Custom rubber stamps are typically made through various processes, including a method where the design is flashed directly into a rubber material.
Creating a custom rubber stamp involves transforming a design or text into a raised rubber image that can be inked and pressed onto a surface. While several techniques exist, a modern method utilizes specialized machinery for efficiency and precision.
Common Methods for Custom Rubber Stamp Creation
Here are some of the prevalent ways custom rubber stamps are manufactured:
- Traditional Vulcanization: An older method involving creating a matrix (mold) from the design, placing rubber material over it, and using heat and pressure (vulcanization) to cure the rubber into the desired shape.
- Laser Engraving: A popular digital method where a laser beam engraves the design directly onto a sheet of rubber, removing material to create the raised image.
- Flash Exposure (Pre-Inked): A more recent technique, particularly for pre-inked stamps, where a light-sensitive material is exposed through a negative of the design, hardening the image area while the non-image area remains porous to hold ink.
- Flashing Directly into a Mold: As described in some processes, this involves using a special machine to transfer the image directly into the mold of the stamp.
The Flashing-into-Mold Process
Based on the reference provided, one method for creating custom rubber stamps involves flashing the image directly into the stamp's mold. This process can be broken down into key steps:
- Design Preparation: The custom text or design is prepared digitally or physically.
- Typesetting and Proofing: The prepared design or text is typeset and then proofed to ensure accuracy and layout are correct before proceeding.
- Flashing: A special machine is used to "flash" the image. This involves a process where light or energy is used to transfer or create the image on or within the stamp material/mold.
- Image Transfer to Mold: The special machine is capable of flashing the image directly into the mold of the stamp, creating the detailed relief necessary for printing.
This method streamlines the creation process by directly embedding the design into the stamp's form using advanced machinery and techniques after the initial design and proofing stages.
