TOP 10 PRINTMAKING INKS REVIEWS
Discover the best printmaking inks of 2025. Expert reviews, comparisons, and buying tips to help you choose the perfect printmaking inks for block printing, screen printing, and mixed media art.
Printmaking is a versatile and expressive art form, and the quality of your ink is the single most critical factor determining the success and longevity of your finished pieces. Whether you are a professional artist creating intricate linocuts or a beginner exploring block printing, selecting the right ink ensures vibrant colors, crisp detail, and permanence on your chosen substrate, be it paper or fabric. Cheap or incorrect inks can lead to muddy prints, poor transfer, and cracking over time, frustrating even the most skilled printmaker.
Our comprehensive guide reviews the top printmaking inks available in 2025, focusing on water-soluble, oil-based, and acrylic formulations. We delve into key features like color saturation, drying time, non-toxicity, and ease of cleanup. We’ve analyzed popular brands like Speedball and Nicpro, offering detailed insights into starter sets and professional-grade tubes. By understanding the differences between these products—from the durable, non-toxic attributes of Speedball’s Block Printing Ink sets to the quick-dry versatility of Nicpro's Acrylic Inks—you can make an informed decision and elevate the quality of your artistic output. Find the perfect ink to bring your unique vision to life.
Speedball
$30.99
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Speedball
$29.99
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Speedball Art Products Company
$15.49
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Nicpro
$20.99
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Speedball
$15.49
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Falling in Art
$24.99
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Speedball Art Products Company
$9.99
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Speedball
$12.99
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Speedball
$9.99
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Linocut Kit
$25.99
View on Amazon →The durability of printmaking ink is paramount, especially for fine art or wearable items. Look for inks with high pigment load, which ensures vibrant, opaque colors that won't fade over time (lightfastness). For block printing, the ink must transfer cleanly and resist cracking. Water-soluble oil-based inks, like the Speedball Premium set, offer the vibrancy of oil with the easy cleanup of water, providing a good balance of quality and convenience. For fabric printing (like the Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink), ensure the ink is designed to be heat-set for permanent, wash-fast results.
Consider the ink’s medium: water-based inks are non-toxic and clean up easily, making them perfect for classrooms and beginners. Oil-based inks provide richer colors and longer open working times, but require solvent cleanup. Drying time is also crucial; quick-dry acrylic inks (like Nicpro's set) are great for mixed media, while traditional block printing inks may require longer curing. Always check if the ink is non-toxic (AP certified) for safe use, and confirm its compatibility with your medium—whether it’s paper, fabric, or linoleum blocks.
Printmaking ink prices vary significantly based on volume, brand reputation, and formulation. Starter sets, such as the Speedball 6-Color Water-Soluble Set, offer excellent value for beginners, providing a range of colors without a high initial investment. Larger volumes (like the 8 Fl. oz. Speedball Black Ink) are more economical for artists who produce high-volume prints. While professional-grade inks may have a higher per-ounce cost, their superior lightfastness and pigment density often justify the price for serious artists seeking archival results. Balance your budget with the intended use and required longevity of your prints.
Established brands like Speedball are industry leaders known for consistent quality and reliable performance, particularly in block and screen printing. While printmaking inks don't typically come with a formal 'warranty,' purchasing from reputable manufacturers ensures you receive fresh, properly formulated products. Newer brands like Falling in Art may offer competitive pricing on larger sets. Always check user reviews for consistency in quality and color accuracy. Trusting a well-known brand minimizes the risk of issues like separation, premature drying, or poor pigment density, ensuring a better overall printing experience.
The best inks depend on your technique. For general block printing and easy cleanup, Speedball's Water-Soluble Block Printing Inks (like B000J09PFM) are top-rated. For durability on fabric, Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink is highly recommended. If you require the richness of oil but need water cleanup, the Speedball Premium Water Soluble Oil-Based Ink set (B00881IU8M) is an excellent choice for combining convenience and quality.
First, determine your substrate: paper, fabric, or mixed media. Next, consider cleanup preference: water-soluble inks are easiest. Finally, think about working time: oil-based inks dry slower, allowing more time for complex registration, while acrylic inks dry quickly. Beginners should start with non-toxic, water-soluble options like the Speedball starter sets to minimize setup and cleanup hassle.
For serious artists creating archival, museum-quality work, expensive inks are generally worth the investment. They typically contain higher concentrations of lightfast pigments, resulting in richer colors and prints that resist fading over decades. For hobbyists, students, or temporary projects, mid-range or student-grade inks provide sufficient quality and great value without the premium cost.
Look for non-toxicity (AP certification), which is crucial for safety. Check the ink’s viscosity for proper rolling and transfer—it should be sticky but not overly runny. For fabric, ensure it is heat-settable for wash resistance. For block printing, a smooth, satin finish (like that offered by many Speedball products) generally provides the best professional appearance.
Unopened, high-quality printmaking inks stored in a cool, dark place can last several years. Once opened, water-based inks may start to dry out or separate within a year or two. Oil-based inks last longer but may require the addition of an extender or modifier if they become too stiff. Always check the consistency before use and reseal tubes tightly after each session.
Selecting the correct printmaking ink is the foundation of successful printmaking. The products reviewed here, particularly the reliable and versatile offerings from Speedball, provide excellent options for every skill level and project type, from the easy-to-use water-soluble sets for classrooms to specialized fabric inks for apparel. For beginners and general paper block printing, we highly recommend the Speedball 3470 Water-Soluble Block Printing Ink Starter Set (B000J09PFM) for its quality, ease of cleanup, and high review count. For artists seeking oil-based richness with water cleanup convenience, the Speedball Premium Block Printing Ink Set (B00881IU8M) is the superior choice. Always match your ink type to your printing method and desired permanence. Don't let subpar materials limit your creativity. Invest in quality printmaking inks today to ensure your linocuts, woodcuts, and screen prints possess the vibrancy, detail, and durability they deserve. Click through the links above to purchase your ideal set and start creating stunning, professional-level art.