Green and blue card that says 'Hello' on the front

Stamping is a fantastic crafting technique and can have great outcomes whether you're a seasoned crafter or just starting out.

One of the most crucial elements of stamping is choosing the right ink!

The ink you use can drastically affect the outcome of your project, from the vibrancy of the colours, to the definition of the stamps impression.

We've put together a guide to help you navigate your way through the best inks for your stamping projects.

The Best Inks For Stamping

Dye Ink

Dye inks are a water-based inks that are best for paper projects as they dry fairly quickly.

The colour quickly absorbs into the paper, resulting in vibrant outcomes. However, they aren't water-proof, which means that they may run or smear if they come in contact with water after application.

Top Picks: Ranger Ink, Tsukineko Memento Dew Drops Dye Ink

Pigment Inks

This type of ink is usually found in an ink pad.

Pigment inks are thicker and more opaque than dye inks, making them great for projects that require vibrant colours and detailed lines.

They sit on the surface of the paper for longer rather than soaking straight in, which also makes them great for heat embossing and other mixed media techniques.

Top Picks: Versafine Pigment Ink, Tsukineko VersaMagic Ink

Embossing Ink

Embossing inks are a must-have for anyone interested in adding dimension to their stamping projects.

These inks are clear, sticky ad slow-drying, which allows embossing powders to adhere to the stamped design before being set with a heat tool. The result is a raised, textured finish that can add a touch of elegance to any project.

Top Picks: Tim Holtz Embossing Ink

Distress Inks

Distress Inks, created by Tim Holtz, are a favourite among crafters who love creating vintage or distressed effects.

These water-based dye inks are unique in that they stay wet longer, allowing for easy blending and layering of colours. They are perfect for creating aged, worn looks on paper, and they react beautifully with water to create interesting textures and effects.

Top Picks: Tim Holtz Distress Ink

Example of a stamped greeting card from CraftStash

While the type of ink is crucial, the quality and style of the ink pad you choose are equally important.

Ink pads come in various sizes, shapes, and materials, each suited for different stamping needs.

Foam pads, for example, are known for their ability to hold more ink, providing a juicier and more vibrant stamp, ideal for larger stamps or full coverage.

Felt pads, on the other hand, offer a firmer surface, giving you more control, especially with detailed or intricate stamps.

Some ink pads are raised, allowing you to easily ink larger stamps or even direct-to-paper techniques.

It's essential to choose an ink pad that complements your chosen ink type to ensure the best transfer of ink from the pad to your stamp and onto your project.

Investing in high-quality ink pads can make a significant difference in the clarity and consistency of your stamped images.

Take a look at our full collection of ink pads today.

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So, whether you're working on paper, fabric, glass or mixed media, there's an ink out there that will be perfectly suited to your needs, you just need to know what to look for!

By understanding inks and their properties, you'll be able to make more informed decisions when it comes to your crafting. Experiment with different inks and surfaces until you find the perfect one for you.

Happy crafting!