MagnaColours launches new under base ink

Water-based textile inks supplier MagnaColours has developed a new under base ink to enable plastisol screen printers to take their first steps into water-based printing.

Previewed at ISS Long Beach 2019 in January, MagnaPrint Killer Base is commercially available from today (Monday 8 April).

It has been developed to improve print appearance and handling while simultaneously providing “significant” cost savings for printers.

MagnaColours said the product is designed to be used as a water-based replacement for the first layer of plastisol ink or as an alternative option for printers using discharge under bases.

With high opacity and “excellent” fibre matting down properties, the product is said to provide a smooth, silk-like under base for further layers of plastisol ink to be printed over, and also prevents fibrillation and pin-holing of fabrics.

The developer said its other benefits include minimal print weight, reduced application costs and the fact that it has none of the pot-life implications associated with using a discharge under base.

MagnaColours owner and chairman Tom Abbey said: “Killer Base is suitable for small print shops looking to improve the handle of plastisol prints or just beginning the process of moving to water-based inks by starting with a single screen.

“It’s also perfect for larger printing companies who now understand the virtues and benefits of water-based printing, including process improvements, end product satisfaction and environmental performance.

“With Killer Base, we’re also showing that switching to Magna water-based inks makes economic sense for screen printers.”

MagnaColours has also just launched MagnaPrint Fade Out, a special effect ink from the MagnaColours Vintage range that is designed to gradually fade following washing, creating controlled ‘wash-down’ and distressed effects.

This product can be used as an overprint with other ink systems, enabling hidden printed areas to be revealed within the design over time.

Earlier this year MagnaColours unveiled BluePrint, its new sustainability initiative. Last year it acquired the goodwill and inventory of pigments, dyestuffs and speciality chemicals supplier LJ Specialities and launched new products MagnaPrint Emboss Ink and MagnaPrint Glow FX.