Screen printing is a popular method for creating high-quality prints on a variety of surfaces, including fabric, paper, and plastic. To achieve the best results, it’s essential to use the right type of screen printing paint. The best screen printing paint will provide vibrant colors, excellent coverage, and durability.
When choosing the best screen printing paint, there are several factors to consider. One of the most critical factors is the type of surface you’ll be printing on. Different paints are designed for use on different materials, such as cotton, polyester, or nylon. It’s important to choose a paint that is compatible with the material you’ll be printing on to ensure that you achieve the best results.
Another factor to consider is the type of ink you’ll be using. Water-based inks are a popular choice because they’re easy to clean up and don’t require harsh chemicals. However, they may not be as durable as other types of inks, such as plastisol. Plastisol inks are thicker and more opaque, making them ideal for printing on dark fabrics.
When choosing the best screen printing paint, it’s also important to consider the drying time and curing process. Some paints require heat curing, while others air dry. Heat curing can be more time-consuming, but it ensures that the ink will be more durable and long-lasting.
Overall, the best screen printing paint will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors such as the type of surface you’ll be printing on, the type of ink you’ll be using, and the drying and curing process, you can choose a paint that will provide the best results for your project.
Best Screen Printing Paints
If you are looking for the best screen printing paint for your next project, you have come to the right place. Whether you are a professional screen printer or a beginner, the right paint can make all the difference in the quality of your prints. We have researched and tested a variety of screen printing paints to bring you the top options on the market. Read on to discover the best screen printing paints available for purchase on Amazon.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set
Looking for a fabric screen printing ink starter set for your next print project? The Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set might be just what you need.
Pros
- Vibrant and easy mixing colors
- Water-based ink for easy workability and smooth coverage
- Permanent after heat set
Cons
- Not for use on nylon
- Some jars may arrive not fully sealed
- Shipping may cause leaks
This fabric screen printing ink starter set includes 6, 4-ounce jars of black, red, blue, white, green, and yellow fabric screen-printing ink. These inks are ideal for use on cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetic fibers, as well as paper or cardboard. However, they are not recommended for use on nylon.
The inks can be screen printed or painted on with a brush and clean up easily with water. When properly heat-set, the inks are wash fast and more durable than a vinyl iron-on, plastisol, or chalk paint.
All colors carry the AP Seal, tested to be safe and non-toxic by the Arts & Creative Materials Institute.
Made in the USA, this fabric screen printing ink starter set is a reliable choice for beginners and pros alike. Give your next print project a pop of color with the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Starter Set.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink
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
- Produces a super soft-hand on fabric and is permanent once properly heat set/cured
Cons
- Requires heat setting/curing to become permanent
- Some users have reported issues with the ink drying too quickly on the screen
- May not work as well on dark colored fabrics
This ink is safe for use in the studio or classroom, and all colors carry the AP Seal. It’s easy to clean up with soap and water, making it a convenient choice for artists and hobbyists alike.
If you’re looking for a screen printing paint that offers excellent working properties, works on a variety of surfaces, and produces permanent results on fabric, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Black
If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality screen printing ink, Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink in black is a great option.
Pros
- The ink offers excellent working properties, providing artists with vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time.
- With unrivaled working time, artists can print without worry, making it easy to create stunning prints.
- The ink is water-based and ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard, making it versatile and perfect for a variety of projects.
Cons
- While this ink is perfect for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard, it’s not recommended for use on fabrics, so it may not be the best choice if you’re looking to create fabric prints.
- Some users have reported that the ink wears off after the first wash, so it may not be the most durable option for long-lasting prints.
- The ink is only available in black, so if you’re looking for a wider range of colors, you may need to consider other options.
If you’re looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that offers excellent working properties and vibrant colors, Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink in black is a great choice. With its water-based formula, it’s easy to clean up, making it safe for use in the studio or classroom. While it’s not recommended for use on fabrics, it’s perfect for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard, making it a versatile option for a variety of projects.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality screen printing ink, Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink in black is definitely worth considering.
Screen Print Direct Rapid Cure® Screen Printing Ink Green (Pint – 16oz.)
If you’re looking for a versatile screen printing ink that cures quickly and yields vibrant colors, Screen Print Direct Rapid Cure® Screen Printing Ink Green is a great option.
Pros
- Lightning-fast cure time
- Low bleed and versatile
- Bold, vibrant, and highly opaque color
Cons
- May require extra cleaning effort
- Some users report issues with ink consistency
- Price may be a bit high for some budgets
This screen printing ink offers a rapid cure time, allowing you to increase your production speeds without sacrificing quality. It can cure at temperatures as low as 270°F, making it easier to use than many other plastisol inks. It also has a much longer shelf life than average, lasting over 12 months.
In addition to its quick cure time, this ink is low bleed and very versatile. It works well on a variety of textiles, including cotton and polyester blends. It can also be used for plastisol heat transfers and cold peel transfer. You can choose your favorite fabric screen printing method and create with confidence.
This fabric screen printing ink yields a bold, vibrant, and highly opaque color with a short body, making it easy to work with on your screen printing press. You can layer your inks with confidence knowing you are using the best in printing ink. With tons of options, from black screen printing ink to glitter inks, you have many colors to choose from.
All of Screen Print Direct’s silkscreen ink is made in the USA and hand-scooped by their finest. It’s non-phthalate, non-toxic, and CPSIA compliant. If you’re looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that offers fast curing times and vibrant colors, Screen Print Direct Rapid Cure® Screen Printing Ink Green is a great option.
Speedball Flex Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set
If you’re looking for a high-performing water-based ink that delivers vibrant colors on both light and dark garments, then Speedball Flex Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The advanced water-based ink flexes across multiple fabric types, delivering rich, opaque coverage.
- It works across a myriad of fabric blends, maintaining a soft hand.
- The ink produces bold, vibrant colors on light and dark garments, making it ideal for a wide range of projects.
Cons
- The ink dries almost instantly on the screen after the first pass, which can be a challenge for beginners.
- It does not cover well and may crack, especially if not heat-set properly.
- The ink may not be suitable for all types of fabric.
If you’re an experienced screen printer looking for a high-quality ink that delivers impressive results, then Speedball Flex Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is a solid choice. However, if you’re a beginner, keep in mind that this ink may require some practice to master. Overall, the Speedball Flex Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is a great option for those looking for a water-based ink that delivers bold, vibrant colors on a variety of fabric types.
Screen Printing Ink Set (6 Color, 8 oz.) – Ecotex® Water Based Fabric Ink, Silk Screen Ink, Ink for Shirt Printing – Screen Printing Supplies for Screen Printing Kit, Includes Discharge Activator 6 Color Primary Water Based Kit – 8 oz Inks
If you’re looking for a versatile and eco-friendly screen printing ink set, Screen Printing Ink Set (6 Color, 8 oz.) – Ecotex® Water Based Fabric Ink is an excellent choice. The ink set comes with six ready-to-use colors that can print directly on your silk screen. The colors are bright, crisp, and opaque, making your prints pop and helping your brand stand out from the rest.
Pros
- The ink set is eco-friendly and vegan, making it safe to use and environmentally sound.
- The colors are bright, crisp, and opaque, making your prints pop and helping your brand stand out from the rest.
- The ink set is versatile and can be used on various fabrics, canvas, garments, and textiles.
Cons
- The ink set comes in only six colors, limiting your color options.
- The ink set is water-based, making it prone to bleeding on some fabrics.
- The ink set may require multiple coats for darker fabrics.
This ink set is perfect for professional screen printers and artists looking to create high-quality prints that are safe for the environment. The ink set is versatile and can be used on various fabrics, canvas, garments, and textiles. You can create endless designs with the six ready-to-use colors that are bright, crisp, and opaque.
If you’re looking to define your brand and make your prints pop, this ink set is an excellent choice. The bright and bold colors will help your brand stand out from the rest. The ink set is also eco-friendly and vegan, making it safe to use and environmentally sound.
However, the ink set comes in only six colors, limiting your color options. The ink set is water-based, making it prone to bleeding on some fabrics. You may also need to apply multiple coats for darker fabrics.
Overall, Screen Printing Ink Set (6 Color, 8 oz.) – Ecotex® Water Based Fabric Ink is an excellent choice for screen printing enthusiasts looking for a versatile and eco-friendly ink set.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality screen printing ink, 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 recommended for nonporous fabrics such as nylon
- May require additional curing time for some fabrics
- Some users have reported that the ink can dry out quickly if not stored properly
This fabric screen printing ink is perfect for artists who want to create vibrant designs on a variety of fabrics. It’s easy to work with, produces excellent results, and is safe for use in the studio or classroom.
One of the standout features of Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is its excellent working properties. The ink offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time, which makes it easy to create high-quality prints.
This ink is also incredibly versatile. It’s ideal for printing on a range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. It’s also great for printing on paper and cardboard, which makes it a versatile option for artists who work with a variety of materials.
Another benefit of Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is that it produces a super soft-hand on fabric and is permanent once properly heat set/cured. This means that your designs will look great and last for a long time.
However, there are some downsides to this ink. It’s not recommended for nonporous fabrics such as nylon, so if you’re working with these materials, you’ll need to look for a different ink. Additionally, some users have reported that the ink can dry out quickly if not stored properly, so be sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. Finally, some fabrics may require additional curing time, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality fabric screen printing ink that offers excellent working properties and produces vibrant, long-lasting designs, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink
If you’re in the market for high-quality screen printing ink, Creative Nation’s Black & White Fabric Screen Printing Ink 2-Pack might be just what you need.
Pros
- Achieve bold prints with high opacity ink
- Excellent durability once heat set
- Water-based and non-toxic
Cons
- White ink may require thinning for optimal spreadability
- Ink may dry too quickly, clogging screens
- Some users report issues with ink cracking or rubbing off
This value pack includes two bottles of 8 ounces each, providing savings and convenience for small to large-sized projects. The ink is formulated to provide exceptional coverage, ensuring vivid and crisp results. Plus, it’s designed to provide excellent durability once heat set, so you can create permanent eye-popping prints on a variety of fabrics, such as cotton, canvas, linen, cotton blends, and more.
Transform your projects into true masterpieces with this water-based ink. Its smooth and easy-flow consistency ensures flawless prints every time, and cleaning up is a breeze with just soap and water. Plus, you can print your designs worry-free with no harsh smell, as this printmaking ink conforms to ASTM D-4236.
While some users report issues with the white ink being thicker and requiring thinning for optimal spreadability, and the ink drying too quickly and clogging screens, overall, Creative Nation’s Black & White Fabric Screen Printing Ink 2-Pack is a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality, water-based, and non-toxic screen printing ink.
Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink
If you’re looking for a high-quality screen printing ink, Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Pros
- Achieve bold prints with high opacity ink
- Provides exceptional coverage for vivid and crisp results
- Water-based ink with easy cleanup using soap and water
Cons
- Ink may be too thick, clogging screens
- White ink may need to be watered down for better application
- Some customers received dried out ink
This value pack includes two bottles of 8 ounces of black ink, making it suitable for small to large-size projects. The ink is formulated to provide excellent coverage, ensuring bold and vivid prints. Additionally, the ink is designed to be durable once heat set, ensuring long-lasting, permanent prints on a variety of fabrics.
Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink is also eco-friendly and non-toxic, conforming to ASTM D-4236. Cleaning up the ink is a breeze with just soap and water.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that provides exceptional coverage and is easy to use and clean up, Creative Nation Screen Printing Ink is a great choice.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink, 8-Ounce, Opaque Silver, Iridescent, for T-Shirt and Silkscreen Printmaking
If you’re looking for a high-quality screen printing ink that can work on a variety of fabrics, paper, and cardboard, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a solid choice.
Pros
- The shimmering colors add a stunning iridescent effect to prints.
- The ink can be used on both light and dark colored fabrics without sacrificing workability.
- The permanent results are soft to the touch and won’t wash out when properly heat set.
Cons
- Some users have reported needing multiple passes to achieve the desired opacity on darker fabrics.
- The ink may be costly for international buyers due to import fees.
- The product may not work as well on other surfaces besides fabric, paper, and cardboard.
This ink is ideal for those who want to create unique and eye-catching prints on a variety of surfaces. The shimmering colors add a touch of elegance to any design, and the ink is easy to use and clean up. Overall, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a reliable choice for both beginners and experienced screen printers.
Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use screen printing ink set, Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Create vibrant prints that feel amazing to the touch
- Suitable for all levels of expertise
- Made to last and washable
Cons
- Not suitable for block printing
- Paint is too thin and requires multiple layers
- May stain the screen
Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is perfect for creating unique designs and transforming your fabrics. The water-based formula creates soft and vibrant prints that feel amazing to the touch. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, this screen and block printing clothing paint is perfect for all levels of expertise. You’ll love how easy it is to use and how it brings your ideas to life.
One of the best things about Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is that it’s made to last, even after multiple washes. You’ll enjoy vibrant, fade-resistant colors that stay looking amazing. However, it’s important to note that this ink is not suitable for block printing, despite the title/description. It’s very smooth and more “wet”, probably suitable for screening.
Another downside is that the paint is way too thin, even if you try to add multiple layers. It’s not worth it if you’re looking for a thick, opaque ink. Additionally, some users have reported that the ink may stain the screen.
Overall, Marabu Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option for those looking for a water-based screen printing ink set. It’s perfect for creating vibrant prints that feel amazing to the touch and are made to last. Just keep in mind that it’s not suitable for block printing and may require multiple layers to achieve the desired opacity.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set
If you’re looking for a versatile screen printing ink set, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is a great option.
Pros
- The set includes four vibrant colors that are perfect for printing on a variety of fabrics.
- The water-based ink is easy to work with and delivers smooth, consistent results.
- The ink is permanent after heat setting, making it more durable than other types of printing methods.
Cons
- The fluorescent colors may not show up as brightly on darker fabrics.
- Some users have reported that the blue ink can be difficult to blend with the other colors.
- The ink may require multiple coats for optimal coverage on certain fabrics.
This ink set is a great choice for both beginners and experienced screen printers. The water-based ink is easy to work with and delivers consistent, high-quality results. The set includes four vibrant colors that are perfect for printing on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, canvas, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. Additionally, the ink is permanent after heat setting, making it more durable than other types of printing methods.
One potential downside of this ink set is that the fluorescent colors may not show up as brightly on darker fabrics. Additionally, some users have reported that the blue ink can be difficult to blend with the other colors. Finally, the ink may require multiple coats for optimal coverage on certain fabrics. Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use screen printing ink set, the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink Set is a great choice.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink
If you are looking for a reliable screen printing paint that delivers excellent working properties and permanent results for fabric printing, then Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a great option for you.
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
- For best results, use on light colored fabrics.
- Some users reported issues with the consistency of the ink.
- A bit expensive compared to other screen printing paints.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is a versatile paint that can be used on fabric, paper, or cardboard. It offers excellent working properties, vibrant colors, and great coverage, making it perfect for a variety of printing projects. The inks produce a super soft-hand on fabric and are permanent once properly heat set/cured, ensuring that your prints will last for a long time. Additionally, all colors carry the AP Seal, making them safe for use in the studio or classroom.
One downside of this product is that it works best on light colored fabrics. Some users also reported issues with the consistency of the ink, which can be a bit thick or thin depending on the color. Finally, it is a bit expensive compared to other screen printing paints, which may be a concern for some buyers.
Overall, if you are looking for a high-quality screen printing paint that delivers excellent results, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is definitely worth considering. Just make sure to use it on light colored fabrics and be aware of the consistency issues that some users have reported.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best screen printing paint, there are a few key features to consider. By taking these into account, you can ensure that you choose a product that meets your needs and delivers high-quality results.
Color Selection
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a screen printing paint is the color selection. Look for a product that offers a wide range of colors to choose from, as this will give you more options when it comes to creating your designs. Some brands also offer custom color matching services, which can be helpful if you have specific color requirements.
Ink Type
Another important consideration is the type of ink used in the screen printing paint. There are three main types of ink: water-based, solvent-based, and plastisol. Water-based inks are eco-friendly and easy to clean up, but they may not be as durable as other types. Solvent-based inks are more durable but can be difficult to work with and require special ventilation. Plastisol inks are the most commonly used type and offer excellent durability and opacity, but they require high-temperature curing.
Opacity
Opacity is an important factor to consider when choosing a screen printing paint. Look for a product that offers good coverage and opacity, as this will ensure that your designs are vibrant and easy to see. Some brands also offer high-opacity inks specifically designed for printing on dark fabrics.
Curing Time
The curing time is the amount of time it takes for the ink to fully dry and cure. Look for a product that offers a reasonable curing time, as this will allow you to print multiple layers without smudging or smearing. Some brands also offer quick-curing inks that can be cured at lower temperatures or with a heat gun.
Price
Finally, consider the price of the screen printing paint. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, remember that quality is important. Look for a product that offers a good balance of quality and affordability, and consider the cost per print to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best screen printing paint for your needs and create high-quality prints that will last.
Frequently Asked Questions
What factors should be considered when choosing paint for screen printing on fabric?
When choosing paint for screen printing on fabric, there are several factors to consider. These include the type of fabric you will be printing on, the color and opacity of the ink, the level of detail in your design, and the type of printing method you will be using. It is important to choose a paint that is compatible with your fabric and printing method, and that provides the level of coverage and detail that you need for your design.
Which type of paint is recommended for beginners in screen printing?
For beginners in screen printing, water-based inks are often recommended. These inks are easy to work with, and they are more forgiving than other types of inks when it comes to mistakes. Water-based inks are also more environmentally friendly than other types of inks, as they do not contain harsh chemicals or solvents.
How does screen printing paint differ from regular fabric paint?
Screen printing paint is specifically designed for use in screen printing, and it differs from regular fabric paint in several ways. Screen printing paint is typically thicker and more opaque than regular fabric paint, which allows it to provide better coverage and detail in screen printing. Screen printing paint is also designed to dry quickly and adhere well to fabric, which is important for creating durable, long-lasting prints.
What are the advantages of using plastisol ink over water-based inks in screen printing?
Plastisol ink is a popular choice for screen printing because it provides several advantages over water-based inks. Plastisol ink is more opaque and vibrant than water-based inks, which makes it ideal for printing on dark fabrics. Plastisol ink is also more durable than water-based inks, and it can withstand multiple washes without fading or cracking.
What are the best practices for screen printing on cotton t-shirts?
When screen printing on cotton t-shirts, it is important to pre-treat the fabric to remove any sizing or other chemicals that may interfere with the printing process. It is also important to use the right type of ink for cotton fabric, such as water-based or plastisol ink. Finally, it is important to use the right amount of pressure and ink when printing, to ensure that the print is crisp and clear.
How do user reviews on Reddit compare different screen printing inks?
User reviews on Reddit can be a valuable resource for comparing different screen printing inks. Many users on Reddit share their experiences with different types of inks, and they provide detailed feedback on factors such as opacity, color accuracy, and durability. Reading user reviews can help you make an informed decision when choosing a screen printing ink for your project.
