Choosing the right printmaking ink can make the difference between vibrant, crisp prints and dull, uneven results. Whether you’re carving blocks, silkscreening tees, or experimenting with mixed media, the ink you select affects coverage, washability, and overall finish. After extensive research, hands-on testing across various surfaces, and analysis of expert and user feedback, we’ve identified the top printmaking inks available today.
Our Testing Approach
- We trialed each ink on wood, linoleum, fabric, and paper to evaluate coverage, opacity, and drying time.
- Prints were subjected to wash tests (for fabric inks) and rub tests (for block inks) to assess durability.
- We consulted professional printmakers and amateur artists for real-world feedback.
- Non-toxicity, ease of cleanup, and value per ounce were factored into final rankings.
Block Print Ink Black
Speedball’s black fabric block printing ink delivers bold, opaque coverage on both fabric and paper. Its water-miscible, non-toxic formula requires no heat setting and cleans up easily, making it perfect for beginners and studios alike.
- Excellent opacity: Deep, saturated black that prints crisply on cotton, linen, and paper.
- User-friendly: No heat set needed; air dries overnight for permanent results.
- Safe and clean: ACMI AP certified non-toxic formula; cleans up with soap and water.
- Compact size (2.5 oz) ideal for casual projects or trial runs.
Premium 6-Color Ink Set
This six-color water-soluble block printing ink set offers professional-grade vibrancy and permanence on both fabric and paper. With quick cleanup and ACMI AP non-toxic certification, it’s perfect for classrooms, workshops, and advanced printmakers.
- Versatile palette: Six bold, opaque colors for rich, multi-tonal prints.
- No heat set required: Air dries overnight for lasting textile and paper art.
- Easy workflow: Water-soluble formula cleans up instantly with soap and water.
- Certified safe: Conforms to ASTM D-4236; great for group settings and educational use.
8oz Satin Block Ink
Speedball’s 8 fl oz water-soluble block printing ink offers a satiny finish and consistent workability. Its superior tack delivers even coverage on linoleum, wood, and soft blocks, making it a standout for serious printmakers.
- Rich satin finish: Dries to a smooth, low-profile sheen.
- Reliable tack: Ensures uniform layer thickness and detail retention.
- Broad compatibility: Ideal for linoleum, Speedy-Carve, wood, and polyfoam blocks.
- Easy cleanup: Soap and water remove residue instantly.
White Screen Print Ink
Speedball’s white fabric screen printing ink delivers a super-soft hand and permanent finish on t-shirts and textiles. Its high-opacity formula works on cotton, polyester, and blends, delivering pristine white coverage every time.
- Ultra-soft finish: Retains fabric softness after heat cure.
- Durable permanence: Proper heat set yields wash-fast prints.
- Wide fabric range: Works on cotton, synthetics, and mixed blends.
- Certified safe: AP seal; soap-and-water cleanup.
Comparative Overview
| Product | Volume | Type | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Block Print Ink Black | 2.5 oz | Water-miscible block ink | Beginners & small runs | $9.99 |
| Premium 6-Color Ink Set | 1.25 oz x6 | Water-miscible block ink | Classrooms & pros | $29.77 |
| 8oz Satin Block Ink | 8 fl oz | Water-soluble block ink | Detailed block work | $15.49 |
| White Screen Print Ink | 8 oz | Fabric screen ink | T-shirts & textiles | $12.99 |
Top Overall: Premium 6-Color Ink Set for unmatched vibrancy and versatility.
Alternatives: For tight budgets, the 2.5 oz Black Ink excels; for fabric-focused printmakers, the White Screen Ink shines.
Final Recommendation
After rigorous testing on wood blocks, textiles, and paper, the Speedball Premium 6-Color Ink Set stands out as the best overall choice for its rich palette, ease of use, and non-toxic safety. If you’re starting out or working on smaller projects, the Block Print Ink Black offers unbeatable value. Fabric-focused creators will appreciate the White Screen Print Ink for its soft hand and crisp coverage, while serious block artists will find the 8oz Satin Block Ink an excellent balance of quality and quantity.
Our selections are grounded in hands-on trials, expert input, and user feedback—ensuring you get reliable performance and vibrant results for every printmaking project.