Guide to Rubber Stamps

Rubber stamp styles

There are basically two styles of rubber stamps: traditional and self-inking stamps. Traditional rubber stamps are typically the best value and are readily available with phrases, such as Draft, Paid, Approved or offer fill-in lines for users to date or initial. These ink stampers usually come with a wood handle and require an inkpad, whereas the self-inking stamp has a built in pad. Traditional rubber stamps are ideal if you want to be able to use different color inks, or if you are not planning to use them all the time. Self-inking stamps provide the convenience of a quick stamp with no mess.

I recommend: Fred L. Lake & Co. offers an extensive collection of rubber stamps with side-by-side comparisons to help you find the right product. StampsOnSale.com offers some of the best values on rubber stamps. For a directory of vendors of self-inking rubber stamps, visit Business.com.

Customize your rubber stamps

Custom rubber stamps can be designed with your logo, return address, banking information, business name or any other information that pertains to your business. If you need to sign large quantities of checks or other documents, order rubber stamps with your signature.

I recommend: RubberStamps.net and Rubber Stamps Unlimited offer interactive tools for designing custom rubber stamps online.  Rubber Stamp Champ offers a large variety of self-inking and pre-inked custom rubber stamps, including signature rubber stamps — simply upload a jpeg of your signature to order. Browse RubberStampingLinks.com to find other companies that specialize in custom rubber stamps.

Special rubber stamps

If your business takes you on the road, consider portable ink stampers that you can take with you.

I recommend: Among its many rubber stamp offerings, Acorn Sales Company offers slim custom designed rubber stamps designed to hit the road with you. Rubber Stamp Champ also sells pre-inked and self-inking travel rubber stamps.

Rubber stamp accessories

Rubber stamps don't require much in terms of accessories - usually, stamp pads and refills will do the trick.

I recommend: For basic accessories for ink stampers or traditional pre-inked rubber stamps, shop office supply stores like Office Depot or OfficeMax.