Information on Stampin' Up's New Classic Ink Pads

I know everyone wants to see stamping, but I really wanted to post this explanation of Stampin' Up's new stamp pads because I think it's important.  From now on, it really matters that you don't press hard when you ink up your stamps.  The pads are really moist and almost feel like the pad on a VersaMark ink pad.  As a matter of fact, some Demosntrators have said that because the pads are so moist, the ink stays wet a little longer which enables embossing without having to use a Craft Ink Pad.  So, I'll be giving embossing a shot and let you know how that works!

Bottom Line: The new pads really do give GREAT coverage and I'm excited to start using them and I love the new labels too!  Just remember that because the pads are so moist, you'll need to give the ink more time to dry, especially if you live in a humid climate.

Firm Foam Stampin' Pads:

Per Stampin' Up: "With the introduction of the 2012-2013 annual catalog, Stampin Up has made a very big change to its Stampin’ Pads.

Introducing firm foam pads! They change your stamping experience for the better.
We know you’re going to love these new Stampin’ Pads—just look at all the exciting benefits listed below:

• Provide better ink coverage for your stamps!
• Light-tap stamping produces flawless images!

In addition, our new Stampin’ Pads

• Create wonderfully solid images. The Firm Foam releases more ink onto your rubber stamp than the felt pads. When using the Firm Foam pad, your stamp will get an even, solid covering of ink that you may not have been able to achieve with the felt pads. Please note: if you are using the ink pad frequently you may need to re-ink your Firm Foam pad more often.
• Have a crisply printed, glossy label on the top of the pad that is easier to read and that will not fade or chip off!
• Come with color name labels in all four languages (English, Spanish, French, and German)--just choose your language, peel it off the back, and add it to the side of the pad for easy identification!
• Use the same patented flip-top case design that stores the inking surface upside down, so the pad surface stays moist!
• Are available in all colors, including our exclusive In Colors!

Please note: Five ink colors have undergone formula changes to improve functionality and color stability with the new firm foam pads. These colors are

• Basic Black
• Basic Gray
• Marina Mist
• Perfect Plum
• Tempting Turquoise

All five colors of the reformulated inks have been fully tested and approved. While using the new ink formula in the old Stampin’ Pads is fine, we do not recommend using the old ink formula for these five colors in the new firm foam pads. Any refills purchased after April 30, 2012, will contain the new formulated ink.*"

Feel free to contact me if you have any questions and have a great weekend.  My back is feeling better, so I'll be back to stamping this weekend; thanks for your patience!