With the launch of Simon Hurley create. Stellar Ink Pads, we’re introducing a fresh, foam-tastic option for your stamping adventures. While our original felt pads have been longtime favorites, they’ll gradually be phased out by the end of September 2025 or while supplies last. But don’t worry—both pad types use the same vibrant dye ink formula you know and love! This side-by-side comparison breaks down the differences between felt and foam. If you’re team felt, you’re not out of luck! A DIY Felt Dye Ink Pad is available, so you can keep building your felt pad collection using coordinating re-inkers. Simon also introduced a DIY Stellar Foam Ink Pad, making it easy to turn any reinker into your own custom foam pad.
Felt vs. Foam Ink Pads: What’s the Difference?
Felt Ink Pads (Simon Hurley create. Dye Ink Felt Pads original)
Made of compressed layers of felt, this ink pad delivers a more controlled amount of ink, offers great longevity and doesn’t need to be re-inked as often. It transfers ink to your stamp or tool when you apply firm pressure—tap the ink pad several times directly onto the stamp for maximum ink coverage.
Foam Ink Pads (Simon Hurley create. Stellar Foam Dye Ink Pads)
With an ultra-smooth, texture-free foam surface, this ink pad releases ink effortlessly with a light tap, provides even coverage for crisp stamping, and requires more frequent re-inking due to its higher ink flow.
Watch this video for instructions on how to re-ink Simon Hurley Stellar Ink Pads
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Simon Hurley create. Stellar inks react with water?
A: Yes! These are made with the same water-based dye ink formula as in the original pad.
Q: Can I use Stellar inks for heat embossing?
A: Stellar Inks dry quickly, so they’re not ideal for heat embossing. Stick to slower-drying embossing or pigment inks if you're embossing.
Q: Can I use Alcohol Markers with Stellar Ink Pads?
A: Yes, you can use Alcohol Markers with Stellar Ink Pads.
Q: Are there re-inkers available for Stellar Ink Pads?
A: Yes! All Simon Hurley create. Dye Ink and Stellar Re-inkers can be used to re-ink either pad. If you already have a Dye Re-inker in the same color name, it will work with the new Stellar foam pads, too.
Q: Can I use the original Simon Hurley create. re-inkers with the Stellar pads?
A: Yes. Since the ink formula hasn’t changed, re-inkers labeled with the same color name are fully compatible with both felt and foam versions.
Q: How do these foam pads compare to other brands?
A: Simon worked closely with Ranger to develop what he feels is the perfect ink load—juicy enough for vibrant results, but not so wet that it gets messy. The balance gives you crisp impressions without flooding your stamp.
Q: Will felt pads still be available?
A: Felt pads will continue to be available while supplies last. Simon also introduced a DIY Felt Dye Ink Pad, making it easy to turn any reinker into your own custom felt pad.
Q: Will new colors be released in felt pads?
A: All new colors of Stellar Ink will be produced using foam. A dry-felt DIY pad is available. Crafters will be able to build their Simon Hurley Ink palette using coordinating re-inkers which are formulated to work in both felt and foam.
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