What is the technique
Printing with Thermochromic inks
This method uses thermochromic inks that can change from
colourless to colourful or vice versa with the addition of heat. When it cools down, it reverts back to it’s original colour.
What are the relevant materials needed for the technique
Thermochromic inks
Objects like a mug
Fabric
Cups for mixing
Ice cream stick for mixing
Silkscreen
Template
How to achieve the technique
Mix 2-3 parts of Beta with a tablespoonful of thermochromic ink. Wear a mask and gloves and carefully yet thoroughly mix up the mixture until there is no more white Beta left. Iron your fabric first if it is crumpled then lay it flat on the table. Ensure that your fabric is bigger than the silkscreen itself for easier removal. Position the silkscreen on the fabric and when satisfied with the position, get your friends’ help to hold down the silkscreen. Pour a sufficient amount of thermochromic ink on the top of the silkscreen then use the scraper to scrap back and forth until the pattern is covered with ink. Hold the fabric down while someone removes the silkscreen and now let it air dry.
What are the uses and applications of the technique
Photos
Own personal reflections
Thermochromic inks are very fun to experiment with and you can create various colour combinations with it. However, it is difficult to find the inks locally and it must be outsourced and it is pretty expensive too. The really innovative use of these inks can be a form of warning as seen in the coffee mugs to notify others about the temperature of drinks to prevent burns. I have seen many people on Instagram colouring their shoes with thermochromic inks and it has become a trend because they experiment with so many different colours to come out with many beautiful variations. I actually own a thermochromic umbrella which changes from white to pink under the sun.