Starting a Rubber Stamp Shop

You can also help small businesses develop a unique brand image.

Different kinds of rubber stamps are available in the market such as self-inking or embossed types. They can be made differently based on their type using the traditional way or new technologies.

Starting your own rubber stamp shop will enable you to showcase your artistic talents and leave your own mark as a creative entrepreneur.

Getting started in your own rubber stamp shop

Create a business plan to map out how you will operate your rubber stamp shop.

These will include the type of rubber stamp you will offer, your target market, marketing and advertising method, start-up cost you can afford, overhead expenses and price you will charge for your creations.

For more information on the different ways of making rubber stamps, see the website.

Decide whether you want to produce your own rubber stamps or have it outsourced by another party.

Making the rubber stamps yourself using the traditional way of hand carving, you will need to hire engravers. If you opt to use stamp-making machines, you will need to hire an operator. Stamp-making machines may be convenient to use but they will require a bigger start-up capital. You may also want to outsource the production of the rubber stamps to another party if you don’t want to go into the technical side of it in the beginning.

Search for potential wholesalers for your raw materials like rubber stamps and ink pads, machines or stamps manufacturer (if you are outsourcing the production aspect) for the best price and quality. Buying in bulk lowers the price compared to buying per piece.

Create a portfolio or catalogue of rubber stamp designs you intend to make.

Once you have determined your target market, you can find out what sells in that market and come up with an initial list of designs to attract customers. You can grow your portfolio as you get more clients. As your client base grows, you can have a better handle on what designs attract them by observing which designs sell the most and by interviewing them on what designs they are looking for.

Search for a potential shipping partner, preferably one with package tracking.

You can advertise your business by sending out your catalogue to the local school supplies, office supplies, stationery, crafts, and toy stores, as well as schools and offices. You can also create a website to showcase your designs for a wider reach of customers or placing an online advertising for your products.

You may also want to participate in local events by providing demonstrations or host stamping parties like what other established rubber stamping businesses do.