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Ink Mixing for Pad Printing

Right cup, right scale, right ratio. Seven rules for ink mixing that protect print quality and production schedules.

March 13, 2020

This guide addresses proper ink-preparation procedures for pad-printing operations. Incorrect mixing can compromise print quality and disrupt production schedules.

Seven mixing rules

  • Utilize containers specifically designed for ink to preserve quality
  • Thoroughly agitate bulk containers before transferring ink
  • Verify scale accuracy and placement on level surfaces
  • Maintain adequate ink volume relative to cup dimensions
  • Combine ink with hardener before introducing thinners or other additives
  • Dilute pad-printing inks using 10–20% thinner, with viscosity depending on equipment speed, environmental factors, pad firmness, and substrate characteristics
  • Add thinner gradually in small amounts rather than in large quantities to prevent over-dilution