How to Make Rubber Stamps - Comparing Methods of Manufacture
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How to Make Rubber Stamps: Comparing Manufacturing Methods
Learn about three different techniques for making rubber stamps and discover how to start your own rubber stamp business, comparing vulcanized, laser-engraved, and polymer stamp manufacturing methods.
Vulcanized Rubber Stamps
Traditional red rubber stamps are typically produced using a vulcanizing press, a method patented in 1890 by Charles Schultze. This cost-effective technique is ideal for mass production where the same molds are reused. Creating custom stamps with unique molds, however, increases costs significantly.
Mold Creation:
A master plate, made from metal or polymer and featuring raised artwork, is essential for mold production. Pressing the master plate into a matrix board creates the mold, which is then paired with raw rubber in a vulcanizing press. The heat and pressure cause the rubber to fill the mold's design, curing it for about 10 minutes.
Cost: A vulcanizing system costs around $12,000 AUD.
Pros: Low production costs for large batches and effective ink transfer.
Cons: High cost for creating master plates and molds for custom designs.
Laser Engraved Rubber Stamps
Laser engraving requires rubber with a consistent thickness and a flawless surface. The process relies on laser speed, wattage, and rubber density, with higher wattage engravers achieving deeper cuts more quickly. Efficient dust extraction is critical to maintain machine performance.
Production Process:
Good quality rubber sheets, typically A4 in size, are engraved with a computer-controlled laser. Regular maintenance of lenses, mirrors, and exposed parts enhances machine efficiency.
Cost: A 25-watt laser engraving machine suitable for stamp making costs approximately $40,000.
Pros: Computer-controlled production allows for easy creation of custom stamps.
Cons: High initial investment and ongoing maintenance costs.
Liquid Polymer Rubber Stamps
Transforming liquid polymer into solid stamps involves UV light exposure, creating reliefs using a negative image. Modern developments have simplified negative production, eliminating the need for traditional photographic chemicals.
Steps:
1. Print images on Vellum using a laser printer.
2. Sandwich the artwork negative and polymer sachet between two glass sheets, exposing them to UV light.
3. Wash away excess polymer and cure the stamp die, then cut into individual stamps.
Cost: Machines range from $3,500 to $15,000 AUD, depending on features.
Pros: Lower initial investment, clear stamps ideal for craft projects, and controlled stamp relief.
Cons: Early polymers had ink transfer issues, but technology has improved over time.
Summary
Most large stamp manufacturers use a combination of these methods. The unmounted rubber stamp dies can be attached to various mounts, such as hand stamps or self-inking stamps. Craft stamps might use wooden or clear acrylic blocks with adhesives or InstaGrip mats. Popular mount brands include Trodat, Colop, and Shiny, while Australia's Astron Industries offers the Vuestamp and the Ideal range of self-inking mounts.
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