ABSTRACT
Since 1990, photopolymer stamps make up the lion’s share of the rubber stamp market (Figure 20.1). In the U.S., vulcanized rubber dies still exist, but are decreasing in numbers due to the replacement of the Ludlow and Linotype machines by more cost efficient manufacturing processes such as ultraviolet and laser (Figure 20.2). Until the introduction of flat-die stamps, the number of pre-inked stamp manufacturers was small due to the high manufacturing costs associated with this type of process. The introduction of light-burst and thermal manufacturing processes expanded the pre-inked stamp market. The ease of machine cost and operation allows office supply stores and private individuals to make quality pre-inked stamps at minimal cost, minimal training, and minimal space requirements.4
