Craft Pads

There are several differences between Craft (pigment) and Classic (Dye) inks. Classic ink absorbs into the paper; Craft ink sits on top of the paper and does not absorb. Craft ink tends to be thicker than Classic dye ink and is often preferred for scrapbooking because Craft inks are more resistant to fading than most Classic inks.

Craft ink pads and scrapbooks:
Craft ink is pigment ink, and is more fade resistant than dye inks. The Craft pad contains binding agents that help seal it.

Drying time and Craft pads:
Craft inks dry more slowly than Classic inks. You may heat-set the Craft inks to speed drying time or set them aside to dry. After heat-setting, Craft inks will resist all but the most deliberate efforts to smear them. Heat-setting and air-drying produce the same color results. When heat-setting, be careful of heating too long, which may cause a scorched look.

Embossing:
Because of the longer drying time, you have time to apply your embossing powder without rushing; therefore, the Craft pads are an excellent choice for embossing.

Watercoloring:
To watercolor stamped images, your best choice is Classic ink or Stampin’ Write® markers.

Craft Ink and slick surfaces like tile, porcelain, and terra cotta:
The Craft ink will not dry on slick surfaces, even when heat-set. However, if you seal the ink with clear embossing powder, you get a glossy finish.

Re-inking Craft pads:
When re-inking, squeeze several drops of Craft ink on top of the pad and work in with the tip of the re-inker (or use a stamp), and stamp repeatedly until the refill ink is absorbed into the pad. Do not leave a layer of ink on top of the pad, as this may cake over time. As with any Stampin' Up! product, exposure to extreme temperatures may affect the quality of the ink. Keep out of heat and sunlight, and avoid extreme temperature changes (such as might occur if stored in an unheated garage in the winter or in a car trunk in the summer). Pads subjected to extreme temperature changes may harden.