What ink is best for printing on dark or coloured surfaces?

Struggling to get print visibility on dark packaging? Here’s how to choose high-contrast CIJ inks for coloured backgrounds.

Common dark substrates

  • Black or dark blue HDPE

  • Coloured PET bottles

  • Rubber components

  • Cable jackets


Your options

Ink Type Visibility
Standard black MEK Poor on black substrates
Light blue or white pigmented ink Best for dark or coloured plastics
UV-fluorescent inks Invisible in normal light; visible under UV
Thermochromic ink Changes colour with heat (for special applications)
 

Tips for best results

  • Use pigmented ink with a stirred tank system (ask if compatible)

  • Lower print speed to improve contrast

  • Adjust print height and boldness in message editor