I’ve had quite a few of my customers ask what the difference is between the Classic and Craft Stampin’ Pads and which I think are better.
Classic Stampin’ Pads :
- Our Classic inks are dye based inks that are water soluble
- Dye inks are transparent and absorbs into the paper;
- Dye Inks dry quickly on all types of paper making them easier to work with.
- Dye inks are not waterproof and the colors will bleed if they get wet.
- Classic inks are safe for scrapbooks but will fade over time.
- Works well on coated papers (Glossy Cardstock) but tends to run or bleed on highly absorbent papers.
Craft Stampin’ Pads :
- Craft ink is pigment ink which is a dry, powdery agent that uses a binding agent to help it adhere to paper.
- Craft pad contains natural binding agents that are safe for use in scrapbooks.
- Pigment ink sits on top of the paper and does not absorb.
- Pigment ink is often preferred for scrapbooking because pigment inks are more resistant to fading than most dye inks, so you will get the longest-lasting color with Craft pads
- Pigment Inks take longer to dry and are a good choice to use as an embossing ink.
- Pigments are more light and heat stable than most dyes, which makes pigment inks a good choice when your finished art will be displayed
- If heat-set, Craft inks will resist all but the most deliberate efforts to smear them (such as wetting your finger and rubbing the ink).
- Heat-setting and air-drying produce the same color results.
All this being said, I prefer to use the Classic Ink. I have used them almost exclusively since I started to stamp and scrapbook and in 6+ years have never seen any signs of fading. I love that they dry almost instantly, I don’t want to have to wait for my ink to dry before I can finish my projects. I have used the Craft Inks and for certain projects they are the best choice. You should try both to see which is right for you.










