A thermal ink jet ink composition includes at least 50% by weight volatile organic solvent selected from C1-C4 alcohols, C3-C6 ketones, C3-C6 esters, C4-C8 ethers, and mixtures thereof; a colorant; a humectant present in an amount from about 1% to about 30% by weight; from 0.3% to 8% by weight of a binder resin; and not more than 5% by weight water; wherein the ink composition is compatible with components of a thermal ink jet printer.