Rock hard Basic Black ink pad

[LynnCBehnke]

My stamping stuff had been carefully packed away for three years following two moves. I was delighted that my stamp pads were still juicy and ready to stamp, except Basic Black.
Because I taught classes, I have about six, and they are not only dry, they are rock hard. Re-inking does not solve the problem. Does anyone know if these are salvageable?

[bzzzeee]

Hi Lynn, Oh no! It would be bad enough if it was one pad, but six?! ACK! I don't have a solution for you but your post has me heading for my craft room to check my black pads. I moved 3x in 18 months and haven't completely unpacked everything yet, although I recently unwrapped my inks. I will see what condition mine are in and let you know if I have any ideas. I wonder if it might be worth totally rinsing one out with water and seeing if it will soften up. Hmmmmm...

[MSBetsyZ]

There is a product called Perfect Ink Refresher that rehydrates stamp pads. Simon Says Stamps is one retailer that carries it.

You could try just spritzing with water on one of them, maybe. At least having six pads you have some wiggle room for experimentation.

[BnSCC]

Stamping doesn't carry Basic Black anymore, except in the pigment Craft pad, so I would suggest getting a different new pad.

[stampinstacy2010]

Stampin' Up! does not carry Basic Black in Classic or Craft ink. They now carry Archival Black.

[stampin stacy]

A "Rock Hard" ink pad is the strangest thing isn't it, lol. I bought a multi package of mini Memento's pads once and one of them was rock hard. It could not be saved. SORRY but if re-inking hasn't softened and revived your pad then I doubt anything else would either including Refresher, been there - tried that. Didn't work, still could have created major dents on my desk top if I banged the ink pad on it.

[Brenda71]

The Basic Black Classic Ink had a few issues over the years. My old pads were purple when they weren't inked up enough. I've since thrown them away (had 2, I think). The newer Archival Basic Black is amazing!! Basic Gray is now only available in the Archival format also.

[stamphappy1650]

Just buy new ones with better ink than the BB