From Plastisol to Water based: How to choose the Main 4 Types of Ink for Different Material Surfaces?

How to choose the right ink cooperate with screen mesh for different surface

 

Choosing the right ink is critical in screen printing, as it can significantly impact the quality and durability of your final product. From achieving vibrant colors to ensuring your design withstands wear and tear, the right ink choice plays a vital role. However, with so many options available, determining the best ink for your specific project can be challenging.

This guide is here to simplify the process. We’ll explore the various types of screen printing inks, their ideal applications, and the fabrics they work best with, helping you make an informed decision for your project.

Whether you’re printing on fabric, metal, or plastic, this article will provide the insights you need to select the perfect ink for your screen printing needs.

 

1. Plastisol Ink: Durability and Versatility

Plastisol ink is one of the most popular choices for screen printing, particularly for textiles like t-shirts, hoodies, and other apparel. Known for its durability, plastisol ink offers a thick, opaque finish that stands up to repeated washing and wear. It is a PVC-based ink that remains on top of the fabric rather than being absorbed, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting prints.

 

Advantages:

● Durability: Plastisol ink is resistant to cracking, fading, and wear, making it ideal for products that will be subjected to regular use.

● Ease of use: It’s versatile and easy to handle, even for beginners.

● Vibrant colors: Plastisol inks produce bold and sharp prints that stand out, especially when used on darker fabrics.

 

Famous Brands:

● Wilflex (USA): Known for high-quality plastisol inks used worldwide.

● Union Ink (USA): A leading brand offering a wide range of plastisol inks.

 

Materials & Case Study: Plastisol ink is often used for cotton t-shirts or polyester blends. For example, a custom apparel company that specializes in printing band t-shirts might use plastisol ink to achieve bright, bold designs that withstand the test of time.

 

 

the difference between water based ink and plastisol ink

 

2. Water-Based Ink: Eco-Friendly and Soft Touch

Water-based ink is a popular choice for eco-conscious screen printers. It is more environmentally friendly than plastisol and offers a softer finish. When applied to fabrics, it soaks into the material, creating a more natural feel compared to the thicker, more rigid plastisol ink. This makes water-based inks a favorite among high-end fashion brands and eco-conscious designers.

 

Advantages:

● Eco-friendly: Water-based inks are biodegradable and free from harmful solvents, making them a better choice for environmentally sustainable printing.

● Soft hand feel: Since the ink is absorbed into the fabric, water-based inks leave a soft, breathable finish, which is ideal for high-quality garments.

● Vibrant colors on light fabrics: Water-based inks are best used on lighter fabrics, where they can deliver bright, rich colors.

 

Famous Brands:

● Speedball (USA): Known for water-based inks that are widely used for fine art and fabric printing.

● EnviroInk (USA): An eco-friendly water-based ink line from International Coatings.

Materials & Case Study: Water-based inks are ideal for organic cotton shirts or high-end fashion apparel. A fashion brand focusing on sustainability might opt for water-based inks to print their logo or designs on eco-friendly clothing.

 

 

ink variety

 

3. Discharge Ink: Achieving Vibrant Prints on Dark Fabrics

Discharge ink is a special type of ink used for printing on dark fabrics. It works by removing the dye from the fabric and replacing it with the desired ink color. This unique process allows printers to achieve vibrant prints on dark-colored materials without the need for a white underbase.

 

Advantages:

● Soft finish: Discharge inks create a soft print, as they don’t sit on top of the fabric like plastisol ink. This results in a more natural feel.

● Vibrant prints on dark fabrics: It’s the only ink that can achieve bright, vivid prints on dark fabrics without the need for heavy undercoating.

● Breathable: Since the ink is absorbed into the fabric, it does not affect the fabric’s breathability, making it a comfortable option for apparel.

 

Famous Brands:

● Rutland (USA): A leading supplier known for its high-quality discharge inks.

● PolyOne (USA): Known for its range of discharge inks, including specialized formulas for soft-hand finishes.

Materials & Case Study: Discharge ink works best on dark cotton fabrics such as black or navy t-shirts. A clothing brand specializing in vintage-style apparel might use discharge inks to print bold graphic designs on dark cotton, offering both a distressed aesthetic and a soft, comfortable feel.

 

screen printing stencil

 

4. Solvent-Based Ink: Ideal for Non-Porous Surfaces

Solvent-based inks are commonly used for printing on non-porous materials, such as plastics, metals, and glass. These inks are highly durable and resistant to fading, making them ideal for signage, promotional items, and industrial applications.

 

Advantages:

● Durability: Solvent-based inks are known for their resistance to outdoor elements and harsh conditions, making them perfect for industrial and outdoor use.

● Versatility: They can be used on a wide range of non-porous surfaces like plastic, glass, and metal.

● Fast drying: Solvent inks dry quickly and are suitable for large-scale printing operations.

 

Famous Brands:

● Nazdar (USA): Known for solvent-based inks used in outdoor signage and printing on plastic, vinyl, and other materials.

● Sun Chemical (USA): A global leader in ink manufacturing, offering high-quality solvent-based inks for various industrial applications.

Materials & Case Study: Solvent-based inks are commonly used for printing on acrylic signage or metal promotional items.

 

water based ink

 

---

 

Importance of the Right #Printing Mesh for Ink Application

When it comes to screen printing, the mesh used in the process plays a crucial role in achieving precise, clean prints. The type of mesh, along with the chosen ink, must be compatible for optimal results. A high-quality printing mesh ensures that the ink passes through smoothly without clogging, while also offering the right level of detail for intricate designs.

 

Key Considerations for Choosing #Printing Mesh:

● Mesh count: Higher mesh counts are ideal for finer details (e.g., 200-230 mesh for detailed graphics), while lower mesh counts are better for thicker inks and bolder designs (e.g., 110-160 mesh for larger prints).

● Fabric type: Polyester mesh is the most commonly used for screen printing, providing durability and flexibility.

● Ink compatibility: The mesh should be chosen based on the ink type to prevent issues such as clogging or uneven ink distribution.

At Gesheng, we specialize in screen printing mesh, and also offer expert solutions to elevate your screen printing projects. Whether you’re looking to enhance your brand or create standout printed products, Gesheng is your ideal partner. Our deep expertise in mesh allows us to provide tailored services that meet your specific needs.

 

Ready to take the next step? Here's how we can assist:

● Visit Our Website: Razor barbed wire fence

● Schedule a Consultation: Contact Gesheng for a free consultation. Our experts are ready to discuss how our high-quality screen printing can help your print make a lasting impact in a competitive market.

 

 

Partner with Gesheng, a leader in screen-printed mesh, to achieve outstanding results. Contact us today to learn how we can bring your vision to life with precision and creativity!