Clear Screen Printing Ink – Gloss Gel & HD Clear

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Quick answer: Clear screen printing ink is a clear plastisol used as a top coat or an effect on its own. A clear gloss gel adds a high-gloss, wet or textured look over other colors; a high-density gloss clear is stacked in thick layers for a raised, 3D look with sharp edges. Both are printed like plastisol and must be fully cured to reach their full gloss.

Two kinds of clear ink

	Clear Gloss Gel	Hi Density Gloss Clear
What it does	Super high-gloss, textured or "wet" effect; a clear gel top coat over other inks; also used as a stretch base for Lycra	Thick, raised 3D prints with excellent edge definition when stacked; maximum gloss when fully cured
Fabrics (maker notes)	Top coat on most plastisol prints	100% cotton, or poly/cotton over a low-bleed underlay
Color	Clear	Clear — can be tinted with up to 30% color boosters to make gel colors
Buy	WM Plastics Clear Gloss Gel, quart ($37.00) · WM Plastics Clear Gloss Gel, gallon ($98.00)	WM Plastics Hi Density Gloss Clear, quart ($42.00)

How to print clear gloss ink

Print and flash your design first if the clear is going on top as a gloss coat.
Use a separate screen for the clear, registered to the area you want to shine.
For high-density 3D effects, use a thick stencil (high-density emulsion or capillary film) and stack the clear with print-flash-print layers to build height.
Cure fully — clears only reach full gloss when completely cured. Check the label and our cure temperature chart, then stretch-test a cooled print.

Where clear ink works well

Gloss "wet look" accents on logos and lettering
Over metallic and lustre inks for extra shine
Raised 3D clear details (with high-density gloss clear)
Tinted gel colors for a candy-like glossy finish

More effects: glow in the dark ink · puff inks · all special effect inks · best screen printing ink by job.

Product descriptions are from WM Plastics as shown on our product pages. Prices are today's web prices. Unopened, unused ink is returnable within 30 days; opened ink is not (see returns).

Frequently asked questions

What is clear screen printing ink used for?

As a gloss top coat over other inks, for a wet or textured look, or stacked as a high-density clear for raised 3D prints.

What is the difference between clear gloss gel and high-density clear?

Clear gloss gel adds a high-gloss, wet or textured effect and works as a top coat. High-density gloss clear is made to be stacked thick for sharp, raised 3D prints.

Can you tint clear screen printing ink?

Yes. WM Plastics says Hi Density Gloss Clear can be tinted with up to 30% color boosters to make gel colors.

Does clear plastisol need to be cured?

Yes. Like all plastisol, clear ink must be fully cured — it reaches its full gloss and durability only when completely cured.

Where can I buy clear screen printing ink?

Buckets of Ink in Tempe, AZ stocks WM Plastics Clear Gloss Gel and Hi Density Gloss Clear for same-day pickup or shipping. Call 480-229-7806.

Planning a special-effect print? Ask us.
Buckets of Ink is a screen printing supply house and equipment dealer in Tempe, Arizona. Ask about our discounts, starter packages and great financing on equipment — we'll help you get into your next machine.
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Call 480-229-7806 · Showroom & pickup: 906 S Priest Dr, Suite 101, Tempe AZ 85281 · In-stock orders placed by 2:30 PM Arizona time ship the same day · Free ground shipping on orders over $500 (equipment excluded; see shipping and returns).