Choosing a Pad

There are a number of points to consider when choosing a pad for a particular project. The easiest way is to simply send the parts to us directly and we will choose the optimum pad for your application. However, if you keep a few things in mind you should be able to make a good choice on your own. Remember that the object is to roll the pad onto the image not to stamp it.

Size

Choose a pad that has a contact area at least 20-25 percent larger than the image area. You don't want to use a pad that picks up the image on its edges or you will create distortion. On the other hand a pad that is too large will be more costly and may pick up ink that has collected on the edges of the plate. Also remember to check your user manual for the overall height dimension allowed on your specific machine. Some pads may be too tall.

Hardness

Always start with the hardest pad available (highest shore rating). A hard pad will minimize distortion and be less likely to trap air between itself and the plate. It may seem counterintuitive, but a harder pad will work best on a textured surface. However, the harder a pad is the more difficult it is to compress. A large hard pad may overload the motor on your machine before full compression. If this is the case choose a softer pad. A hard pad may also damage a particularly delicate part such as a Christmas ornament.