Yes, pigment ink is generally good for paper, especially for archival purposes and certain types of paper. However, the type of paper and the desired outcome will influence whether pigment ink is the best choice.
Advantages of Pigment Ink for Paper
- Archival Quality: Pigment inks are highly fade-resistant and water-resistant, making them excellent for documents and prints intended to last a long time. This is because the pigment particles are larger and less likely to break down compared to dye-based inks.
- Sharpness and Detail: Pigment inks often produce very sharp and detailed prints, especially on matte or lightly textured papers.
- Water Resistance: Prints made with pigment inks are much less likely to smudge or run if exposed to water compared to dye-based inks.
- Good for Specific Paper Types: Pigment inks work particularly well with matte and lightly textured papers, as well as heavier fine art media, including canvas.
Disadvantages of Pigment Ink for Paper
- Surface Sensitivity: On some textured papers, pigment inks can be prone to flaking if not handled carefully.
- Cost: Pigment inks are typically more expensive than dye-based inks.
- Bronzing: Some pigment inks, particularly blacks, can exhibit "bronzing," a metallic sheen that can be undesirable in certain applications.
- Not Ideal for Glossy Paper: Pigment inks generally don't perform as well on glossy papers as dye-based inks, which are absorbed more readily into the glossy coating. This can result in prints that are less vibrant and prone to smudging.
Recommendations for Using Pigment Ink on Paper
- Choose the Right Paper: Select matte, lightly textured, or fine art papers for optimal results with pigment inks.
- Consider a Protective Coating: Spraying the surface of the print with a preservation lacquer can help protect the pigments and prevent flaking, especially on textured papers.
- Handle Prints Carefully: Avoid excessive rubbing or handling of pigment ink prints, particularly on textured surfaces.
- Test Before Printing: Always test your ink and paper combination to ensure the desired results before printing large quantities.
In conclusion, pigment ink is a good choice for paper when archival quality, water resistance, and sharp details are important. Choosing the right paper type and handling the prints carefully will ensure the best possible results.
