Some folks have asked me, “What is the best ink for gelatin printmaking?” There is no one correct answer to that question. It really depends on:
- your goals and the desired result
- the paper like to use
- the weather – hot, cold, humid?
- how much time you have to let layers dry
- if you have allergies
- how much money you want to spend
Best Inks for Gelatin Printing – depends
I did a little experiment with the three inks that I have. I used the same plate and stencils and compared the results. It was cool in the studio about 65 degrees. I did several prints on thin absorbent paper. Above are 3 prints with several layers of “detailed” impressions.
For this application I like the effect Daniel Smith ink on the right, but I am sensitive to the smell of the inks and they take a very long time to dry.
So my next choice it the Akua Kolor on the left, they still have a rich color, dry faster, but they are thin and sometimes don’t hold a stamped impression and they leave lots of ink on the plate. I have just ordered some Akua Intaglio inks to try out.
For the application above the speedball inks are my least favorite, the one in the middle. However, I do use these inks all the time. They are inexpensive and readily available. They work well for pre-inking stencils. They are super easy to clean up.
Some other options that I have not shown here are golden open acrylic, other acrylic paint, and createx monotype inks.
So to conclude, there is no single answer. Plenty of experimentation and play will give you the best answer for you. Happy Printing
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In the Andy Skinner video he uses something called “Traditions” and “Americana” paints. I had never heard of those until I watched his video. I haven’t really tried too many things yet as I am still getting used to the Open acrylics. The colors are so rich.
you are right. what we get familiar with is the best for us.
If you happen to have acrylics around, Golden makes an open gel you can add, to extend drying time. I do like the open acrylics, had a hard time with the regular ones.
Thanks Judith. I tried adding the open medium to the heavy body acrylics yesterday. It worked. I mixed the paint and medium on the gelli plate just a tiny but at a time. happy printing