When I first started stamping I could never get a clear image with brand new stamps. I used quality paper and quality ink. What was the problem? I was informed by a stamping friend “You need to condition your stamps before using them.” Huh? Brand spanking new photopolymer stamps and red rubber stamps have super clean stamping surfaces. Ink doesn’t want to stick to the surface of the stamp. There are several ways to condition your stamps to make sure you get the best image possible.