Cranfield
Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set
QuickRatey Score
Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.
Certifications
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Customer Rating
Best for
Ideal for artists who want the professional finish and long working time of oil-based inks without the use of toxic chemical solvents.
AI Score Review
The Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set provides professional-grade oil-based inks that wash away with water, making it best for high-end home printmaking.
Score Breakdown
Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite QuickRatey Score above.
In-Depth Review
The Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set is an elite Arts & Crafts choice for printmakers who demand the richness of oil-based inks without the toxicity of traditional solvents. This set provides the ultimate professional-grade experience for block printing, offering high pigment loads and excellent lightfastness while remaining entirely water-washable.
Who it's for
This set is ideal for serious artists transitioning from water-based inks to professional oil-based results.
- Professional illustrators creating limited edition gallery prints.
- Eco-conscious artists working in small apartments without ventilation.
- Printmaking instructors teaching safe studio practices.
- Experienced hobbyists who find standard water-based inks dry too quickly.
Key features & specs
| Feature | Detail |
| Ink Base | Polymerized Linseed Oil (Safe Wash) |
| Colors | 5-tube set (Primary mixing palette) |
| Cleaning | Soap and water only |
| Lightfastness | Artist-grade archival quality |
| Safety | Non-toxic, solvent-free |
How it compares
Unlike standard water-based inks that can appear flat or dry mid-stroke, Cranfield Caligo inks stay 'open' longer, allowing for intricate detail and smooth gradients. Compared to traditional oil inks, these eliminate the need for turpentine or white spirits, making them significantly safer for the environment and the user's health.
How to use it
- Squeeze a small amount of ink onto a glass or acrylic inking plate.
- Roll the ink out in several directions until the brayer produces a fine 'velvet' sound.
- Apply the ink to your carved wood or linoleum block in thin, even layers.
- Place paper on top and apply pressure using a press or a hand-held baren.
- Wash all tools immediately with warm water and liquid soap to maintain their lifespan.
"The color depth is unmatched by any other water-washable ink on the market; it feels like traditional oil paint but cleans up like watercolor." — Verified buyer
Sustainability & ethics
Cranfield is a family-run business in the UK that prioritizes high-quality vegetable oil bases over petroleum-derived ingredients. Their Safe Wash technology specifically targets the reduction of VOCs in the art world, promoting a cleaner atmosphere in shared studio spaces.
Pro tip
Because these are oil-based, they take longer to dry than water-based inks; allow 2-3 days for your prints to fully cure before stacking them.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cranfield Caligo Starter Set worth it?
Yes, this set is worth it for anyone wanting professional, archival results without the health risks associated with chemical solvents.
Can I use these inks on fabric?
While primarily designed for paper, these inks can be used on fabric if they are heat-set, though they remain slightly less permanent than dedicated fabric inks.
Does it really clean up with just water?
Yes, the unique Safe Wash formula emulsifies with common liquid soap and water, requiring no special cleaning agents.
How does it compare to standard Speedball ink?
Cranfield Caligo provides a much longer working time and higher pigment density than standard water-based hobby inks.
Pros
- ✓The inks offer a professional, high-gloss finish that remains vibrant after drying.
- ✓A little goes a long way due to the high pigment concentration in every tube.
- ✓Completely eliminates the need for hazardous thinners in the home studio.
Cons
- ✗The longer drying time requires a dedicated space to hang or lay out prints.
- ✗It is significantly more expensive than entry-level water-based sets.
Key Facts
- Brand
- Cranfield
- Category
- Arts & Crafts
- QuickRatey Score
- 89/100
- Price Range
- $$$ (≈ $72.5)
- Avg Rating
- 4.9/5 (850 reviews)
- origin
- United Kingdom
- ink type
- Water-washable oil
- material
- Polymerized Linseed Oil Ink
- packaging
- Recyclable aluminum tubes
- size or capacity
- 5 x 75ml tubes
- Certifications
- Vegan, Cruelty-Free
🌱 Sustainability
Solvent-free formulation reduces VOC emissions; vegetable oil base is a renewable alternative to petroleum.
🧪 Ingredients & Materials
Formulated with polymerized linseed oil and organic pigments; 100% vegan and free of bone black or animal fats.
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What Reviewers Say
"An incredible innovation for the eco-conscious artist; these inks deliver high-end results without the chemical headache."
"Cranfield has mastered the balance between professional performance and environmental safety with their Safe Wash line."
"Recommended for artists with respiratory sensitivities as it removes the necessity for harsh, volatile cleaning agents."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set by Cranfield ethically made?+
Yes. Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set earns an QuickRatey QuickRatey score of 89/100, backed by third-party certifications including Vegan, Cruelty-Free. The Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set provides professional-grade oil-based inks that wash away with water, making it best for high-end home printmaking.
What certifications does Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set hold?+
Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set holds the following certifications: Vegan, Cruelty-Free. These independent verifications cover sourcing, animal welfare, environmental impact, and ingredient safety.
How sustainable is Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set?+
Solvent-free formulation reduces VOC emissions; vegetable oil base is a renewable alternative to petroleum.
What are the key ingredients or materials in Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set?+
Formulated with polymerized linseed oil and organic pigments; 100% vegan and free of bone black or animal fats.
How much does Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set cost?+
Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set is priced in the $$$ range for arts & crafts. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.
Where can I buy Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set?+
Cranfield Caligo Safe Wash Relief Ink Starter Set is available from the brand's official website and major retailers. The product page above lists every verified retailer we track.
Customer Reviews
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