Which is the right ink ribbon for me?

Choosing the correct ink ribbon for your label type is very important. There are three main types of ink ribbon; Wax, Wax/Resin and Resin.

Wax ribbons are coated with a wax based ink. They are the cheapest and most widely used type of ink ribbon and are best suited to a matt or semi-gloss label material. If printed onto matt label stock the ink has some smudge and scratch resistance and when printed onto semi-gloss paper it offers a smaller amount to smudging and scratching.

Wax ribbons are not suitable for use on gloss paper or gloss synthetic (polypropylene, vinyl etc) label material as you will be able to remove the ink with just a gentle rub. This is generally the cheapest type of ink ribbon.

Wax/Resin ink ribbons are coated with a wax and resin combination of inks. They offer greater smudge and scratch resistance than wax ink ribbons on matt and semi-gloss paper and can get good results on both matt and gloss synthetic materials. This is our most popular type of ink ribbon.

Resin ink ribbons are coated with a resin based ink. They are usually reserved for printing onto matt or gloss synthetic materials as these offer good water, oil and chemical resistance. After printing with a resin ink ribbon the print will not smudge or scratch at all. It is best to ask us for advice if you need your ink ribbon to be resistant to certain chemicals as there is a wide range of resin ink ribbons some more suited to chemical resistance and some more suited to labels that will be exposed to high temperatures etc. This is our most durable type of ink ribbon.