Eco-Friendly Soy-Based Block Printing Ink

The Eco-Friendly Soy-Based Block Printing Ink by Speedball leads the Arts & Crafts revolution by proving that high-performance professional relief printing does not require harsh chemical solvents or animal-derived ingredients.

Who it's for

This ink is designed for printmakers who prioritize environmental safety without sacrificing the rich, opaque coverage required for fine art prints.

• Individual studio artists working with linoleum or wood blocks.
• Art educators looking for safe, non-toxic alternatives for classroom environments.
• Home-based crafters who need an easy water-cleanup process in a domestic setting.
• Sustainable fashion designers creating block-printed textiles on natural fibers.

Key features & specs

How it compares

Unlike traditional oil-based inks that necessitate mineral spirits for cleanup, this soy-based formula offers the same tacky consistency and "orange peel" texture on the roller but cleans up with simple tap water. When compared to cheap water-based craft inks, the Speedball soy-based version remains open longer on the slab, preventing premature drying during large-scale print runs.

How to use it

1. Squeeze a small amount of ink onto a glass or acrylic inking plate.
2. Use a rubber brayer to roll the ink until it reaches a thin, even, tacky velvet consistency.
3. Apply the ink evenly to your carved linoleum or wood block using consistent pressure.
4. Place your paper over the block and apply pressure using a baren or a printing press.
5. Allow the prints to air dry for at least 24 hours in a well-ventilated area for a permanent finish.

"The consistency is buttery and the black is incredibly deep; I love that I can clean my entire studio with just soap and water after a long session." — Verified buyer

Sustainability & ethics

Speedball utilizes domestically sourced soy oil as the primary vehicle for this ink, reducing reliance on petroleum-based hydrocarbons. The formula is 100% vegan and is manufactured in a facility that adheres to strict non-toxic safety standards, ensuring that no harmful fumes are released during the printing or drying process.

Frequently asked questions

Is Speedball Eco-Friendly Soy-Based Block Printing Ink worth it?

Yes, it is worth it for professional artists who want the permanence of oil-based ink with the safety of water-based cleanup. It offers superior lightfastness compared to standard student-grade inks.

Does this ink work for fabric printing?

Yes, this soy-based ink works on fabric, though it requires heat-setting or a long curing time to ensure wash-fastness. For best results, use it on natural fibers like cotton or linen.

How does this soy ink compare to acrylic block inks?

Soy-based inks stay wet on the palette longer than acrylics, allowing for more detailed working time. Acrylic inks often dry too quickly on the block, causing sticking issues that soy avoids.

Is this product safe for children?

This ink carries the AP Non-Toxic seal, making it safe for use by supervised children in educational settings. It does not emit the VOCs common in traditional oil-based printmaking.