Abstract: The method (10) of the present invention includes a first step of designing an image to be reproduced by the stamp pad (12). A pre-inked rubber material (14) derived from an ink and plasticizer premix is then super-cooled to immobilize the ink constituents (28) and harden the pre-inked material (14). A controller (52) then processes the information communicated from the computer (50) in order to control the operation of an engraver (54) such as a laser beam generator or a pantograph. The engraved material (12) is then warmed to room temperature and affixed to an appropriate handle. Alternatively, the selected image (38) is accomplished on the top surface of the stamp pad (12) during the curing procedure. In this procedure, the premix material (22) is heated from the bottom surface (30) to a curing temperature up to a selected height. A heat source (62) is applied to the image surface (18) such as to raise the material directly below to an appropriate curing temperature level to a selected depth.

Abstract: An improved microporous marking structure has a layer of a microporous material containing a marking fluid and an absorbent backing layer superposed thereon which shortens processing time by absorbing excess marking fluid from the microporous layer. The marking structure according to the invention may be advantageously used to make a self-inking hand stamp. No lengthy step for removing excess ink from the microporous layer is needed.

Abstract: An improved microporous marking structure has a layer of a microporous material containing a marking fluid and an absorbent backing layer superposed thereon which shortens processing time by absorbing excess marking fluid from the microporous layer. The marking structure according to the invention may be advantageously used to make a self-linking hand stamp. No lengthy step for removing excess ink from the microporous layer is needed.