Water-Based Ink Retarder

dinerfiend · #1 07-10-2012, 04:56 PM

Does anyone have stories to share about working with water-based block printing ink retarder? I'm addicted to the ease of cleanup when it comes to water-based ink and was curious whether anyone had any experiences with using a retarder to slow down drying time. If it's of any help, I'm using Speedball block printing ink and would probably use Speedball retarder unless you folks have some better ideas for a retarder. Thanks, as always!

**bridog** · #2 07-10-2012, 08:37 PM

Speedball retarder will buy you some additional time in terms of slowing the drying time for the ink applied on your brayer or block surface. However from my own personal experience just add a small amount (5 - 10%) as if you add more than this it can make your ink less opaque.

dinerfiend · #3 07-31-2012, 08:50 AM

Thanks for the information! I invested in a small tube of Speedball retarder and will keep in mind the amount that you recommended using.

wmlholt · #4 07-31-2012, 11:09 AM

My suggestion is to get rid of the Speedball inks. Move up to a more professional (in my opinion) brand, such as Daniel Smith water-based inks. I think you will find the difference amazing.

mstuarte · #5 07-31-2012, 08:19 PM

Agree with wmlholt
Daniel Smith water based relief inks have better color and stay open longer. I use them with my gelatin plate printing for both of those reasons. After struggling with Speedball inks drying, I find the extra $$ is well worth it.

(hint: get on DS email list and they will send alerts for special deals like sales and free shipping)

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