Analysis of water-based ink color characteristics

hansen

2026-02-25

Water-based ink is easy to wash and relatively inexpensive. However, temperature, humidity, and pressure can affect the performance of the ink.

If the ink is too thick, the drawing will not dry properly, which can often cause smudging or sticking. Below are some analyses and countermeasures.

The Characteristics of Water-Based Ink Related to Temperature and Humidity

1. Temperature Influence

When the weather is very cold in winter, the ink becomes very viscous and it is not easy to roll the ink evenly.

Solution:
You can place the ink on a flat-bottom iron plate and heat it slightly, or add a small amount of reconcile water to mix with the ink.

When the ink becomes very fluid in summer, it may easily bleed if the pressure is too high during printing.

Solution:
Reduce the printing pressure slightly.

2. Humidity Influence

When the humidity is too high, such as on rainy days or during the rainy season, the ink easily absorbs moisture. The ink may become watery, and the ink roller will not roll smoothly.

Solution:
Use a hair dryer to dry the surface moisture.

Another common problem is that two printed works may stick together. Do not tear them apart, as they may break.

Solution:
Use a sprayer to spray a little water on the back of the work (do not make it too wet). After about 10 minutes, slowly separate the prints. A utility knife can also help. If it is still too tight, spray water again.

3. Ink Thickness for Multi-Color Printing

It is recommended to use thinner ink for multi-color printing on one plate.

Even if the color layer looks slightly unclear when the ink is thin, the color will appear naturally after dark or black ink is overprinted.

When water-based ink is in normal condition, it has very good ductility. Thin ink dries easily, and it is possible to print three colors in one lesson.

On the contrary, if you print one color and it still does not dry after 15 minutes, the ink is probably too thick.

4. Hansen Water-Based Ink Characteristics

Hansen water-based ink is more viscous and produces more detailed results in relief printing.

It dries more easily, making it convenient for multi-color overprinting, and it is less likely to clog grooves.

It can be used to print with green EZ plates and acrylic plates for intaglio printing.

When the ink is too thick, you can use the roller and adjust the ink with the other hand to help apply pressure. Try not to use oil or too much reconcile water to thin the ink.