Newbies to the printing arena are quick to overlook the importance (or the existence) of white ink, assuming little difference will be seen printing on white paper versus printing over white ink. If you’re one of the many that think white ink is superfluous, read on my friend, because you’re seriously missing out…
White Ink – What Gives?
With the addition of white ink, numerous benefits can be achieved by your printer that would have been otherwise unattainable within the CMYK spectrum. From more vibrant printed results to the nearly endless applications white ink makes possible, this pertinent tool is a map printer’s friend…
Normalizing the Surface of Darker Substrates
From pastel hues to black, utilizing white ink as a foundational layer on colored substrates is integral to facilitating brilliant color and proper tone on paper that is not white. Without the use of an opaque layer of white ink to create a surface that mimics the look of white paper, color output on darker substrates would be muted, dull, or unrecognizable, leaving printers and their clientele stuck with white or lighter colored substrates in efforts to achieve their desired color results.
As a Base for Translucent & Metallic Substrates
On metallic substrates, opaque white ink acts as a barrier to preventing the sparkle and shine of metallic effects from breaking through a CMYK image in unwanted areas. On clear or translucent substrates, opaque white ink is essential, adding dimension and aiding in the visibility of text and imagery by preventing light from passing through and washing out colors. These facets make white ink integral in signage, backlit signage, window cling, and label and packaging industry creations.
Broadening Substrate Selection
With white ink, potential applications are nearly limitless. White ink can be used with a wide range of materials, from paper and synthetic substrates, to plastics, glass, wood, stone, fabrics, and other textiles, allowing designers and print shops to successfully achieve clear, never before believed possible.
Allowing for Special Effects
Highly reflective, ‘foot-printing’ white ink (using it as a base layer) can help colors and imagery pop-off richly colored substrates, or be used alone for vivid contrast. White on white is also an easy way to add a watermark effect to any shade of paper when added at just the right opacity.
Is White Ink In Your Future?
The presence of white ink in the design and printing industry is growing as ink and printing technology evolves to accommodate the desire for increased design flexibility, substrate choices, and more vivid printed results. Learn more about how the simple addition of white ink can transform your map printing results. Contact MapPrinter and discuss the benefits of white ink for your upcoming project today.
