Ranger Ink
ActiveOverview
Ranger Ink is a craft products manufacturer specializing in inks, stamps, embossing powders, and related art supplies for the DIY and professional crafting markets. The company has built its reputation on innovative product lines including Tim Holtz Distress, Dylusions, Dina Wakley Media, and ICE Resin, which are widely used by crafters, mixed media artists, and hobbyists. Ranger operates as an independent company and maintains a significant presence in the global craft supplies industry through both direct sales and retail distribution.
History
Ranger Industries was founded in 1929 as a manufacturer of commercial ink products for the U.S. banking industry. In 1979, the company pivoted to create the first art stamp pads in vibrant colors, establishing its presence in the craft market. Until 1998, Ranger primarily produced private label products for other stamp manufacturers. Beginning in 1998, the company launched its own branded product lines starting with inks and expanding into embossing powders, resins, and specialty craft materials that became popular worldwide.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Tim Holtz Distress | Mixed media and vintage-effect inks | $4 - $8 per pad |
| Dylusions | Vibrant fluid inks for mixed media | $5 - $10 per bottle |
| Dina Wakley Media | Professional-grade mixed media supplies | $6 - $15 per item |
| ICE Resin | Crystal-clear epoxy resin for jewelry and crafts | $15 - $40 per kit |
| Archival Ink | Permanent, fade-resistant stamping ink | $4 - $7 per pad |
| Liquid Pearls | Dimensional paint with pearl finish | $3 - $6 per bottle |
| Stickles | Glitter glue for dimensional effects | $3 - $5 per bottle |
Manufacturing
Manufacturing details are not specified in available sources. The company appears to operate from its Tinton Falls, New Jersey headquarters, though specific information about in-house production versus outsourcing is not publicly documented.
Notable Products
- Tim Holtz Distress Inks - Signature line of blendable, water-reactive inks designed for mixed media and vintage-effect crafting
- ICE Resin - Two-part epoxy resin system known for clarity and used extensively in jewelry and resin art
- Dylusions Inks - Highly pigmented fluid inks available in an extensive color range for mixed media applications
- Archival Ink - Permanent stamping ink formulated to resist fading and archival deterioration
- Stickles - Dimensional glitter glue product line offering metallic and iridescent finishes
Reputation
Ranger Ink is well-regarded among craft enthusiasts and mixed media artists for product innovation and color quality. The brand has cultivated a loyal following through collaborations with notable designers like Tim Holtz and Dina Wakley, which have elevated its market position. Products are generally praised for performance and reliability, though pricing is positioned at the premium end of the craft supplies market. The company maintains strong industry presence through both direct consumer sales and retail partnerships.