Have you tried the new Classic ink pads from the 2018-19 annual catalog yet?
If you have, then you may already know about all of the new features and improvements. If you haven't, you really should watch the video Stampin' Up! made to show you.
If I could, I'd replace all of my older pads with the new design, I'm that impressed. For now, I've ordered just the new colors assortment and the 2018-20 In Colors. Of course as always, I've also ordered the ink refills for them all. I like using the refill bottles, aka reinkers, for watercoloring in addition to the obvious reinking of my well loved ink pads.
Get 3 Bonus Bucks coupons, worth $15 to use in September, when you order the New Colors Assortment, the 2018-20 In Colors and only 3 reinkers by the end of August. What's Bonus Bucks? Click here for information about this special, ending August 31st. Basically: for every $50 spent in a single order in August, you'll get a coupon code for $5 emailed to you use in September. That's kind of like a 30% discount on your August order.
Need a summary of the video info? See below.
What’s better about the case?
We wanted the new case to:
- Be less confusing to open. Opening the new ink pad case is now more simple and intuitive. Just insert your thumb in the lip at the front of the case and lift it to open.
- Have a tighter fit between the lid and the base. With the new design, the lid doesn’t accidentally become disconnected, which was a common problem with the old case style. With use, the lid will be easier to slide open and close.
- Be stackable. The ability to stack the cases makes them easier to store and transport. We designed a nub in each bottom corner that fits nicely into the dimple on the top of another case. Tip: Removing the label stickers from the bottom of the case (after applying the needed labels to the case) also makes the ink pads stack a little better.
- Include improved labels and stickers. Here are a few of the ways we’ve done that:
- The top label now has a cleaner, bolder design and a larger color swatch, making it easier to see the ink’s color.
- The stickers include a new In Color icon.
- We’ve continued to provide color stickers that can be placed on the end of each case to easily identify the ink’s color at a glance.
- We’re introducing a new color sticker you can place on the inside of the case, so you can easily distinguish the ink’s color when the case is open.
How is the ink different?
We improved our ink formula because we noticed that our old ink would sometimes bubble, especially on new pads and with lighter colors. When this happened, the ink wasn’t as even and smooth when stamped as we’d like to see it.
The improved ink formula will:
- Reduce ink bubbles.
- Help you get a smooth coating of ink on the stamp.
- Help lay down the ink better.
How do I know if my Classic Ink Refill has the new and improved ink?
Beginning with the 2018–2019 Annual Catalog, all ink refills will have the improved ink formula. Also, if you recently received an ink refill and it has the new branding label, it contains the improved ink formula.
Can I use an old ink refill on a new ink pad or a new ink refill on an old ink pad?
Yes! You absolutely can with the exception of the Basic Gray Archival and Basic Gray Classic Stampin’ inks. Archival and Classic inks should not be mixed. All other Classic Stampin’ inks will work fine.
Where is the archival ink?
Archival ink will no longer be part of the Stampin' Up! ink offering. Basic Gray will now be part of the Classic Stampin’ ink family. Please note that you cannot use an archival ink refill on the new Basic Gray Classic Stampin’ Pad, as this will ruin the new ink pad. Only use Classic Stampin’ ink refills on Classic Stampin’ pads. Your best options for black ink pads are the Tuxedo Black Memento Pad, to use with the Stampin' Blends and general black stamping needs, and the Jet Black StāzOn Pad, to use for watercolor and nonporous surface stamping. Both are still part of the Stampin' Up! ink offering. Both the Memento and StāzOn pads are high-quality inks that perform to your needs.
Has the pricing changed with the update to the ink pad cases?
Yes, there will be a price increase with the updated Classic Stampin’ Pads. For example, US pricing was $6.50 USD and now will be $7.50 USD. However, I think you'll find the new design well worth the difference.
