Cranfield Lithography Inks are a traditional formulation of highest quality single pigment colors, with the exception of carefully selected blends of pigment for the earths. Lithography is the printmaking process that transfers the thinnist layer of ink onto the paper so the ink needs to be highly loaded with pigment and mixed to the right viscosity to transfer and yield vibrant results. Cranfield's formulation has barely changed in generations, but the quality of the pigments available today, and the superior grinding power of modern mills, produces exceptionally high strength, lightfast, and durable colors and a rich, velvet black.

All of Cranfields Lithography Inks are intermixable, and can be used for stone lithography, plate lithography, Prontoplate printing, and relief printing, the exceptions being the Roll-Up, Workshop, and Stiff Crayon Black which are specialist blacks developed with specific technical applications in stone and aluminum plate lithography.

Drying rate will vary according to color and drying conditions. Optimal results are obtained between 20-30 degrees C, with a relative humidity below 60%. Refer to “Cranfield Technical Note – Drying” for further advice. The Roll-Up, Workshop, and Stiff Crayon Black have a separate Technical Sheet for reference.

Cranfield Traditional Lithographic Loose Roll-Up Black is a non-drying black lithographic ink, with very low viscosity. It is used to provide a temporary protection to lithographic stones in storage between editions. Cranfield’s Roll-Up Black can be used without modification from the tin. It has a greasy, highly adhesive nature and is formulated to be resistant to erosion by creating a waxy, greasy barrier that helps the protect the image on the stone. As it is a non-drying ink, remaining wet and pliable, it can easily be removed with solvent when needed. Roll-Up Black is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the image throughout the lithographic process, ensuring that the final print accurately reflects the artist’s original drawing.