Glitter, pearlescent, fluorescent, thermochromic—even the names of specialty inks raise the specter of something exciting.

By Tom Polischuk

The Starlight Fluorescent system from Alden & Ott Printing Inks is designed to give printers more flexibility with press speeds and color strength. The inks are thermal transfer printable and are available in Pantone® colors, as well as custom color matches.

Metallic inks are being used to brighten up many packages on store shelves. Water Ink Technologies’ Water Bright Metallic inks are formulated to provide an enhanced metallic sheen and excellent printability. These flexo inks are also available in trappable formulations to enhance production flexibility.