Best Black is the easiest-running ink for the press operator and this is how it got its name. Run a generally thin consistency. Run a generally thin consistency in the fountain. They have fallen out of favor since the inception of water-soluble inks over 30 years ago because of their difficulty of operation and cleanup, and because of their environmental hazards. Impressions made with Varnish Inks can be very glossy, which is the only reason that they are used in the United States today for die stamping.
Shelf life is much greater than that of water-soluble inks.
When thinning, use turpentine or a petroleum solvent. Varnish Inks are not laser proof since they melt at low temperatures. Also, they will become brittle and may chip away. 38 stock colors are available, as seen in the color chart booklet. Cronite will match Varnish Inks to almost any color desired.