How to Refill a Self-Inking Stamp

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By Tricia Goss
eHow Contributing Writer

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Refill a Self-Inking Stamp

A self-inking stamp uses a rubber stamp pad, like most stamps. However, it also contains an ink pad, which is built into the frame of the stamp. The stamp pad rests upon the ink when not in use, and then rotates as you push the stamp down onto the paper. While the ink in these stamps does last quite a while, it will eventually run out. Do not throw the empty stamp away though. Take a couple of minutes and refill it.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Self-inking stamp
Squeeze or roller bottle of ink

Step 1

Press the stamp down slightly, no more than a quarter of an inch.
Step 2

Squeeze the button-like indents on the sides of the stamp cap while continuing to press it down. This will secure the stamp into this position. If your stamp does not have the side indents, simply continue to hold the stamp down slightly.
Step 3

Find the ink pad, which will look like a horizontal strip on the front of the stamp. It may have the maker's logo on it. Push the ink pad out from the back of the stamp to the front with your index finger. Pull it the remainder of the way out of the front.
Step 4

Keep the ink pad horizontal. Drip five or six drops directly onto the pad. If you are using a bottle with a roller, set the inkpad down and roll the bottle back and forth across the ink pad several times.
Step 5

Set the stamp on a stack of several pieces of scrap paper. Slide the ink pad back into the slot on the stamp. Push the stamp down onto the paper to release the button locks and to absorb any excess ink.