Self-Inking Stamp: How To Refill or Replace Your Ink PadUpdated an hour ago

Is your self-inking stamp leaving light or faded impressions? It might be time for an ink refill!

The good news? You don't need to replace your entire stamp. All ExcelMark self-inking stamps feature a refillable or replaceable ink pad, making it easy to keep your impressions looking crisp and professional. 

Follow this simple guide to learn how to fill your ink pad. The process below is applicable to most self-inking stamp types and models.

When Should You Refill or Replace Your Ink Pad?

Over time, your stamp's ink pad will naturally lose ink with repeated use. Here are a few signs it may be time for a ink pad refill or replacement:

• Light or Faded Impressions: Your stamp isn't producing the same bold, clear impressions it once did.

• Uneven Ink Coverage: Parts of your stamped design appear lighter than others.

• Inconsistent Results: Your impressions look patchy even when you're applying steady, even pressure.

Which Option is Better? Refill or Replace My Stamp Pad?

Not sure which option is best? Here's a quick comparison.

❌ Replace When: You ink pad is worn or damaged.

❌ Replace If: You don't want to worry about ink compatibility.

✅ Refill When: Your ink pad is in good condition

✅ Refill If: You have compatible refill ink. Find compatible self-inking refill ink here

How to Refill or Replace Your Self-Inking Stamp Pad

Refilling or replacing the ink pad is generally the easiest and cleanest way to refresh your self-inking stamp. The exact process may vary depending on your stamp's brand and model, but most self-inking stamps generally follow a similar process.

Step 1: Find Your Compatible Ink Replacement

Replacement Ink Pads: Locate the brand and model number. Usually this is found on the face of the stamp or etched onto your stamps ink pad. Then, purchase the correct replacement ink pad. 

Find a compatible replacement ink pad to keep your impressions looking sharp and professional.

Shop Replacement Ink Pads

Refill Ink: Any Self-inking refill ink with be compatible with any self-inking stamp.

Shop Refill Ink Bottles

Step 2: Lock Your Stamp

Hold your stamp securely and press the base down slightly, then lock your stamp by pushing down the locking switches or buttons at the same time on both sides of the stamp.

Helpful Tip: ExcelMark stamps lock in two positions: partially pressed and fully pressed.

To remove the ink pad, lock the stamp in the partially pressed position. You should still be able to see the ink pad at the base of the stamp. This releases pressure on the mechanism so the ink pad can slide out.

Important: Do not lock the stamp in the fully pressed position. This pushes the ink pad up inside the stamp, making it inaccessible.

Step 3: Remove the Ink Pad

Now that your stamp is locked, simply push the stamp pad out, using your thumbs. 

Helpful Tip: Handle the pad by its plastic casing whenever possible to keep ink off your fingers.

Step 4: Refill Or Replace Your Ink Pad

To Refill Your Ink Pad: Using your ExcelMark Self-inking Stamp Refill Ink, simply add a few drops dispursed across the ink pad and then use the tip of the bottle to evenly spread the ink. 

Then place the pad back into the stamp with the pad side facing down. Let the ink settle for 15 minutes before using the stamp to ensure even ink distribution and crisp impressions.

To Replace Your Ink Pad: Slide the compatible replacement ink pad into the same opening, keeping it oriented correctly with the pad side facing down.

Step 5: Unlock and Test Your Stamp

Once the ink has settled for 15 minutes, if you refilled your ink pad, or once your replacement pad is in place, simply release the locking mechanism by either switching the tabs to unlock, pressing the side buttons, or by pushing the base of the stamp upwards to release the lock and allow the stamp to return to its normal position.

Make a few test impressions on scrap paper to check that the ink is transferring evenly.

Impression still not stamping clear or evenly? Follow these tips first:  

1. Check Your Stamping Surface: Make sure you're stamping on a smooth, flat surface. Textured or uneven materials can prevent the stamp from making full contact, resulting in incomplete impressions.

2. Apply Even Pressure: Press straight down with steady, even pressure. Avoid tilting, rocking, or sliding the stamp, as this can cause blurry or smudged impressions. Release the stamp in one smooth motion.

3. Check Your Ink Pad: An unevenly inked or oversaturated ink pad can cause partial, blurry, or blotchy impressions. Make sure your ink pad is properly inked and evenly saturated.

Recently refilled your ink pad? Excess or unevenly distributed ink may be the cause. Allow at least 15 minutes after adding ink for it to absorb and distribute into the pad before testing your stamp again.

Helpful Tip: Standard self-inking stamp inks work best on smooth, absorbent paper. Glossy, coated, or nonporous surfaces may require specialty ink.

Still need help?

Our RubberStamps.com Customer Support team is happy to help you identify your stamp model, find the right replacement supplies, and troubleshoot stamp impression issues. Contact our Customer Support team so we can help you find a solution.