Central to the decisions we make in the screen printing process are the inks used, with water-based and plastisol inks being the most common options.
Plastisol Ink: The Industry Standard
Plastisol ink has long been the backbone of screen printing. This versatile ink sits on top of fabric, creating vibrant, robust prints that have become synonymous with high-quality screen printing. Its ability to deliver consistent, bright colors has made it a favorite among print shops worldwide.
Key Characteristics of Plastisol Ink
- Exceptional color vibrancy
- Sits on top of fabric surface
- Works well across multiple fabric types
Water-Based Ink: The Soft Touch
In contrast, water-based ink takes a different approach. Instead of sitting on the fabric's surface, it penetrates the fibers, essentially re-dying the material. This unique characteristic results in prints with an incredibly soft hand feel and superior breathability.
Advantages of Water Based Printing
- Softer, more comfortable prints
- Breathable fabric finish
- More environmentally friendly (Kinda)
Plastisol vs. Water-Based: A Detailed Comparison
Choosing between plastisol and water based inks isn't about finding a universal winner, but selecting the right tool for a specific job. Each ink type brings distinct advantages to different printing scenarios.
Color and Vibrancy
Plastisol ink typically offers more vibrant and opaque colors, especially on darker fabrics. Water-based inks can have a slightly muted color intensity.
Fabric Interaction
- Plastisol: Creates a layer on top of the fabric
- Water Based: Integrates with fabric fibers
- Result: Different texture and feel for each ink type
Breathability and Comfort
“Water based prints excel in breathability, making them perfect for lightweight garments. After the first wash, you literally cannot feel the print.”
“Plastisol prints, while often less breathable, offer better color retention. Plastisol printing may have a reputation for being thick but ours is not. We use special thin thread mesh, custom ink formulas and screen printing techniques to ensure a nice thin print.”
Technical Considerations
Discharge Printing Challenges
Water based discharge printing requires careful consideration. The final color depends significantly on the garment's original dye, which can lead to unexpected results. Print shops must carefully test and predict outcomes.
Fabric Compatibility
- Plastisol ink performs consistently across various fabric types
- Water based ink works best on 100% cotton
- Blend compositions can dramatically affect print quality
Environmental and Cost Factors
Sustainability Trends
While water based inks were traditionally considered more eco-friendly, recent advancements in plastisol formulations have narrowed this gap. Modern plastisol inks are becoming increasingly environmentally conscious.
Cost Considerations
The price difference between plastisol and water based inks is minimal. We will always recommend prioritizing quality and project requirements over marginal cost variations.
Practical Applications
When to Choose Plastisol Ink
- Bold, graphic designs
- Prints requiring high color saturation
- Projects demanding durability
- Printing on diverse fabric types
Ideal Scenarios for Water Based Ink
- Soft, comfortable garments
- Designs with large areas of ink coverage
- Eco-conscious brand merchandise
- Designs prioritizing breathability
Future of Screen Printing Inks
The screen printing industry and print shops like Apparel Graphics continue to evolve. Innovations in ink technology are driving improvements in:
- Environmental sustainability
- Print quality
- Fabric interaction
- Color performance
Making the Right Choice
Selecting the perfect ink is about understanding your project's unique requirements. Consider factors like:
- Desired print feel
- Fabric type
- Color intensity needs
- Environmental considerations
Conclusion: No Universal Solution
There's no one-size-fits-all ink for screen printing. Water based and plastisol inks each have their place, offering distinct advantages. The key is matching the right ink to your specific design and fabric.
By understanding the nuanced characteristics of these inks, you can elevate your screen printing projects from good to exceptional. At Apparel Graphics, we're committed to helping you achieve just that—with precision, quality, and a passion for sustainable printing.
Contact us today to learn more about the characteristics, limitations and process of screen printing with water based and plastisol ink.
