How to mix screen printing inks?

Before mixing screen printing inks, it is a good idea to familiarise yourself with the basic principles and tools required for this process. Depending on the type of screen printing ink, it may be necessary to use special thinners or hardeners to achieve the right consistency and properties. Before mixing, it is also a good idea to check that the inks are suitable for the project and meet the durability and finish requirements.

Mixing screen printing inks

Mixing screen printing inks is a key step in the printing process that affects the quality of the final print. In order to obtain the desired colour, the different dyes must be mixed thoroughly according to a specific recipe. However, it is worth bearing in mind that it can be difficult to achieve identical shades on different surfaces due to differences in light absorption and material properties. When mixing screen printing inks, it is worth following a few basic rules. Firstly, mix the inks thoroughly before use to avoid lumps or uneven distribution of pigments. Secondly, it is a good idea to add a small amount of thinner or hardener to get the right consistency of paint - paint that is too thick can make it difficult to transfer the design to the surface, while paint that is too thin can lead to colour smearing.

Testing and correcting the ink mix

Once you have prepared the right screen printing ink mix, it is worth testing on sample surfaces to check that the resulting colour meets expectations and that the ink adheres well to the material. These tests will also allow you to make any adjustments to the mix - if the shade is too light or dark, more pigment can be added, and if the ink is too thick or runny, you can correct the consistency with thinners or hardeners. If there are problems with the paint adhering to the surface, it is worth checking that the right tools are being used and that the surface has been properly prepared - for example, by degreasing or removing dust.