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.

Step #1:

The first step when ordering your signature stamp is to sign a blank sheet of paper three times. Be sure you're signing your signature onto a piece of paper with no lines, and avoid using a wide-tipped writing utensil like a sharpie, and instead use a fine-tipped pen.

Step #2:

Once you've signed the paper three times, you'll need to take a picture of the signature with your phone and save the image on your phone or desktop -- wherever you're ordering your new signature stamp.

Step #3:

Finally, you'll upload your art on the signature stamp product page on Simply Stamps. When choosing the size of your stamp, be sure to take into consideration the size of signature you'll need. We can fit your signature onto any sized stamp, but different sizes work better for different tasks. Please check the dimensions of each stamp before ordering to ensure you'll get the size of stamp you want.

There are also a number of different creative ways you can use your signature stamp. Whether you own a small business or a large corporation, you can equip your team members with signature stamps for thank you cards. Sending a thank you card to your customers can have a big impact because it adds a personal touch. When establishing relationships with your customers, never under estimate the power of a handwritten note!

Signature stamps can also be used on your children's artwork or school papers. Sometimes it feels like watching your children grow happens in the blink of an eye, so be sure to hold onto those cherished memories by keeping the things they created as a child. Having a signature stamp made with their signature is a fun way to have them easily sign every painting, drawing, or short story they create. It will help them mark their work as their own and will instill in them a sense of pride.

We hope we've made it clear to see just how easy it is to order your custom signature stamp! By following these simple steps, you're sure to receive the best signature stamp possible whenever you're ordering from Simply Stamps.

Ready to place your order for your signature stamp? Shop our selection of essential business stamps on Simply Stamps!

When choosing your stamp, you need to consider the type of surface you will be working with. Regular stamp ink won't be nearly as effective or simply won't work at all on glass or glossy surfaces, and higher quality, quick drying inks are overkill if used on standard paper or stationery. Most surfaces can be divided into two categories; porous or non-porous. Knowing the differences between these types of surfaces helps in making an informed decision when it comes to choosing the right stamp and ink.

Signature stamps are a handy tool for any office space, but are they legal? There is some confusion as to whether signature stamps are considered a legal form of authorization. Unfortunately, the answer still remains ambiguous and needs to be addressed in steps.

Let's first start with defining what a signature is. Because, there's more to it than you think.

Definition of Signature

Since many official documents require authorization in some form, understanding the legal definition of "signature" is an important first step to unpacking the legality of signature stamps. According to The Free Dictionary, "signature" is defined as:

A mark or sign made by an individual on an instrument or document to signify knowledge, approval, acceptance, or obligation.¹

While this is the most upfront and obvious definition, there is an additional layer when considering what constitutes a legal signature.

Legally, in addition to the act of signing, an individual's intent is taken into consideration when addressing the validity of a signature.² This is why a signature is not always a specific or unique way of writing your name, and in fact, can be considered a signature by mark.³ A valid signature could include a drawn image, official seal, or a simple alphabetic character so long as the signee understands and intends for their mark to serve as their signature.

With this in mind, the next question is; are signature stamps covered under this definition?

What are Signature Stamps?

In the simplest of terms; a signature stamp is an implement personalized with an individual's name for quick and easy authorization of documents. These stamps can come customized with just a signature or can include both a signature and printed name. Signature stamps can come in a variety of styles including self-inking, pre-inked, or wood handle, and while each stamp format serves the same basic function, they each appeal to different aesthetics.

Self-inking stamps tend to be the most popular as they are more affordable than pre-inked and have a stamp ink pad built into the stamp body itself.

You can read more about the differences between these stamp types here.

With the outbreak of COVID-19, keeping a personal signature stamp on your person is a good way to maintain professionalism even while social distancing. It's also better to use your own tools to reduce the spread of germs.

While signature stamps are useful tools for any professional, there is some concern as to whether they are considered a legal method for authorization or not.

Are Signature Stamps Legal?

The short answer is; yes, you can generally use signature stamps as a legal authorizing mark. So long as your stamp is intentionally used and validated by you or an authorized representative you appoint, a signature stamp can serve as a legal form of signing.

Now, this is generally speaking.

There are circumstances where specific protocols or regulations must be followed for signature stamps to be legally used.

Some states require special documentation or witnesses to be present for signature stamps to be used on forms and documents requiring notarization.

For example, North and South Carolina require "Mark affixed by [name] in presence of undersigned notary" next to their impression. And, states like Arizona, Arkansas, and California, among others, limit the use of signatures by mark to individuals who are unable to physically signing their name.³

In 2018, one notary had to defend herself against a million-dollar suit as she allowed a signature stamp to be used without following her state's specified protocols.⁴ Be sure you are familiar with your state's notary public laws and how they apply to signature stamps.

It's important to note: Simply Stamps is not a law firm. As such, please speak with a lawyer if you need official legal consulting concerning your signature stamp.

With these special considerations, you may need to weigh the benefits and drawbacks to using or keeping a signature stamp readily available.

Pros & Cons of Signature Stamps

Knowing now that a signature stamp is generally accepted as an official and legal mark of authorization, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of keeping one.

As with any purchase, considering both benefits and drawbacks is an important step to making an informed decision.

Pros

There are many reasons to purchase and use a signature stamp. It is a useful tool for both personal and professional use that helps simplify or expedite certain tasks.

• Simplifies frequent and repeated signing
• Consistent appearance removes ambiguity
• Allows physically disabled to easily sign

Cons

There are a couple things to be wary of with signature stamps. Perhaps the greatest threat is that should your stamp get stolen, it allows the thief to then use it for fraudulent purposes. In 2003, a man admitted to stealing $802,000 over six years from the Massachusetts Teachers' Association through the use of a stamp to sign-off on fraudulent checks.⁵

• Certain businesses or organization may not accept stamped signatures
• Increases chance of fraud if it falls into the wrong hands

To prevent fraud, you may want to take measures to protect yourself. Keep your or your company's signature stamp in a limited access space such as a safe, locker, or locked closet. Only allow certain, authorized individuals access to your stamp, and keep the location of your stamp on a need-to-know basis.

Getting the Best Signature Stamp

Simply Stamps specializes in creating custom rubber stamps for personal and professional use. If you're considering simplifying the way you sign, then browse our selection of logo stamps and stamps with dates to find the signature stamp to fit your needs.

If you're wondering how to get a signature stamp, simply follow these steps:

1. Grab a white sheet of paper
2. Sign your name three times with a felt tip pen (minimum of 1" in length)
3. Choose a signature stamp style from Simply Stamps
4. Upload your signature and choose from available options
5. Place your order and Simply Stamps will ship it to you

Once you receive your custom signature stamp, store it in a dry, room-temperature space free of dust and debris. To clean your stamp, gently rinse your rubber stamp under warm water and carefully wipe clean.

See our complete guide on cleaning your stamp for more information.

References:

1. Legal Dictionary: The Free Dictionary
2. Bizfluent

DIY Holiday Cards

A homemade holiday card is a great way to show a loved one you care, whether it accompanies a gift or is the gift itself. Something you've made is always more sentimental because it shows thought and effort. Here at Simply Stamps, we have a variety of different craft stamps to choose from. Two of our favorites, the Do You Want to Build a Snowman and Snowman craft stamps are a match made it crafting heaven. Combine the two together to make a holiday card that's festive and also easy to make!

Christmas Decor

If you're creating your own holiday decor, the creative possibilities are endless. From centerpieces to wall decorations, 'tis the season to get crafty! You can use just about any craft stamps in our collection to create a unique picture that can be placed inside of a simple frame. Our Hanging Christmas Ornaments craft stamp plus dark green and maroon markers would make for simple yet elegant wall decor this holiday season.

Easy Handmade Ornaments

Christmas tree ornaments are a gift that may only be used once a year, but they will also be enjoyed for years and years to come. Making your own ornaments make it a gift that's even more special! We love this fun Snowman craft stamp because it stamps perfectly onto paper ornaments and leaves a blank canvas for you to color as you'd like. Add your name and the year you made it so your recipient will think of you each year when they hang it on their tree! Laminate your DIY ornament so it will last for many Christmases to come.

Gift Wrapping

For craft-lovers, the gift wrapping is often just as exciting as the gift itself. We love to package our gifts beautifully so our friends and family can see how much love we put into it! Craft stamps are a great way to add a fun, finishing touch to your gift wrapping. Use a gift tag stamp to address your gifts, or create your own wrapping paper by stamping a fun pattern onto plain paper. The best part about adding craft stamps to your gift wrapping is the opportunity to make it completely your own!

This holiday season, find what inspires you and get crafting! From home decorations to DIY holiday gifts, there's nothing more meaningful than something you've created with your own two hands. Check out our huge selection of craft stamps and see what speaks to you.

Happy Holidays to you and yours!

• Ramble Coffee in Worthington, OH

The inspiration for starting Ramble Coffee’s owners Sara and John was pretty simple: they wanted to bring adventure back to their hometown. This creative, coffee-obsessed duo focuses on single origin, Fair Trade coffees from organic certified farms. They roast fresh every week, offering free delivery in Worthington and special pricing when placing a wholesale order. They invite you to “explore the world of coffee” with them!

• Cake Ambition in Detroit, MI

Founder of Cake Ambition Jessica Bouren has a background in Interior Design and a Bachelors Degree in Fine Art & Design, so when her passion for baking collided with her artistic side, it only seemed natural. An award-winning pastry chef and a former Executive Pastry Chef, Jessica is now one of Detroit’s most cutting edge cake artists. She believes “when it comes to cake…… anything is possible!”

• Rye Restaurant & Lounge in Appleton, WI

With a passion for quality, Rye’s menu offers all fresh, local and organic foods whenever possible and artisan cocktails. Rye is J.R. Schoenfeld’s most recent restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

• Whisked Away in Charlotte, NC

Whisked Away offers a very unique service to their customers: surprise travel! Choose your region, travel dates and budget and Whisked Away plans the whole trip for you. They handle everything from the airfare to your accommodations, and even scope out what the weather will be like! One week before you depart, they send you an envelope in the mail with all of your SURPRISE travel details. What could possibly be more exhilarating?

• District Pour House & Kitchen in Kansas City, MO

With 34 infused spirits including three seasonal selections and over 100 different beer selections, there will always be a new drink to try at District Pour House & Kitchen. Their kitchen specializes in progressive American cuisine and offers everything from pulled pork sliders to lettuce wraps, street tacos to a Cuban sandwich.

• Genius Loci Jewelry in Phoenix, AZ

Genius Loci specializes in hand-painted, wooden jewelry inspired and created in the Sonoran Desert. Launched in March of 2016, each piece has somewhat of a geometric feel but it also unique in its own way. Their collection of necklace and earrings are unlike any other.

• Wool & Company in Saint Charles, IL

Whether you’ve been knitting and crocheting for years or are a complete beginner, this local yarn shop is a place for everyone. Their team of approachable yet knowledgeable members is always happy to help with your yarn and project-related questions. They also offer workshops and will even host your own special event. “We want our shop to feel more like going to a friend’s house… a friend that has over 10,000 skeins of yarn!”

• Poe’s Tavern in Jacksonville, FL

Named after and decorated in honor of the talented and troubled Edgar Allan Poe, this unique dining experience is something for both literary-lovers and foodies alike. Poe’s is best-known for their gourmet hamburgers and hand-cut fries, but offer an array of other delicious options. Their original location is located in Charleston, SC in case you don’t make it all the way south to Florida!

• Barre3 in Eugene, OR

Studio Owner Jessica Neely knew right away barre3 would be a perfect fit for the Eugene community. Whether you’re already a lover of barre3 or are completely new, “classes are designed to make everyone feel welcome and get a great workout.” This Eugene location will supply everything you need to enjoy this ballet barre, pilates and yoga-combined workout experience.

• Priest Ranch in Yountville, CA

Priest Ranch “believes all wines must stem from the land itself.” Winemaker Craft Becker takes a minimalist approach to winemaking. Aside from offering their selection of red, white and sparkling wines, they also host fun events and parties. Visit their Yountville tasting room any day of the week to taste their wines.

Here at Simply Stamps, we’re passionate about stamps, but we’re also passionate about supporting small businesses. It’s always a joy to see the different types of customers we have, what small businesses they own and what their passion is. We’re thankful for all of our customers from across the country and wish them the very best in all of their entrepreneur endeavors!

First, we collected the supplies we thought would be perfect for dressing up an ordinary envelope. Here's what we used:

• washi tape (and LOTS of it)
• embellishments
• scissors
• an extra fine tipped pen
• a plain, brown envelope
• a personalized address stamp

Next, we chose our three favorite washi tapes and added them to the left side of the envelope, using the scissors to remove the excess. We chose this simple pattern of alternating different wash tapes along the edge, but the creative possibilities are endless with this step. You can choose to line the full envelope with washi tape or create a box to house the name and address of your recipient, just to name a couple.

We then added a few embellishments to one of the washi tapes, choosing to use the small gem in the package to be sure the envelope was still post office friendly.

Using the fine-tipped pen, we created a very simple pattern of dashes along the remaining edges of the envelope. We also flipped the envelope over and included the pattern on the flap.

Next, we stamped the personalized return address stamp on the back flap of the envelope. When stamping your envelopes with a return address stamp, you always want to be sure you first open the envelope and lay it out flat, as pictured below. If you stamp your envelopes this way, you'll get a consistent and even impression every time!

Finally, we used the fine-tipped pen to address the envelope and prepare it for sending.

The only rule when creating mail art is it should always be designed with your recipient in mind! If you're sending a letter to someone who loves vintage items, go for a vintage theme. If they love all things floral, find flower stickers to add a few accents that will definitely be appreciated. We hope we've inspired you to give mail art a try of your own and send a beautifully decorated piece of mail to someone you love!

Here’s how to enter:

1. Follow us on Instagram (@simplystamps)
2. Tag three parents and/or teachers who are getting ready for back to school in one of our contest posts! We will post one photo per week until the deadline date.

*Bonus entry: Show us how you’re prepping for the new school year & use #simplybacktoschool (account must be public).*

Note: Each participant has a maximum of two entries, one for tagging on a contest post, and one for their own post using the contest hashtag.

Here’s what ONE lucky winner will win:

• Stamp of your choice, plus one additional ink cartridge
• Personalized stamp gift box, to give to your favorite parent or teacher!
• “Like a boss” desk plate
• AND, we’ll donate $100 on your behalf to Donors Choose and you can pick where you would like them to send the money.

Enter by September 4th for your chance to win! The randomly-selected winner will be announced on September 10th.

Contest Terms and Conditions

1.The promoter is: Simply Stamps whose registered office is at 2021 St. Augustine Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32207.

2. The competition is open to residents of the United States aged 18 years or older.

3. There is no entry fee and no purchase necessary to enter this competition.

4. By entering this competition, an entrant is indicating his/her agreement to be bound by these terms and conditions.

5. Closing date for entry will be September 4th, 2017. After this date no further entries to the competition will be permitted.

6.No responsibility can be accepted for entries not received for whatever reason.

How to Upload your Artwork:

Each custom stamp on Simply Stamps will have a few options for you to choose from before you add it to your cart. Custom stamps are available in self-inking, pre-inked and wood handle, and each style will leave a different impression with a different look and feel (click here to see which stamp is best for you). You’ll also select your preferred ink color, from black, blue, green, red or purple. Lastly, but most importantly, you’ll upload your artwork file. Simply select “choose file” and locate the file on your computer to upload your file.

What Artwork is Accepted & What is Preferred?

• To ensure the highest quality impression, all submitted artwork should be black and white with no gray or gradients.
• Accepted files include AI, PDF, EPS, TIFF, JPG, PNG, and BMP, however, our high quality lasers create the best stamps from original vector artwork. This includes AI and EPS files.
• Low resolution JPEGs or PNGs will not result in high quality stamp impressions. We ask all artwork be at least 300 dpi so we can provide you with the best stamp possible.
• Maximum file size is 8 MB.
• If you have any special instructions, you can enter them in the “notes” section. Would you like a proof of your stamp before we send it into production? Specify that here!

These standards have all been put in place to make ordering your custom stamp easy, but if you find you still have questions our Customer Focus Team is always here to help! Whether you have a different file type than mentioned above or need a higher resolution image, reach out to us and we’ll be sure to find a solution. Are you ready to order your custom stamp? Shop here!