If you’re looking for the best ink for screen printing, there are several factors you need to consider before making your purchase. The type of ink you choose can make all the difference in the final outcome of your printed designs.
First and foremost, you want to make sure that the ink you choose is compatible with the type of screen printing process you plan to use. There are different types of ink such as water-based, plastisol, and discharge ink. Each of these has its own unique qualities, so it’s important to choose the right one for your needs.
Another important factor to consider is the quality of the ink. High-quality inks tend to have better color accuracy, vibrancy, and opacity. Additionally, you want to choose an ink that is easy to work with and won’t cause any issues during the printing process.
Are you tired of ink that cracks or fades after just a few washes? Do you want to achieve sharp and vibrant prints that stand the test of time? If so, make sure to check out our top picks for the best ink for screen printing. We’ve done the research so you don’t have to and have rounded up the most reliable and high-quality inks on the market. From water-based to plastisol ink, we’ve got you covered. Take your screen printing game to the next level with our top-rated inks.
10 Best Ink For Screen Printing
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
This product is ideal for screen printing on fabric, particularly on t-shirts. It comes in six opaque colors with a pearlescent finish.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
Ideal for screen printing on fabric, paper, and other surfaces that require bright and durable colors.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
This product is ideal for screen printing onto opaque fabrics with a shiny gold finish.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
This product is ideal for screen printing and can be easily washed out with water.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
This product is ideal for screen printing on various materials, such as fabric and paper.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
This product is ideal for screen printing on various surfaces using water-soluble ink in the color black.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing on various surfaces such as paper, fabric, and cardboard.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing on fabric with its durable and opaque black ink.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing on a variety of materials with a bright white color.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Ideal for screen printing on fabric, delivering fast-drying and opaque results with a soft feel.
|
|
1. Silkscreen Ink Set: 6 Bold Colors For T-Shirts!
Introducing the Pearlescent Screen Printing Inks – the perfect addition to any printing enthusiast's collection. These inks offer a stunning, iridescent effect that gives prints a shimmering quality. They work wonders on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. Furthermore, these inks can also be used on paper and cardboard, making them a versatile choice for any project.
One of the most significant advantages of these inks is their ability to produce permanent results on fabric. Once heat set/cured properly, the inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric, ensuring that the prints remain in pristine condition for a long time to come. Additionally, these inks are safe to use in any studio or classroom setting, as all colors carry the AP Seal. Clean-up is a breeze with simple soap and water.
Another great feature of these inks is their versatility. They can be used on both light and dark-colored fabrics, offering greater opacity without sacrificing workability. This characteristic makes them an ideal choice for printing enthusiasts who want to experiment with different colors and fabrics.
The six-color set includes six 4oz (118ml) jars of Opaque Fabric Screen Printing Ink in Silver, Raspberry, Blue Topaz, Citrine, Pearly White, and Black Pearl. These vibrant colors are sure to make any print stand out and give it a unique, eye-catching quality.
2. Jacquard Versatex Printing Ink Set #2
The Versatex Printing Ink Set #2 is an excellent choice for artists and printmakers who desire high-quality ink for their printing projects. This set includes eight vibrant colors of ink, each jar containing 2.25 fluid ounces, providing ample amount of ink for multiple projects.
Designed to be versatile, this printing ink set can be used with a variety of techniques such as block printing, screen printing, and monotype printing. The ink is easy to work with and can be applied to various surfaces including paper, fabric, and wood.
This ink set is proudly made in the USA, ensuring that you receive a product that meets the highest standards of quality. The ink is formulated to provide a consistent and smooth printing experience, making it an excellent choice for professional and hobbyist artists alike.
In addition, this ink set is highly pigmented, providing rich and vibrant colors that are sure to make your prints stand out. The colors included in this set are cyan, magenta, yellow, black, white, red, blue, and green, allowing you to create a wide range of color combinations.
3. Opaque Fabric Screen Printing Ink Colour: Gold, Size: 8 Oz
Introducing the perfect addition to any printing project – iridescent screen printing inks! These inks are specifically designed to add stunning, shimmering effects to prints, making them perfect for those looking to add an extra touch of elegance to their work.
Not only can these inks be used on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics, they also work great on paper and cardboard. This versatility makes them a must-have for any artist or crafter.
One of the standout features of these inks is their ability to produce permanent results on fabric, while still maintaining a super soft-hand feel. They achieve this by requiring proper heat set/curing after application, ensuring that your designs will last wash after wash.
It's also worth noting that these inks are safe for use in the studio or classroom. All colors carry the AP Seal, meaning they meet strict standards for safety and health. Cleanup is a breeze too, as the inks can be easily washed away with soap and water.
Finally, these inks offer greater opacity without sacrificing workability, making them ideal for use on both light and dark colored fabrics. Say goodbye to worrying about colors bleeding or fading on darker fabrics – these inks have got you covered.
4. Jacquard Professional Screen Print Ink, Water-Soluable, 16oz Jar, Black (117)
The Waterbased Screen Printing Ink is a top-quality product that offers exceptional detail and coverage. This ink is archival and lightfast, which means it is resistant to fading and discoloration over time. It is perfect for printing designs that require high precision and clarity.
The ink is specially formulated to prevent buckling or curling of the paper, ensuring a smooth and even finish. Its semi-gloss finish is durable and scuff-proof, making it ideal for printing on a variety of surfaces. Whether you are printing on paper, fabric, or other materials, this ink will provide a professional-looking result that is sure to impress.
Moreover, this ink is dry-cleanable and extremely washfast on fabric after heat setting. You can rest assured that your designs will remain intact even after multiple washes, without fading or bleeding. This feature makes it a great choice for printing on clothes, bags, and other textile items that need to be washed frequently.
The Waterbased Screen Printing Ink comes in a 16oz jar of black ink, providing ample supply for your printing needs. It is easy to use and produces consistent results, making it a popular choice among professionals and hobbyists alike.
5. Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Dark Red
These screen printing inks are the go-to choice for professional screen printers. They come in a wide range of colors that offer vibrant hues to artists. The ink's excellent working properties ensure that artists can create consistent, high-quality prints every time.
One of the standout features of these inks is their unrivaled working time. Artists can print with ease without worrying about the ink drying too quickly. This property allows them to take their time and create complex designs without the fear of ruining their work.
These water-based, acrylic screen printing inks are perfect for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard. However, they are not recommended for use on fabrics. This makes them ideal for artists who specialize in creating artwork on these materials.
Moreover, these inks are safe for use in the studio or classroom. They carry the AP Seal, which indicates that they have been tested and approved by the Art and Creative Materials Institute. Additionally, they are easy to clean up with soap and water, making them a convenient choice for artists who want to keep their workspace tidy.
6. Jacquard Professional Screen Print Ink, Water-Soluable, 4oz Jar, Black (117)
Introducing the Waterbased Screen Printing Ink, a high-quality ink that is perfect for your printing needs. Whether you are a professional screen printer or a hobbyist, this ink provides archival and lightfast properties that ensure your prints last for years to come.
With superior detail and coverage, the ink creates sharp and vibrant images that stand out from the crowd. The ink won't buckle or curl, providing a smooth and even finish that looks professional and polished. The semi-gloss finish is durable and scuff-proof, ensuring that your prints remain looking great even with frequent use.
The ink is dry-cleanable and extremely washfast on fabric after heat setting, making it ideal for printing on a variety of materials. The 4oz jar of black ink provides a generous amount of ink for your printing needs, allowing you to create multiple prints with ease.
7. Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, White
For professional screen printers seeking high-quality inks, this brand offers a wide range of colors to choose from. These screen printing inks are known for their superior performance, making them the brand of choice for many professionals.
Artists will appreciate the excellent working properties of these inks, which promise vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time they use them. With an unrivaled working time, these inks allow artists to print without worry, giving them the freedom to focus on creating their designs.
These water-based, acrylic screen printing inks are ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard. However, they are not recommended for use on fabrics. The inks are safe for use in studios or classrooms, carrying the AP Seal. Cleanup is easy, requiring only soap and water.
8. Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 128-Ounce, Black
The artist's search for a reliable and versatile ink ends with this product. It boasts excellent working properties that guarantee consistent and vibrant colors, as well as great coverage. This ink is perfect for various surfaces, including fabric, paper, and cardboard.
When it comes to fabric printing, this ink is a go-to choice for artists. It works well on a range of fabrics, such as cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. However, it is not recommended for printing on Nylon. For best results, use on light-colored fabrics. This product produces permanent results that feel soft to the touch once heat set or cured properly.
This ink is safe for use in the studio or classroom, as it carries the AP Seal, which assures its non-toxicity. Cleaning up is a breeze, requiring only soap and water.
Whether you're a professional artist or a beginner, this ink is perfect for all your printing needs. With its excellent properties, you can create vibrant and consistent works of art on various surfaces.
9. Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 128-Ounce, White
These professional quality screen printing inks are the top pick of many experienced screen printers. The inks come in a wide range of colors to suit every artist's needs. With excellent working properties, artists can expect consistent workability, vibrant colors, and great coverage time-after-time.
One of the standout features of these inks is their unrivaled working time. This allows artists to print without worrying about the ink drying out too quickly. The inks are water-based and made with acrylic, making them ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard. However, it is not recommended to use them on fabrics.
These inks are safe for use in studios or classrooms, as they carry the AP Seal. Moreover, they are easy to clean up with just soap and water.
10. Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, White
This high-quality ink set offers excellent working properties for artists seeking vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time. It can be used on a variety of surfaces including fabric, paper, and cardboard, making it a versatile choice for any project.
When it comes to fabric printing, these inks produce permanent results that create a super soft-hand on fabric once properly heat set/cured. They are ideal for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. For best results, it is recommended to use on light-colored fabrics.
Not only does this ink set perform well, but it is also safe for use in the studio or classroom. All colors carry the AP Seal, ensuring that they are non-toxic and adhere to stringent safety standards. Cleanup is a breeze with easy soap and water cleanup.
Best Ink For Screen Printing FAQs
Are there any eco-friendly ink options for screen printing?
Yes, there are eco-friendly ink options available for screen printing. Traditional screen printing inks are oil-based, which can release harmful chemicals and pollutants into the environment. However, eco-friendly inks are made from natural or renewable resources like soy, water, and vegetable oil. These inks are biodegradable, non-toxic, and emit fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
One popular eco-friendly ink option for screen printing is water-based ink. This ink is made from a combination of water and pigments, and it doesn't contain any harmful chemicals or solvents. Water-based ink is easy to clean up and provides vibrant colors that are long-lasting.
Another eco-friendly ink option is discharge ink, which removes the dye from the fabric instead of adding a layer of ink on top. This reduces the amount of ink needed and creates a softer feel on the fabric. Discharge ink is also free of PVC and phthalates, which are harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional inks.
Overall, eco-friendly ink options for screen printing are a great way to reduce your environmental impact and provide safer products for consumers.
How can I choose the best ink for my specific screen printing project?
Choosing the right ink for your screen printing project is crucial to achieving the desired results. There are several factors to consider when selecting the best ink for your specific project.
Firstly, consider the type of material you will be printing on. Different inks are suitable for different materials. For example, water-based inks work well on cotton and other natural fabrics, while plastisol inks are better suited for synthetic materials.
Secondly, consider the color and opacity of the ink. If you want a vibrant color that will stand out, choose a highly opaque ink. On the other hand, if you want the material color to show through the ink, choose a more transparent ink.
Thirdly, consider the printing technique you will be using. Some inks are better suited for manual printing, while others are designed for automatic printing machines.
Lastly, consider the curing process required for the ink. Some inks require high-temperature curing, while others can be cured at lower temperatures.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best ink for your specific screen printing project and achieve the desired results.
What are the advantages of using water-based inks for screen printing?
There are several advantages of using water-based inks for screen printing. Firstly, water-based inks are environmentally friendly as they are free from harmful chemicals and VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that are commonly found in traditional solvent-based inks. Secondly, water-based inks are easier to clean up as they can be washed away with water, unlike solvent-based inks that require harsh chemicals for cleaning. Thirdly, water-based inks produce softer and more vibrant prints as they soak into the fabric, rather than sitting on top of it like solvent-based inks. This also leads to a more durable print that is less likely to crack or fade over time. Lastly, water-based inks can be used on a wider range of fabrics, including natural fibers like cotton and silk, as well as synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon. Overall, using water-based inks for screen printing is a sustainable and effective choice for producing high-quality prints.
What are the best practices for storing and handling screen printing inks?
When it comes to storing and handling screen printing inks, there are several best practices that you should follow to ensure the longevity of your ink and the quality of your prints.
Firstly, it is important to store inks in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause the ink to dry out or change color, which can affect the quality of your prints.
Secondly, you should always keep your inks sealed and airtight to prevent contamination and exposure to air, which can cause the ink to thicken or dry out.
Additionally, it is important to stir your inks before use to ensure that the pigment is evenly distributed and to prevent any settling or separation.
When handling inks, it is also important to wear gloves and follow safety precautions as some inks may contain harmful chemicals.
By following these best practices, you can ensure that your screen printing inks remain in good condition and produce high-quality prints.
What are the differences between plastisol and water-based inks for screen printing?
Plastisol and water-based inks are two popular types of inks used for screen printing. Plastisol ink is a type of ink made from PVC particles suspended in a liquid plasticizer. It is known for its durability and opacity, making it a popular choice for printing on dark fabrics. On the other hand, water-based ink is made from water, pigment, and a binder. It is eco-friendly and produces a softer feel on the fabric, making it a popular choice for printing on light-colored fabrics.
One of the main differences between the two is the way they are cured. Plastisol ink requires high temperatures to cure and bond with the fabric, while water-based ink can be cured at lower temperatures or even air-dried. This makes water-based ink a more eco-friendly option as it requires less energy to cure.
Another difference is the way they feel on the fabric. Plastisol ink creates a thicker layer on the fabric, giving it a more prominent feel, while water-based ink produces a softer and more breathable feel.
In terms of color options, plastisol ink provides more vibrant and opaque color options, while water-based ink produces softer and more muted colors.
Ultimately, the choice between plastisol and water-based ink depends on the specific needs and preferences of the printer and the project.
What are the top-rated inks for screen printing?
When it comes to screen printing, the quality of ink you use plays a vital role in the final outcome of your printed products. There are different types of inks available in the market, but some of the top-rated ones for screen printing are:
1. Plastisol Ink: This is one of the most popular inks for screen printing. It has a thick and durable consistency that works well on different types of fabrics. Plastisol ink is easy to use and produces vibrant colors that are long-lasting.
2. Water-Based Ink: Water-based ink is an eco-friendly option for screen printing. It produces soft and breathable prints that are ideal for printing on light-colored fabrics. Water-based ink also dries quickly and does not require any special equipment to clean up.
3. Discharge Ink: Discharge ink is another popular choice for screen printing. This ink works by removing the dye from the fabric and replacing it with a new color. Discharge ink produces soft and vibrant prints that are ideal for dark-colored fabrics.
4. Hybrid Ink: Hybrid ink is a combination of plastisol and water-based ink. This ink produces soft and durable prints that are easy to work with. Hybrid ink is ideal for printing on different types of fabrics and produces vibrant colors that are long-lasting.
In conclusion, when choosing an ink for screen printing, it is important to consider the type of fabric you will be printing on, the colors you want to use, and the durability of the final product.
What is the best type of ink for printing on dark fabrics?
When it comes to printing on dark fabrics, the best type of ink to use is generally considered to be opaque or pigmented ink. This type of ink is designed to have a higher opacity than traditional dye-based inks, allowing it to better cover the darker fabric and provide a more vibrant and long-lasting print.
There are a variety of different opaque inks available on the market, including plastisol, water-based, and discharge inks. Each has its own unique properties and advantages, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your specific needs. Plastisol ink is often used in screen printing and is known for its durability and ability to produce bright, opaque colors. Water-based ink is a more eco-friendly option, while discharge ink is designed to create a soft, vintage look on dark fabrics.
Ultimately, the best type of ink for printing on dark fabrics will depend on factors such as the specific type of fabric being used, the printing method, and the desired outcome. It's important to do your research and experiment with different types of inks to find the one that works best for your particular project.
Which ink brand offers the best value for money for screen printing?
When it comes to screen printing, choosing the right ink brand is crucial to ensure the quality, durability, and overall performance of your prints. In terms of value for money, there are several ink brands that stand out in the market.
One of the most popular options is Speedball. This brand offers a wide range of inks that are suitable for different types of fabrics and surfaces. Their inks are known for their high-quality pigments, excellent coverage, and fast-drying properties. What sets Speedball apart is their affordability, with prices that are lower than many other brands in the market.
Another excellent option is Union Ink. This brand is well-known for its durability and resistance to fading, cracking, and peeling. Their inks are also easy to use, with excellent adhesion and smooth printing properties. While Union Ink may be slightly more expensive than some other brands, their quality and performance make them a great investment for any screen printing project.
Ultimately, the best value for money will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It is recommended to do your research and try out different ink brands to find the one that works best for your screen printing projects.
Which ink brand provides the most vibrant colors for screen printing?
When it comes to screen printing, there are several ink brands that offer vibrant colors. However, one of the most popular and widely used brands for vibrant colors is Rutland Ink. Rutland Ink is known for its high-quality and long-lasting inks that produce vibrant and eye-catching colors. Their ink is specially formulated to provide excellent coverage and consistency, making it perfect for screen printing on a variety of substrates. Additionally, they offer a wide range of colors, including neon and metallic shades, which can be mixed and matched to create custom hues. Other ink brands that are known for their vibrant colors include International Coatings, Wilflex, and Nazdar. Ultimately, the choice of ink brand depends on various factors such as the type of substrate, printing method, and personal preference. It is recommended to test different ink brands and colors before selecting the best fit for your screen printing project.
Which ink type is the most durable for screen printing?
When it comes to screen printing, durability is an important factor to consider for long-lasting prints. While there are several types of inks available, the most durable ink for screen printing is considered to be plastisol ink. Plastisol ink is a type of ink made from PVC particles that are suspended in a liquid plasticizer. This ink is known for its excellent opacity, vibrant color, and ability to bond well with a variety of fabrics.
Plastisol ink is also highly resistant to fading, cracking, and peeling, which makes it an ideal choice for printing on materials that will undergo frequent washing or heavy use. Another advantage of plastisol ink is that it can be used to print on both light and dark fabrics, making it a versatile option for screen printers.
However, it's worth noting that plastisol ink requires a heat source to cure, which can limit its use on certain materials or in certain printing situations. Additionally, plastisol ink is not considered to be environmentally friendly due to its use of plastic materials. Overall, while there are some limitations to using plastisol ink, it is a durable and reliable choice for many screen printing applications.