Make It Pop: Why Specialty Inks Are Worth the Hype

Not Your Average Ink: Add Texture, Shine, and Wow

When you want your shirt to sparkle, shine, or glow in the dark, specialty inks are the way to go. At Empire Printing, we offer a variety of standout screen printing inks that go beyond basic colors—designed to catch eyes and turn heads.

Specialty Inks We Offer:

• Metallic Silver & Metallic Gold – For a classy shimmer that catches the light.

• Glitter Inks – Available in red, orange, green, blue, purple, gold, and silver. A favorite for eye-catching sparkle that stays put.

• Chrome Ink – Our boldest, shiniest option. It reflects like polished metal, though it may fade with repeated washes.

• Glow-in-the-Dark Ink – A fun and functional effect that charges under light and glows in the dark—perfect for night events or kids’ apparel.

• Reflective Ink – Typically used on safety wear, running gear, and uniforms. It bounces light back in the dark—ideal for law enforcement or high-visibility jobs.

• Additives & Effects – Ask us about puff additives (adds a raised, 3D feel), suede or leather textures (for a tactile finish), and other specialty enhancements.

While these inks cost more (nearly 4x the price of a regular color), they elevate your apparel in a big way. We charge double the standard print cost when specialty inks are used—but many of our customers say the bold impact is worth every penny.

5 Reasons to Use Specialty Inks

1. Stand-Out Style – Shine, sparkle, reflect, or glow—each ink has its own wow factor.

2. Function & Fashion – Reflective and glow inks aren’t just cool—they’re also practical for visibility and safety.

3. Tactile Textures – Puff and suede finishes give a premium, dimensional feel to your designs.

4. Brand Differentiation – Eye-catching prints help your merch or uniforms stand out in a crowd.

5. Creative Freedom – Whether it’s for style, safety, or something in between—specialty inks help bring unique visions to life.

5 Things to Know Before You Commit

1. Higher Cost – Specialty inks come at a premium and are priced accordingly.

2. Durability Varies – Some effects, like chrome, don’t hold up as well after many washes.

3. More Prep Time – These prints often require extra care, layers, or dry time.

4. Limited Color Flexibility – Specialty inks don’t mix as easily as standard ones.

5. Garment Dependent – Some inks perform best on specific fabrics or colors.

Whether you're designing spirit wear, event apparel, safety gear, or standout merch, specialty inks can take your project to the next level.

Want to see samples or get a quote?
👉 Submit your request here or visit our Screen Print page to learn more!