Should I mix ink by weight or volume?

Weight is more accurate and reproducible — use a digital scale reading to 0.1 g. Volume measurements work but are less precise due to ink viscosity. Professional print workshops always mix by weight.

How do I match a colour consistently?

Record the exact ratio and brand/type of each ink used. Weigh each component precisely. Mix thoroughly until streak-free. Make a swatch and label it with the recipe. Always mix slightly more than you need.

When should I add white ink?

Add white (transparent or opaque) to lighten a colour. Start with the lighter colour and add the darker gradually. White affects the opacity of the mix — too much white makes colours chalky. For tints, start at 10-20% white.

How much ink should I mix for an edition?

Calculate the ink needed using the Ink Coverage Calculator, then add 30% for mixing waste and test prints. Always mix enough for the entire edition plus proofs in one batch — matching mixed colours later is very difficult.

Can I mix different brands of ink?

Mix within the same ink type (oil-based with oil-based, water-based with water-based). Different brands of the same type usually mix well, but test first. Never mix oil-based and water-based inks.

ArtCalcs

Ink Mixing Calculator — Custom Print Colour Ratios

Work out ink mixing ratios by weight or volume for custom print colours.

Total Amount

Total ink to mix

Measure By

Colour 1

Primary colour proportion

Colour 2

Secondary colour proportion

White (optional)

For tints / lighter values

How We Calculate This

How Ink Mixing Calculation Works

Amount = Total x (Percentage / Sum of all percentages)

Enter the proportions of each colour component. The calculator normalises the percentages to your total amount and provides exact weights or volumes for each component, plus a simplified ratio for reference.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Edition Size Calculator

Plan your print edition with numbered prints, artist proofs, printer proofs and hors commerce. Calculate total impressions needed.

Ink Coverage Calculator

Calculate the amount of printing ink needed based on image area, coverage percentage and edition size. Covers all print methods.

Print Paper Size Calculator

Work out printmaking paper dimensions with correct margins and bleed allowance. Standard bottom-weighted margins for presentation.

Registration Calculator

Calculate registration mark positions for multi-colour printmaking alignment. Covers kento, pin and corner registration methods.

Plate Size Calculator

Work out etching, lino or woodcut plate dimensions including bevel allowance, handling margins and weight. Free online calculator.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.