Glassine bags are a popular choice for eco-friendly, semi-transparent packaging. Their smooth, moisture-resistant surface makes them ideal for many products, but how customizable are they when it comes to ink? If you find yourself asking the following questions:
Will Ink Smudge on Glassine?
Ink can smudge on glassine paper. Glassine is a smooth, glossy paper that is often used for its moisture and grease-resistant properties. However, it is also non porous, which means its surface can make it difficult for ink to dry quickly, leading to smudging.
The Best Ink To Use For Glassine Paper
One of the most crucial factors in avoiding smudging is selecting the correct ink. Not all inks work well on non-porous surfaces like glassine. Here’s a breakdown of the best inks to use:
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Solvent-Based Inks: Solvent-based inks are excellent for glassine because they bond well with slick surfaces and dry relatively quickly. These inks penetrate the surface to ensure a strong, lasting print.
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Permanent Inks (like StazOn): Permanent inks are specifically formulated for non-porous surfaces. They dry quickly and adhere well to glassine, reducing the risk of smudging.
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Heat-Set Inks: These inks can be dried using a heat gun or hairdryer, making them a great option for glassine. The heat speeds up the drying process, ensuring the ink sets quickly and prevents smudging.
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Types of Inks to Avoid On Glassing Paper
Avoid using water-based inks on glassine. These inks are designed to absorb into porous surfaces, which is why they tend to pool and take longer to dry on glassine. Even after extended drying times, water-based inks may still smudge when handled.
Tips for Stamping, Writing, and Printing on Glassine
Apply light, even pressure when stamping to ensure a smooth application without excess ink pooling on the surface.
Use rubber stamps paired with permanent or solvent-based ink pads designed for non-porous surfaces.
Test your stamps and ink on a sample bag before mass printing to ensure the ink adheres well without smudging.
How To Speed Up the Drying Process
Since glassine isn’t as absorbent as other papers, it’s crucial to allow the ink to dry fully before handling the bags. There are a few ways to speed up the drying process:
- Air Drying: Give the ink plenty of time to dry naturally, especially if you're using permanent or solvent-based inks.
- Heat-Setting: Use a heat gun or hairdryer on a low setting to dry the ink quickly. Be careful not to overheat the bags, as this could cause warping.
Is It Worth Printing On Glassine?
If you're searching for something specific for your glassine bags and only need a small quantity, it might be worth considering. However, for long-term needs, finding a shop that customizes glassine bags for you would be a better option. While it may be pricier, it saves you time and effort. One of the great features of glassine is its translucency, allowing your product to shine through beautifully. Something like a simple sticker is all you need to complete the look!
Ready to customize your glassine bags without worrying about ink smudging?
At Impack, we offer the perfect glassine bags for personalization. We provide custom stickers and paper tapes, so you don’t have to worry about writing, printing, or stamping. If you’re looking to take it up a notch, you can easily insert our glassine bags inside our flat and padded mailers for a seamless packaging solution. Our glassine bags are available in two convenient sizes: 9.6" x 12.6" and 5.6" x 8.6". From just $12.00 USD!
