Screen printing on dark fabrics can be a tricky process, but using the right ink can make all the difference. The best screen printing ink for dark fabric should be opaque and vibrant, allowing designs to stand out and pop.
When choosing a screen printing ink for dark fabric, it's important to consider the type of fabric you'll be printing on. Some inks work better on certain materials than others, and choosing the wrong ink can result in poor adhesion or a washed-out appearance. Additionally, the ink should be able to withstand multiple washings without fading or cracking.
To make the process of finding the best screen printing ink for dark fabric easier, we've tested several options and narrowed down the top choices. Whether you're a professional screen printer or a DIY enthusiast, you'll find an ink that meets your needs.
Best Screen Printing Ink for Dark Fabric
If you're in the market for screen printing ink for dark fabrics, you've come to the right place. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. That's why we've compiled a list of the best screen printing inks for dark fabrics. From vibrant colors to long-lasting durability, these inks will help you achieve professional-looking prints on any dark fabric. So, without further ado, let's dive into the list.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Black for T-Shirt and Silkscreen Printmaking
If you're looking for an easy-to-use screen printing ink for dark fabrics, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time
- Ideal for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics.
- Inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured
Cons
- May take some time to learn how to work with it to avoid flooding your stencils
- Best results are achieved when used on light-colored fabrics
- Some users may prefer a thinner ink for their projects
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a non-flammable, non-toxic ink that cleans up easily with soap and water, making it safe for use in the studio or classroom. All colors carry the AP Seal, ensuring that they are safe for use by artists of all ages.
This ink is perfect for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. It is also great for printing on paper and cardboard. The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
While it may take some time to learn how to work with this ink to avoid flooding your stencils, it offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time. However, it is important to note that best results are achieved when used on light-colored fabrics.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink for dark fabrics that is easy to use and produces excellent results, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set
If you're looking for vibrant colors that really pop, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set might be for you.
Pros
- The set includes four high-visibility colors that are perfect for your next print project.
- The water-based ink is easily workable and applies smoothly for a consistent print result every time.
- This ink is permanent after heat set, making it more durable than a vinyl iron-on, plastisol, or chalk paint.
Cons
- The colors may not show up as expected on dark fabrics.
- The ink may require an under layer of white when printing on black fabric.
- The fluorescent colors may not be suitable for all projects.
This ink set is perfect for those who want to create bold, eye-catching designs on a variety of fabrics. The water-based ink is easy to work with, making it ideal for beginners and pros alike. The ink is also permanent after heat set, ensuring that your designs will last. However, keep in mind that the colors may not show up as expected on dark fabrics and that an under layer of white may be required when printing on black fabric. Additionally, the fluorescent colors may not be suitable for all projects. Overall, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is a great choice for those looking for vibrant, long-lasting colors.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, Black (4600)
If you're looking for a reliable and versatile ink for your screen printing projects on dark fabrics, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Pros
- Offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time
- Ideal for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. Also works great on paper and cardboard
- Produces permanent results with a super soft-hand on fabric once properly heat set/cured
Cons
- Some users reported that the ink can be a bit thick, which may require some thinning for best results
- The black ink may appear more like a dark gray on some fabrics
- The jar packaging may not be as convenient as squeeze bottles for some users
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a popular choice among artists and crafters for its excellent working properties and versatility. The ink offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time, making it easy to achieve professional-looking results. It can be used on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics, as well as on paper and cardboard. The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured, ensuring that your designs will last for a long time.
One potential downside of this ink is that it can be a bit thick, which may require some thinning for best results. Additionally, the black ink may appear more like a dark gray on some fabrics, which may not be ideal for certain projects. Finally, some users may prefer squeeze bottles over jar packaging for convenience and ease of use.
Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and versatile ink for your screen printing projects on dark fabrics, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you are in search of a versatile and easy-to-use screen printing ink for dark fabrics, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is worth considering.
Pros
- The shimmering colors of this ink are perfect for adding stunning, iridescent effects to prints.
- You can use it on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. It also works great on paper and cardboard.
- The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
Cons
- You may need to do multiple passes to whiten it on darker colors as it looks more of a silvery color with only one pass.
- The cost of importing this product to some countries may be high.
- It may require a heat press to set the ink, and it has not been tested for washing durability.
This Speedball screen printing ink is non-flammable, non-toxic, and safe for use in the studio or classroom. The ink is easy to clean up with soap and water, and all colors carry the AP Seal. The opaque gold color comes in an 8 oz jar, providing more coverage and smoother workability, making it great for beginners and professionals alike.
Overall, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is an excellent choice for those who want to print on dark fabrics with shimmering colors and a soft-hand finish.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set
If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use fabric screen printing ink, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 6 vibrant and easy-to-mix colors, allowing you to create a wide range of custom colors.
- The ink is water-based, making it easy to work with and delivering smooth, uniform coverage with no clumps.
- When properly heat-set, the ink becomes permanent and wash-fast, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Cons
- The ink is not suitable for use on nylon.
- Some customers have reported issues with leaking or damaged containers during shipping.
- The ink may require several coats to achieve a fully opaque finish on dark fabrics.
This fabric screen printing ink starter set includes 6, 4-ounce jars of black, red, blue, white, green, and yellow fabric screen-printing ink. The ink is ideal for use on cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetic fibers, as well as paper or cardboard. The ink can be screen printed or painted on with a brush and cleans up easily with water.
One of the standout features of this ink is its water-based formula, which makes it easy to work with and delivers consistent results. The ink is also non-flammable, has no offensive smell, and is AP certified, conforming to ASTM D-4236. When properly heat-set, the ink becomes permanent and wash-fast, ensuring that your designs will last.
While this ink is versatile and easy to use, it may require several coats to achieve a fully opaque finish on dark fabrics. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with leaking or damaged containers during shipping, so be sure to inspect your package carefully upon arrival.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality fabric screen printing ink that delivers vibrant colors and long-lasting durability, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is definitely worth considering.
Creative Nation Black & White Fabric Screen Printing Ink 2-Pack
If you're looking for a budget-friendly and eco-friendly option for screen printing on dark fabrics, Creative Nation's Black & White Fabric Screen Printing Ink 2-Pack might be a good fit for you.
Pros
- Achieve bold prints with high opacity ink
- Long-lasting results on a variety of fabrics
- Water-based and non-toxic
Cons
- White ink is thicker and may require watering down for spreadability
- Black ink may dry out quickly, ruining the screen
- Some customers have reported issues with packaging and dried out ink
This value pack comes with two bottles of 8 ounces each, offering savings for small to large-size projects. The ink is formulated to provide exceptional coverage, ensuring vivid and crisp results. Once heat set, the prints are designed to provide excellent durability on a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, canvas, linen, and cotton blends. The ink is water-based and easy to clean up with just soap and water. Plus, the ink is non-toxic and conforms to ASTM D-4236, making it safe for printing designs worry-free.
While the black ink is reported to be smoother and easier to apply, the white ink may require watering down for better spreadability. Some customers have reported issues with the packaging, specifically the foil seal being difficult to open or the ink drying out quickly. However, many customers have praised the quality of the ink and its affordability, making it a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
Overall, if you're looking for an affordable, water-based, and non-toxic option for screen printing on dark fabrics, Creative Nation's Black & White Fabric Screen Printing Ink 2-Pack might be worth considering.
Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink set for dark fabrics, Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Pros
- The water-based formula makes it easy to clean up after printing.
- The ink creates soft, vibrant prints that feel great to the touch.
- This ink is long-lasting and fade-resistant, even after multiple washes.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the ink doesn't work well for block printing.
- The ink may not show up well on certain types of fabric.
- A few users have had trouble getting the ink to print clearly.
Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is perfect for both beginners and experts, and it comes with everything you need to get started. The set includes five 3.38 fl. oz. tubes of ink in Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Buff Titanium White, and Carbon Black.
One of the best things about this ink is how easy it is to work with. It's perfect for screen and block printing, linocut, and linoleum ink projects, and the water-soluble formula makes it easy to clean up after printing.
The prints created with this ink are soft and vibrant, and they feel great to the touch. Plus, the ink is long-lasting and fade-resistant, even after multiple washes.
While some users have reported that the ink doesn't work well for block printing, most find that it's perfect for screen printing. Some users have had trouble getting the ink to print clearly, but this is often due to issues with the printing process rather than the ink itself.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink set for dark fabrics, Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink for dark fabrics, Creative Nation's ink is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Achieve bold prints with high opacity ink, suitable for beginners and professionals alike.
- Provides exceptional coverage, ensuring vivid and crisp results that last.
- Water-based and non-toxic, making it eco-friendly and easy to clean up.
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the white ink being thicker and harder to apply.
- The ink can dry out quickly, potentially ruining screens and limiting the number of prints.
- The packaging may be inconvenient for some users, requiring scissors or a cutter to open the foil seal.
This value pack includes two bottles of 8 ounces each, perfect for small to large-size projects. The ink is formulated to provide excellent durability once heat set, ensuring long-lasting results on a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, canvas, linen, cotton blends, and more.
The water-based ink has a smooth and easy-flow consistency, ensuring flawless prints every time. It's also non-toxic and conforms to ASTM D-4236, making it safe to use and worry-free.
While some users reported issues with the white ink being thicker and harder to apply, the black ink is smooth and has an easier application. However, the ink can dry out quickly, potentially ruining screens and limiting the number of prints. Additionally, some users may find the packaging inconvenient, requiring scissors or a cutter to open the foil seal.
Overall, Creative Nation's Screen Printing Ink is a great option for those looking for a high-quality, water-based ink that provides bold and long-lasting prints on dark fabrics.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Night Glo Original, Glow in The Dark
If you're looking for a screen printing ink that glows in the dark, then the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is worth considering.
Pros
- Offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time.
- Ideal for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. Also works great on paper and cardboard.
- Inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
Cons
- Not suitable for use on nylon.
- The ink is not very opaque, so it's better to use it on a light background color.
- The glow effect doesn't last very long and needs constant UV light to activate.
This water-based and non-toxic ink is safe for use in the studio or classroom, and all colors carry the AP Seal for easy soap and water cleanup. The ink is made with phosphorescent pigment that glows in the dark once charged by light.
Overall, if you're looking for a screen printing ink that will add a fun and unique touch to your designs, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option.
Speedball Opaque Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking to add shimmering colors to your prints, the Speedball Opaque Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice. Here's a rundown of the pros and cons:
Pros
- The pearlescent inks add stunning iridescent effects to prints.
- Ideal for use on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics.
- Permanent results on fabrics once properly heat set/cured.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty getting the ink to cure properly and not flake off.
- Not ideal for printing on dark colors without a white base layer.
- The ink is pricey compared to some other options.
If you're looking for an ink that will add a beautiful shimmer to your prints, the Speedball Opaque Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice. The pearlescent inks are perfect for adding stunning iridescent effects to prints, and they work well on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. Plus, the inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
However, some users have reported difficulty getting the ink to cure properly and not flake off, so it's important to follow the instructions carefully. Additionally, the ink is not ideal for printing on dark colors without a white base layer, which can add an extra step to your printing process. Finally, the ink is pricey compared to some other options, so it may not be the best choice if you're on a tight budget.
Overall, if you're looking for an ink that will add a beautiful shimmer to your prints and don't mind paying a little extra for quality, the Speedball Opaque Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set
If you want to add shimmering colors to your prints, then you should consider the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set. This product is perfect for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics.
Pros
- The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
- All colors carry the AP Seal, making them safe for use in the studio or classroom.
- The inks offer greater opacity without sacrificing any workability, making them ideal for use on light or dark colored fabrics.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with leaking jars during shipping.
- The white ink may be thicker than the other colors, but it is still usable.
- The set could benefit from the inclusion of a true red color.
The Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set includes six 4oz jars of opaque fabric screen printing ink in Silver, Raspberry, Blue Topaz, Citrine, Pearly White, and Black Pearl. These inks can be painted on with a brush or screen printed onto a range of textiles, paper, and cardboard. The inks are wash-fast (when properly heat set), non-flammable, and contain no solvents or offensive odor.
If you're looking for a fabric screen printing ink that offers shimmering colors, greater opacity, and a soft-hand on fabric, then the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is a great option to consider.
Caydo Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 32 Ounce for T-Shirt and Silkscreen Printmaking, White
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option for screen printing ink, the Caydo Fabric Screen Printing Ink might be worth considering.
Pros
- Large volume of 32oz ink provides ample supply for printing multiple items
- Water-resistant and fade-resistant, ensuring durability and longevity of printed items
- Suitable for use on a wide range of materials, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetic fabrics
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with clogging and difficulty removing ink from screens
- The ink may dry out quickly, so it's important to work quickly and clean up immediately
- The jar of ink may not be completely filled, as some users have reported receiving half-full jars
Despite some reported issues with clogging and ink drying out quickly, the Caydo Fabric Screen Printing Ink offers good coverage and durability for a budget-friendly price. If you're just starting out with screen printing and looking for an affordable option, this ink may be worth considering. Just be sure to work quickly and clean up immediately to avoid any issues with drying or clogging.
Jacquard Professional Screen Print Ink, Water-Soluable, 4oz Jar, Super Opaque White (119)
If you're looking for high-quality screen printing ink for dark fabrics, Jacquard Professional Screen Print Ink is worth considering.
Pros
- The water-based ink provides an extended open time in the screen, allowing you ample time to work.
- It's archival and lightfast with superior detail and coverage.
- The ink won't buckle or curl, and the finish is a durable, scuff-proof semi-gloss.
Cons
- The ink is thick, which can make it difficult to work with.
- It may require thinning with water, which can be time-consuming.
- The ink dries quickly, which can make it challenging to clean the screen.
Jacquard Professional Screen Print Ink is specially formulated to work with most surfaces, including fabric, paper, plastic, vinyl, leather, metal, and more. The ink won't wrinkle paper when printing artwork, making it a versatile option for a variety of projects.
For permanence and durability, heat set the ink when using fabrics. The ink is dry-cleanable and extremely washfast on fabric after heat setting. The 4oz jar of Opaque White ink is a great value for the price.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that provides superior detail and coverage, Jacquard Professional Screen Print Ink is a solid choice.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best screen printing ink for dark fabrics, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you make the right decision. Here are some key features to look out for when making your purchase:
1. Color Opacity
The opacity of the ink is a crucial factor to consider when printing on dark fabrics. The more opaque the ink, the better it will show up on dark fabrics. When shopping for screen printing ink, look for products that are specifically designed for printing on dark fabrics and have high opacity levels.
2. Ink Type
There are different types of screen printing inks available in the market, each with its unique properties. Some of the most common types include water-based, plastisol, and discharge inks. Water-based inks are eco-friendly, while plastisol inks are more durable and provide better coverage. Discharge inks work well on dark fabrics but require a specific printing process. Choose the ink type that best suits your needs.
3. Ink Curing
Curing is the process of drying the ink onto the fabric. It is essential to choose an ink that cures well on dark fabrics, as improper curing can result in the ink fading or washing out. Look for inks that cure quickly and thoroughly, and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
4. Ink Compatibility
When choosing a screen printing ink for dark fabrics, ensure that it is compatible with your printing method and equipment. Some inks work better with certain types of screens or printers, so be sure to check the ink's compatibility before making your purchase.
By considering these features, you can choose the best screen printing ink for your dark fabric printing needs. Keep in mind that different inks may have different properties, so it's essential to choose the one that best suits your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of ink provides the best coverage for dark fabrics in screen printing?
When it comes to screen printing on dark fabrics, opaque inks are the best option. These inks are designed to provide maximum coverage and opacity, making them ideal for printing on dark materials. Some popular options include plastisol and water-based inks.
How does plastisol ink perform on dark fabric compared to other inks?
Plastisol ink is a popular choice for screen printing on dark fabrics because of its ability to provide excellent coverage and opacity. It is a thick ink that sits on top of the fabric, creating a vibrant and long-lasting print. While other inks, such as water-based inks, can also be used for dark fabrics, they may not provide the same level of coverage as plastisol.
What factors should be considered when choosing ink for screen printing on cotton materials?
When choosing ink for screen printing on cotton materials, there are several factors to consider. These include the type of cotton being used, the color of the fabric, the desired level of opacity, and the printing technique being used. It is important to choose an ink that is compatible with the fabric and printing technique to ensure a high-quality print.
Are there specific screen printing inks that are recommended for both durability and vibrancy on dark textiles?
Plastisol ink is often recommended for its durability and vibrancy on dark textiles. This ink is designed to withstand repeated washing and wear, making it a great choice for garments that will be worn frequently. Additionally, it provides excellent coverage and opacity, ensuring a vibrant and long-lasting print.
What are the advantages of using water-based inks on dark fabrics?
Water-based inks are a popular choice for screen printing on dark fabrics because they are eco-friendly and provide a soft hand feel. They are also easy to work with and can create a unique, vintage look. However, they may not provide the same level of coverage as plastisol ink, and may not be as durable over time.
How do different screen printing inks affect the feel and breathability of printed dark t-shirts?
The feel and breathability of printed dark t-shirts can be affected by the type of ink used. Plastisol ink is a thick ink that sits on top of the fabric, creating a slightly heavier feel. Water-based inks, on the other hand, are thinner and create a softer, more breathable feel. Ultimately, the choice of ink will depend on the desired look and feel of the final product.
