands of impressions in a row, saving you time and money. They are a reliable choice for both professional and personal needs and we recommend them when speed is of the essence. Because self-inking stamps use water-based ink and may smudge on non-porous surfaces, they are not appropriate for shiny or glossy surfaces.

Pre-inked stamps provide the best quality impression and can achieve the highest level of detail. If you want an uncompromised impression and cost is no object, pre-inked stamps are the top-of-the-line stamp. It may even appear like the impressions are machine printed instead of stamped. When stamping on shiny or glossy surfaces we always recommend pre-inked stamps using oil-based ink. Pre-inked stamps are suggested for projects or any design that requires precision over speed.

Choosing Your Stamp

Before anything else, I've found it helpful to select the stamp you are looking to customize first. Self-inking, pre-inked, and wooden handle stamps are all available as fully custom stamps. Simply choose the stamp type and size you are looking for, then start customizing. Any time I'm struggling to decide which stamp is best for my needs, I've found this blog post on all the different stamp types to be helpful.

Designing Your Stamp

You have complete control over the customization of your custom rubber stamps. This could mean anything from custom text, images, artwork, and more. Once you select a stamp and add it to your cart, the design wizard will make the designing process smooth and simple. It gives the option to choose your own fonts and sizes for a truly unique stamp design.

Here are my personal tips to guide you through the design process:

1. Keep It Simple: From years of crafting and seeing countless designs come to life, I can't stress enough the importance of simplicity. A clean design with clear lines ensures your stamp is versatile and always leaves a crisp impression.

2. Bold Is Better: Opt for bold lines and high contrast in your design. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about functionality. Thicker lines and stark contrasts translate best to the medium of rubber stamps, ensuring your design is always legible, no matter the surface.

3. Step Away from Fine Details: I know how tempting it is to incorporate intricate details into your design. However, through trial and error, we've learned that rubber stamps work best with solid, clear shapes. Fine lines and gradients often get lost in translation. If finer details are critical to your design, consider choosing a Pre-Inked Stamp, with larger sizes being better.

4. Think About the End Use: Consider where you'll be using your stamp. Different surfaces might require different types of ink, and your design may need to be adapted accordingly. If you're unsure, we're here to help guide you to the best choices for your stamp's intended use.

5. Utilize Negative Space: Negative space isn't just empty space; it's a powerful design tool. It can help your main design elements pop and add an elegant simplicity to your stamp. When used cleverly, negative space can turn a good design into a great one.

6. Size and Aspect Ratio Are Key: The size of your stamp and the aspect ratio of your design play crucial roles in the final outcome. When considering the size, also think about the aspect ratio of your design. If your design is too wide without enough height (or vice versa), it might not stamp as clearly as you'd hope. Match the shape of your impression to the size and shape of your stamp. Aim for an aspect ratio that complements the content of your design, whether it's a logo, text, or a combination of both. Is your design especially wide or tall? Consider choosing a Wood Handle Stamp, which we can adjust to fit your design.

Transforming Your Design Into a Stamp

When it comes to creating your custom stamp, the Simply Stamps team uses two primary methods:

Laser Engraving

Laser engraving machines use high-powered laser beams to remove the rubber material selectively, following your design's outline. The lasers are controlled by our software, which ensures that they engrave exactly around your unique design. The laser beam vaporizes or melts away the rubber, creating the raised portions of your stamp. This method is used to make our custom self-inking and wood handle stamps.

Flash Machine

Flash machines work by flashing light through a vellum with the stamp image that is being produced. The light melts away the surface of the flash die plate and leaves the surface of the desired image porous in order to allow ink to flow through. This method is used to make our custom pre-inked stamps.

Ensuring Quality

Before we ship your new custom rubber stamp, our team double checks that your stamp produces clear and consistent impressions. Any adjustments needed to achieve the desired result are made at this stage, so you can enjoy a high-quality product!

Choose the Right Image Format

When uploading your artwork for a custom rubber stamp, the first step is selecting the right image format. Generally, vector graphics are preferred because they can be scaled without any loss of quality. The ideal file formats include:

• SVG: This XML-based format is perfect for logos, text, and intricate designs.
• PDF: PDFs can be suitable file format for custom rubber stamps, especially when they contain vector graphics.
• JPG/PNG: Because both of these files have a fixed resolution, please make sure the images are high resolution to maintain quality.

Keep It Simple

Simplicity is key when creating artwork for a custom rubber stamp. The finer the details, the more challenging it is to produce a clean impression. Here are some tips:

• Avoid intricate patterns: Fine lines and tiny details may not translate well onto the stamp. The stamps use liquid ink, and small details could easily smudge.
• Use bold, legible fonts: Choose clear and simple fonts for text elements to ensure readability. For best results, do not add text that is smaller than 8 point font.
• Minimize shading and gradient: Keep shading to a minimum, as these can be difficult to reproduce on a rubber stamp. All stamp designs are turned into monochrome and shadow boxes will blend into text. 3D designs will appear 2D once they are turned into a stamp.

Limit the Use of Too Many Colors

When selecting colors for your artwork, it's important to keep in mind that rubber stamps are single-color. To ensure your design works well with a single color, consider using high-contrast colors. Black on a white background works best to create a clear, easily recognizable stamp.

Light colors on a white background, on the other hand, will be difficult to turn into a stamp. For the highest-quality results, avoid using too many colors or watercolor designs.

Check the Sizes and Proportions

Before uploading your artwork, consider the size and proportions of your rubber stamp. Ensure that your image will fit within the dimensions of the stamp without being stretched or distorted. If you're unsure, contact our customer service team for guidance.

Image Resolution

Raster images should have a high resolution (300 dpi or more) to maintain quality when resized. If you're creating vector artwork, resolution is not a concern, as vectors are infinitely scalable without loss of quality.

Key Takeaways

Uploading the best artwork for a custom rubber stamp is essential to ensure that your stamped impressions are clear and visually appealing. By following these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared to create an eye-catching, functional rubber stamp that perfectly suits your needs. Remember, simplicity, high resolution, and careful consideration of color and design are the keys to success in the world of custom rubber stamps.

The Birth of Rubber Stamps

The story of rubber stamps begins with American chemist, Charles Goodyear, developing the first ever vulcanized rubber. According to connecticuthistory.org, Goodyear accidentally discovered this process in 1839 by combining rubber and sulfur upon a hot stove. This allowed rubber to be hardened and made durable, opening the door to various applications. However, it wasn’t until the latter half of the century that the rubber stamp made its debut.

Although the official inventor of rubber stamps is up for debate, officemuseum.com claims they were invented sometime between 1864-1866. The original rubber stamp model was a hand stamp made by attaching the rubber to wood. Today we can clearly see the resemblance in our traditional wooden hand stamp bodies.

In 1866, a salesman named J.F.W. Dorman was introduced to the rubber stamp and was the first to successfully commercialize the product. Briarpress.org states that Dorman learned the technique of manufacturing rubber stamps and eventually became a supplier of rubber stamps. Other manufacturers started to copy his ideas and new rubber stamp companies began to form, making them increasingly more popular.

The Rubber Stamp Evolution

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the rubber stamp’s transition from factories to offices. Companies started using rubber stamps for various tasks, including marking invoices, addressing envelopes, and endorsing checks. Customization became increasingly important, allowing businesses to include their names, addresses, and other specific information on stamps.

Rubber stamps became an important tool in schools and classrooms as well. Lynchburgmuseum.org displays several rubber stamp sets that were used in the late 1800s and early 1900s. These designs included letters, words, animals, buildings, and more.

As technology evolved, so did rubber stamp production methods. In the 20th century, photomechanical processes allowed for greater precision in stamp design. This paved the way for more intricate and personalized custom rubber stamps. Additionally, innovations like self-inking stamps reduced the mess associated with traditional ink pads.

Custom rubber stamps also found a place in the world of arts and crafts. From scrapbooking to handmade greeting cards, rubber stamps became an indispensable tool for adding unique and artistic touches to projects.

The Digital Age & Beyond

In a world where everything is increasingly digital, custom rubber stamps serve as a tangible link to the past, a reminder of simpler times when a simple press of ink on paper carried a powerful message. Their continued popularity is a testament to their versatility and enduring charm.

Whether it’s for marking important documents or adding a personal touch to handmade creations, custom rubber stamps continue to make their mark on history, leaving a lasting impression on the pages of time. It’s our privilege to continue the legacy of custom rubber stamps, offering our customers the means to leave their own unique mark on the world.

Our collection of clothing stamps are perfect for organization, labeling and keeping track of every item in your closet.

This Bold Clothing Stamp:

• Is a self-inking stamp model, specifically designed to create easy-to-read impressions on clothing and textiles
• Includes a special black fabric ink for long-lasting name impressions
• Creates .56” x 1.5” impressions
• Is customizable with your name or personalized text

Ready to start stamping? Here’s our complete how-to guide on all things clothing stamps with tips and ideas to help you get started:

About Custom Clothing Stamps

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers to help you prep and plan before you start stamping your clothes:

• Is clothing stamp ink permanent? Clothing stamps create long-lasting impressions that are not permanent. Our clothing stamps feature a special textile ink that will last for up to 40 washes!
• Is clothing stamp ink safe for skin contact? Yes. Our specially formatted textile and fabric ink is non-toxic and safe for children’s clothing.
• How do I wash stamped clothing? Stamped clothes are machine-washable in water up to 90 degrees Celsius.
• How do I make my clothing stamp impression last longer? For longer-lasting results, wait to wash your clothing for at least 24 hours after stamping!
• Can I add my phone number to my clothing stamp? Simply Stamps has a large collection of clothing stamp designs, including options with multiple lines to include your phone number and contact information! Click here to view all of our clothing stamp styles and designs.

For more details and FAQs about custom clothing stamps, check out our informational guide here!

How to Stamp Clothing & Fabrics

Here’s our step-by-step guide on how to use your new clothing stamp:

1. Make sure that the clothing you want to stamp is washed and completely dry.
2. Place your clothing on a flat, smooth surface and ensure there are no wrinkles or folds where you will be stamping.
3. Place your stamp on your clothing and firmly press down on the top of your self-inking stamp body to create an impression.
4. Allow your stamp impression ample time to dry before washing or folding your clothes.

Clothing Stamp Uses

Clothing stamps are a popular, easy-to-use alternative to writing or sewing your name and information into fabric! Here are just some of the ways that clothing stamps can help you make your mark:

• Keeping track of children’s clothes: Stamp your child’s clothes to prevent lost and misplaced items.
• Simplified laundry sorting: Customize every family member’s clothing with a stamp for easy sorting, and easy identification at laundromats.
• Labeled clothing for travel: Keep track of every item of clothing when you or your kids are away from home traveling, at sleepovers or at camp!
• Personalized school & work uniforms: Add a clothing name stamp to every uniform for school, gym and work!

Similar Stamps:

Check out some of our similar clothing stamps to find one that matches your style:

Fun Script Clothing Stamp

Cute Handwritten Clothing Stamp

Curly Font Clothing Stamp

Stamps on Social:

Looking for some DIY stamping inspo? Check out how some of our customers are using rubber stamps to make their mark:

DIY possibilities are endless with rubber stamps! From stamping snail mail to labeling your clothes, our custom rubber stamps are the perfect all-in-one tool for all of your personalized projects.

Check out our complete clothing stamp collection for more custom fabric stamp designs and options:

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