Abstract: A hot melt ink comprising, ionomers and an image-forming agent, wherein the melting point of the ionomers is from about 50.degree. C. to about 130.degree. C., said ink exhibiting, in the molten stage, a viscosity from about 5 to about 60 centipoises (cps) at about 90.degree. to 140.degree. C. A method for ink jet printing comprising application of said ink in the molten state is also disclosed. A hot melt ink jet composition comprising a solid carrier component, an image-forming composition, and from about 5 to about 75 percent, by weight of an emulsifier is also disclosed, and the use thereof for ink jet printing.