Advantages of screen printing with water based inks

When we talk about printing on Tshirts, two ink systems are most commonly used; solvent based and water based. These water based inks helps in improving production plant safety and making eco-friendly environment. Beyond these two other advantages are there for using water based inks for screen printing.

1. Eco-friendly ink

Plastisol ink is made by mixing up plasticizer and PVC resin . We won’t go too much into the chemical compositions, but as you all know anything plastic based isn’t good for the environment. Water-based inks are much more eco-friendly because they are completely PVC free and, so is the name, water-based; i.e., they have a solvent base consisting of water.

2. Water based ink prints are soft to touch

Screen printing with water based inks are really soft and flexible every time you touch.

3. Detailing is prominent

Water based inks dye the fabric instead of sitting on top of fabric. These water inks give much detail look to the garments. Even borders of the print are sharper. If you are looking for some minute detailing on your custom printed Tshirts, then surely screen printing with water based ink is a good choice.

4. Long lasting print

Water-based inks are more durable than plastisol ink. The longevity of plastisol ink is not comparable to that of water-based inks. Reason being these water based inks dye the fabric, the print work actually becomes part of the Tshirt. That means as long as the custom Tshirt holds up, so will the print.

5. Saving extra screen cost for underbase colour

An underbase is a layer of ink that is printed as a "base" on a dark custom Tshirt for other colors to hold on. This gives the top colors more vibrant look.

 Printing with water-based inks can save your money from paying for extra base colour unlike plastisol printing where underbase is required on dark coloured clothing.

Bottom line is if you want dark Tshirts and you are going with water-based inks, you will be saving money on the extra screen required for a plastisol underbase.

Summing up

Let’s sum up pros of water based ink printing

1. They create a soft, flexible and durable custom Tshirts.
2. Water based inks are not harmful to the environment.
3.  Equipment can be easily cleaned up with water.
4. These inks do not contain PVC or phthalates, so there are no negative effects on health.

Tshirts printed with water based inks are eco friendly and comfortable to wear. Water based inks are comprised from natural substances. That’s why these are much better for the printer, wearer and environment. Tshirts printed with these inks are pleasing to eyes. Water based inks dye the fabric that makes printed design on custom Tshirts much more detailing than other ink system.