New Ink Pads?

If you've been following the Stampin' UP! news, you've probably heard that they are coming out with newly designed ink pads.  I want to spend a minute going over the changes, and the "why's", so you know what is going on.

First of all, the new design:

Isn't it pretty?

Why

• The case’s manufacturing mold was about to expire. Stampin' Up! can only use a mold a limited number of times before it needs to be replaced, so they had to decide if they wanted to order more of the same molds or try to improve the design. They chose to improve it!  YAY!
• Stampin' Up! wanted to align the updated case with the color refresh and improvements to the ink. In addition, they chose to time these changes with Stampin’ Up!’s rebranding and packaging updates. This way, when you invest in the new colors, you are also getting the new and improved ink pads at the same time! They wanted to make these updates and changes in a way that was most cost efficient for you.

What's better about the case?

•  It's 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.
•  Has 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.
•  Pads are stackable. The ability to stack the cases makes them easier to store and transport. They were designed with 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.

•  They include improved labels and stickers. Here are a few of the ways that's been accomplished:
•  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.
•  Color stickers are provided that can be placed on the end of each case to easily identify the ink’s color at a glance.
•  There's 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?

Some inks had a tendency to "bubble" on the pad, and it was hard to get a good image.  So here are the changes:

• Reduce ink bubbles.
• Help you get a smooth coating of ink on the stamp.
• Help lay down the ink better.

I've ordered a sampling of inks with the new pads, and will begin to show the difference in my classes, starting this month.  So if you have questions, please ask!  And remember, you can continue to use your current ink pads - only order new colors if you like them, or replace any pads that need to be replaced.  

The only thing to remember is to only use NEW reinkers on your NEW pads.  Although you can use your old bottles it will change the ink (the de-foamer) so you won't want to do that.  And DO NOT use your Archival Gray ink refill on your new Basic Gray pad--the inks are very different and you will ruin your new pad.  

I can't wait to show you these new pads.  I think they are much improved, and it's an exciting change along with the new color revamp.  Oh, can June get here any sooner?