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Preparing substrates for ink-jet printing

Choosing the right ground for the substrate
How to apply a Digital Ground
Clean up

For optimal printing, GOLDEN Digital Grounds should always be mixed prior to use, as the ingredients will separate during storage.  Gently rock the container back and forth for one minute to assure proper mixing.

Porous/Absorbent
This group includes watercolor, printmaking, Japanese rice and other specialty papers, as well as canvas, various fabrics, and even unusual items like wallpaper, leather, or unsealed wood veneer.

Absorbent surfaces like paper and canvas can easily swell, buckle or become distorted when wet. Taping material to a sturdy backing-board or inflexible surface during product application can minimize this. If taping is not an option, applying the Digital Ground to the entire surface, including the edges, can help minimize curling. Once the sheet can be handled without dripping, hang by one corner until dry. Afterwards, if needed, press flat overnight under a weighted board.

Use either Digital Ground (Clear) or the Digital Ground White (Matte) depending on whether you want a clear coat that will reveal the substrate, or a white, gesso-like surface.

If the substrate is extremely absorbent, applying an initial coat of an acrylic medium or acrylic ground, such as GOLDEN GAC 100 or GOLDEN Gesso, can help seal the surface and allow for a more even application of the GOLDEN Digital Grounds with fewer coats.

Non-Porous/Non-Absorbent
This group includes materials such as aluminum, copper, metal foil, marble, and plastics such as Mylar®, Lexan®, Plexiglas®, and acetate.

Surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and free of oils.

Use Digital Ground for Non-Porous Surfaces or Digital Ground White (Matte) depending on whether you want a clear coat that will reveal the substrate or a white, gesso-like surface.

Acrylic Skins and Painted Surfaces
This group includes any surface painted or created with acrylic paints, gels, pastes or mediums.

For a clear coating, use either the Digital Ground Clear (Gloss) or Digital Ground for Non-Porous Surfaces.

For an opaque, white layer, use The Digital Ground White (Matte).

Application

Using a foam brush or foam roller, apply even coats of the Digital Ground to the substrate. Other types of brushes or rollers may be used but test for your application as some brushes might create a less even and more textured surface. Apply product quickly to allow the film sufficient time to level. Allow each layer to dry thoroughly before recoating. Two or more coats, applied in opposite directions, will typically provide the most uniform coating and best results.

Because the Digital Ground Clear (Gloss) and the Digital Ground for Non-Porous Surfaces are water-sensitive, additional coats can exhibit minimal to excessive brush drag during the application, especially if the initial coat has not dried sufficiently.

Allow 4-8 hours after applying the last coat before printing.

Clean Up
Clean tools with soap and water.

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