Screen printing is a popular method of printing designs onto fabrics, paper, and other materials. It involves using a stencil, known as a screen, to apply ink onto the surface. One of the essential components of the process is the screen printing paint. This type of paint is specially formulated to adhere to the materials and produce vibrant, long-lasting prints.
When shopping for the best screen printing paint, it's crucial to consider several factors. Firstly, you need to think about the type of material you'll be printing on, as some paints work better on certain fabrics or papers than others. Additionally, you'll want to consider the opacity and viscosity of the paint, as well as its drying time and durability.
The right screen printing paint can make all the difference in the quality and longevity of your prints. In this article, we'll explore the top options on the market and help you choose the best one for your needs.
Best Screen Printing Paints
If you are into screen printing, you know that the quality of the paint you use can make or break your project. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That's why we have compiled a list of the best screen printing paints on the market. Whether you are a beginner or a pro, these paints will help you achieve the results you desire.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set
If you're looking for a versatile and easy-to-use fabric screen printing ink, then the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes six vibrant colors that can be mixed together to create custom colors for your project.
- The ink is water-based, making it easy to work with and clean up.
- The ink is permanent after heat setting, ensuring that your designs will last longer than other methods.
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 dry too quickly for some users, requiring them to work quickly.
If you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is a great choice for your next project. The ink is easy to mix and apply, and it delivers consistent results every time. Plus, it's safe and non-toxic, making it suitable for use in the studio or classroom.
One of the standout features of this ink is its vibrancy. The set includes six must-have colors that can be used as-is or mixed together to create a gamut of custom colors. The ink is also water-based, which means that it's easy to work with and clean up. Unlike other inks that can be messy and difficult to work with, this ink applies easily and delivers smooth, uniform coverage with no clumps.
Another great feature of this ink is its durability. The ink is permanent after heat setting, which means that your designs will last longer than other methods. This makes it ideal for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, canvas, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. It also works great on paper and cardboard.
While there are many things to love about this ink, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. For example, the ink is not suitable for use on nylon, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, some customers have reported issues with leaking or damaged containers during shipping. Finally, the ink may dry too quickly for some users, requiring them to work quickly.
Overall, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a versatile and easy-to-use fabric screen printing ink. It's a reliable, high-quality product that delivers consistent results every time.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, White for T-Shirt and Silkscreen Printmaking
If you're looking for a reliable screen printing paint for your fabric projects, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option.
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
- May take some practice to get the hang of using it properly.
- Some users have reported issues with the ink bleeding or fading after washing.
- Only recommended for use on light colored fabrics.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a versatile and easy-to-use paint that delivers excellent results on fabric, paper, and cardboard. Its vibrant colors and consistent workability make it a favorite among artists and printmakers. Additionally, it is safe for use in the studio or classroom and cleans up easily with soap and water.
However, it may take some practice to get the hang of using the ink properly, and some users have reported issues with bleeding or fading after washing. Also, it is only recommended for use on light colored fabrics. Overall, if you're looking for a reliable screen printing paint for your fabric projects, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking for high-quality screen printing ink that offers excellent coverage and long-lasting results, the Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink is a great option.
Pros
- Achieve bold prints with high opacity ink
- Provides exceptional coverage for vivid and crisp results
- Water-based ink ensures smooth and easy-flow consistency
Cons
- May require watered down white ink for optimal application
- Some reviewers reported issues with dried-out ink
- Limited color options available
This value pack includes two bottles of 8 ounces each, making it suitable for small to large-size projects. The foil seal can be easily opened with scissors or a cutter for added convenience.
The Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink is formulated to provide exceptional coverage, ensuring vivid and crisp results whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner. The ink is also designed to provide excellent durability once heat set, creating permanent eye-popping prints on a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, canvas, linen, cotton blends, and many more!
This water-based ink ensures smooth and easy-flow consistency, ensuring flawless prints every time. Cleaning up the silkscreen ink is also a breeze with just soap and water. Plus, you can print your designs worry-free with no harsh smell, as this printmaking ink for textiles conforms to ASTM D-4236.
Overall, if you're looking for high-quality screen printing ink that offers excellent coverage and long-lasting results, the Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink is a great option to consider.
Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Black
If you're looking for professional-quality screen printing ink, Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Pros
- Offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time.
- Unrivaled working time allows artists the ability to print without worry.
- Safe for the studio or classroom, as it carries the AP Seal and has easy soap and water cleanup.
Cons
- Not recommended for use on fabrics.
- May wear off after first wash on some surfaces.
- Some users have reported difficulty with achieving decent coverage on certain materials.
This black 8 oz. ink is water-based and ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard. It's easy to use and clean up, and has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from over 1,700 customers.
If you're looking for a reliable and high-quality screen printing ink, Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set
If you're looking for vibrant colors to add to your next print project, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 4 high visibility colors recommended by artists: Hot Pink, Lime Green, Orange, and Blue inks.
- The water-based ink is easy to work with and delivers smooth, uniform coverage with no clumps, making it ideal for beginners and pros alike.
- The ink is permanent after heat set, providing more long-lasting durability than vinyl iron-on, plastisol, or chalk paint.
Cons
- The fluorescent colors may not show up as expected on dark fabrics.
- The blue ink may not blend well with the other colors in the set.
- Some users reported that the ink washed out after the first wash.
This ink set is safe and non-toxic, making it ideal for use in the studio and classroom. It can be used on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, canvas, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. The ink is also suitable for printing on paper and cardboard.
Overall, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is a good choice for those looking for a set of vibrant colors that are easy to work with and provide long-lasting results.
Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking for high-quality, water-based screen printing ink, Creative Nation's 2-pack black fabric ink is worth considering.
Pros
- Achieve bold prints with high opacity ink
- Long-lasting results on a variety of fabrics
- Water-based and non-toxic
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the white ink being thicker and less spreadable than the black ink
- One user received a cracked and dried out bottle of white ink
- Some users found the ink difficult to clean up
This ink is designed to provide exceptional coverage, ensuring vivid and crisp results. It is formulated to be long-lasting and permanent on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, canvas, linen, and cotton blends. Additionally, it is water-based and non-toxic, making it a great choice for those who are environmentally conscious.
However, some users reported issues with the white ink being thicker and less spreadable than the black ink. One user even received a cracked and dried out bottle of white ink. Additionally, some users found the ink difficult to clean up.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality, water-based screen printing ink, Creative Nation's 2-pack black fabric ink is a solid choice.
Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink set, Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Create vibrant and soft prints that feel amazing to the touch.
- Made to last, even after multiple washes.
- Perfect for all levels of expertise.
Cons
- May be too thin for some users.
- Some users have reported issues with tacking for block printing.
- The color may not match the description for some users.
Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink set includes five 3.38 fl. oz tubes of water-soluble ink in Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Buff Titanium White, and Carbon Black. This ink set is perfect for screen printing, block printing, linocut, and linoleum ink projects. It is easy to use and brings your ideas to life.
The ink is made to last, even after multiple washes. You'll enjoy vibrant, fade-resistant colors that stay looking amazing. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, this screen and block printing clothing paint is perfect for all levels. You'll love how easy it is to use and how it brings your ideas to life.
However, some users have reported that the paint is too thin, even if they try to add five layers. Additionally, some users have reported issues with tacking for block printing, despite the title/description. The color may also not match the description for some users.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink set, Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option to consider. It creates vibrant and soft prints that feel amazing to the touch and is made to last.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set
If you're looking for a versatile and wash-fast screen printing ink set, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set might be just what you need.
Pros
- The pearlescent colors are perfect for adding stunning, iridescent effects to prints.
- The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
- All colors carry the AP Seal and are easy to clean up with soap and water.
Cons
- The Raspberry color looks more pink than red.
- The white ink is a bit thicker than the other colors.
- The jars might not be properly sealed during shipping.
This set of six 4oz jars includes opaque fabric screen printing inks 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. They offer greater opacity without sacrificing any workability or softness of the fabric, making them ideal for use on light or dark colored fabrics.
The Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set is wash-fast (when properly heat set), non-flammable, and contains no solvents or offensive odor. The pearlescent colors are perfect for adding stunning, iridescent effects to prints on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured.
While the Raspberry color looks more pink than red and the white ink is a bit thicker than the other colors, these inks are easy to clean up with soap and water and all colors carry the AP Seal. However, some customers have reported that the jars might not be properly sealed during shipping, causing some leakage.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink for your fabric printing projects, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is an excellent choice. It's easy to work with, produces vibrant colors, and offers excellent coverage.
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
- Only works best on light-colored fabrics
- May require a bit of practice to get the right consistency
- May dry out quickly if not stored properly
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is an excellent choice for those who are new to screen printing. It's easy to use, and the results are always consistent. The ink is also ideal for printing on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics.
The ink produces a super soft-hand on fabric, which means the print feels soft to the touch. It's also permanent once properly heat set/cured, ensuring your prints will last for a long time.
One of the best things about Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is that it's safe for the studio or classroom. All colors carry the AP Seal, and cleanup is easy with just soap and water.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that offers excellent coverage, vibrant colors, and consistent workability, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is an excellent choice.
Speedball Permanent Acrylic Screen Printing Ink Set
If you're looking for professional quality screen printing inks, the Speedball Permanent Acrylic Screen Printing Ink Set is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The set includes four must-have colors for your next print project - Black, Process Yellow, Process Cyan, and Process Magenta.
- The inks offer vibrant easy mixing colors that can be used as-is or mixed together to create a gamut of custom colors.
- The ink has excellent working properties, offering artists vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time.
Cons
- The ink is water-based and acrylic, which makes it ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard, but not recommended for use on fabrics.
- The ink has a long open time, which may not be suitable for artists who prefer quicker drying inks.
- The set includes only 4oz of each color, which may not be enough for larger print projects.
The Speedball Permanent Acrylic Screen Printing Ink Set is proudly manufactured in Statesville, NC, and offers artists the ability to print without worry due to its unrivaled working time. The ink is non-flammable, has no solvent, and has no offensive smell, making it easy to clean up with water.
If you're looking for a professional quality screen printing ink set that offers opacity, brilliance, flexibility, and permanence of oil-based inks, the Speedball Permanent Acrylic Screen Printing Ink Set is an excellent choice for signs, posters, and prints.
Caydo Screen Printing Kit
If you're looking for a complete screen printing kit, the Caydo Screen Printing Kit is worth considering.
Pros
- The kit includes three different sizes of screen printing frames and squeegees, making it versatile for various printing needs.
- The fabric screen printing ink included in the kit works well on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton and linen.
- The inkjet transparency film is waterproof and can help transfer your designs accurately.
Cons
- Some customers reported missing parts and instructions in their packages.
- The kit may not be suitable for beginners as it does not include emulsion.
- The quality of the included tools may not be the best.
The Caydo Screen Printing Kit is a comprehensive package that includes everything you need to get started with screen printing. The three different sizes of frames and squeegees make it versatile for various printing needs, and the fabric screen printing ink works well on different types of fabrics. The waterproof inkjet transparency film is also a nice addition, making it easier to transfer your designs.
However, some customers reported missing parts and instructions in their packages, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the kit does not include emulsion, which may not make it the best option for beginners. The quality of the included tools may also not be the best, but they should be sufficient for occasional use.
Overall, if you're looking for a complete screen printing kit that is versatile and includes everything you need to get started, the Caydo Screen Printing Kit is worth considering.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Opaque Silver, Iridescent, for T-Shirt and Silkscreen Printmaking
If you're looking for a screen printing ink that can give your prints a stunning, iridescent effect, then the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The ink can be used on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics, as well as paper and cardboard.
- The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured, ensuring long-lasting results.
- All colors carry the AP Seal, making them safe for use in the studio or classroom, and they are easy to clean up with soap and water.
Cons
- The ink may require multiple passes to achieve the desired level of opacity on darker fabrics.
- The product may be costly to import in certain regions.
- Some users may prefer other high-end products for creating art projects.
This opaque silver, iridescent ink is perfect for adding shimmering colors to your prints, and it works great on light or dark colored fabrics. The ink is also easy to use, whether you're screen printing or painting on with a brush.
Overall, if you're looking for a reliable fabric screen printing ink that can give your prints a beautiful, iridescent effect, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Speedball Professional Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 32-Ounce, Poster Black
If you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that offers great coverage and consistent workability, Speedball Professional Acrylic Screen Printing Ink might be the right choice for you. This water-based, non-toxic acrylic ink is designed to deliver a deep, rich Poster Black finish that resists scuffing.
Pros
- Professional quality screen printing ink that resists scuffing
- Offers great coverage and consistent workability every time
- Unrivaled working time allows artists the ability to print without worry
Cons
- Not recommended for use on fabrics
- Can be difficult to clean up if it dries on the screen
- Some users report issues with packaging and shipping
Speedball Professional Acrylic Screen Printing Ink is ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard, making it a versatile choice for artists and designers. It's also safe for use in the studio or classroom, carrying the AP Seal and cleaning up easily with soap and water.
If you're new to screen printing, there may be a learning curve to using water-based inks like Speedball Professional Acrylic Screen Printing Ink. However, with a little practice and patience, you'll likely be able to achieve great results with this product.
Overall, if you're looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that offers great coverage and consistent workability, Speedball Professional Acrylic Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of its limitations when it comes to fabric printing and potential packaging issues.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best screen printing paint, there are a few things you should consider to ensure that you get the right product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Type of Ink
There are different types of screen printing ink available, and the one you choose will depend on the material you are printing on and the effect you want to achieve. Here are some of the most common types of inks:
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Plastisol Ink: This is a popular choice for printing on fabrics, especially t-shirts. It is durable, opaque, and produces bright colors.
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Water-Based Ink: This type of ink is ideal for printing on light-colored fabrics. It has a soft feel and produces vibrant colors.
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Discharge Ink: This ink is used to create a vintage look on dark-colored fabrics. It removes the dye from the fabric, leaving a faded design.
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Metallic Ink: This type of ink contains metallic particles that produce a shiny, reflective effect.
Color Range
The color range of the ink is another important factor to consider. Some inks come in a limited range of colors, while others offer a wide variety of shades. If you need to print a specific color, make sure the ink you choose has that color available.
Opacity and Coverage
The opacity and coverage of the ink refer to how well it covers the material you are printing on. If you are printing on dark fabrics, you will need an ink with high opacity to ensure that the design is visible. Similarly, if you are printing on a textured surface, you will need an ink with good coverage to ensure that the design is even.
Curing
Curing is the process of heating the ink to make it adhere to the fabric. Different types of inks require different curing methods, so make sure you choose an ink that can be cured using the equipment you have available.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best screen printing ink for your project. Make sure to read the product specifications carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between water-based and plastisol screen printing inks?
Water-based inks are more eco-friendly and produce a softer hand feel on the fabric. They are ideal for printing on lighter colored fabrics and are easier to clean up. Plastisol inks, on the other hand, are more durable and produce brighter colors. They are recommended for printing on darker fabrics and are more difficult to clean up.
How does fabric paint compare to screen printing ink for textile applications?
Fabric paint is a good alternative to screen printing ink for small-scale projects. It is easy to use and does not require any special equipment. However, it is not as durable as screen printing ink and may crack or fade over time.
Which type of screen printing ink is recommended for high-volume t-shirt printing?
Plastisol ink is the best option for high-volume t-shirt printing. It is durable and produces vibrant colors that last a long time. It is also easy to work with and can be used on a variety of fabrics.
What screen printing paint is best suited for beginners to use?
Water-based ink is recommended for beginners to use. It is easier to work with and does not require as much equipment as plastisol ink. It also produces a softer hand feel on the fabric.
How do you choose the right screen printing paint for different fabric materials?
When choosing a screen printing ink, it is important to consider the type of fabric you will be printing on. For example, water-based ink is best suited for lighter colored fabrics, while plastisol ink is better for darker fabrics. It is also important to consider the durability of the ink and the type of printing method you will be using.
What should be considered when selecting a durable screen printing ink for cotton garments?
When selecting a durable screen printing ink for cotton garments, it is important to consider the type of ink and the printing method. Plastisol ink is the most durable option and is recommended for cotton garments. It is also important to properly cure the ink to ensure maximum durability.
