The Ultimate Guide to Water Based Ink for Screen Printing
Water based ink has become a game-changer in the screen printing industry, offering a soft-hand feel, eco-friendly properties, and vibrant colors for high-quality prints. Unlike traditional plastisol ink, which sits on top of the fabric, water based inks penetrate the fibers, creating a lightweight, breathable, and long-lasting print. Whether you're a beginner or a professional screen printer, understanding the benefits, applications, and techniques of water based screen printing will help you achieve top-tier results. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about water based ink, including formulation, curing, mixing, and selecting the best products for your needs.
Table of Contents
- What Is Water Based Ink and How Does It Work?
- Water Based Ink vs. Plastisol Ink – Which Is Better?
- Why Screen Printers Are Switching to Water Based Inks
- Understanding the Formulation of Water Based Inks
- How to Cure Water Based Ink for Long-Lasting Prints
- Mixing Water Based Ink for Optimal Consistency
- Choosing the Right Mesh Count for Water Based Screen Printing
- How to Print on Dark Garments with Water Based Ink
- The Best Water Based Ink for Screen Printing – Popular Products
- Tips for Getting the Best Results with Water Based Ink
What Is Water Based Ink and How Does It Work?
Water based inks are defined as inks that use water as the main solvent for carrying pigment instead of PVC or oil-based compounds. This makes them an environmentally friendly alternative to plastisol inks. The key advantage of water based ink is its ability to soak into the fibers of the fabric, creating a soft and flexible print that moves with the garment. Unlike plastisol, which requires an underbase on dark fabrics, certain water based inks can achieve high opacity with the right techniques.
The curing process for water based inks relies on evaporation, as the water must be completely removed for the ink to bond to the fabric. Proper drying techniques ensure a wash-resistant and durable print.
Water Based Ink vs. Plastisol Ink – Which Is Better?
Both water based ink and plastisol ink have their strengths and weaknesses. Plastisol ink is favored for its easy-to-use nature, thick consistency, and ability to sit on top of the fabric, making it ideal for opaque prints on dark garments. However, printing with plastisol inks requires high temperatures for curing, and the ink contains PVC, making it less environmentally friendly.
On the other hand, water based inks offer a soft-hand feel, are considered better for the environment, and provide vibrant colors with a more natural look. The main challenge is that water based ink can dry in the screen, requiring printers to work efficiently or use additives to extend drying time.
Why Screen Printers Are Switching to Water Based Inks
The screen printing industry is experiencing a shift toward water based inks due to their eco-friendly properties and superior soft-hand finish. Many manufacturers are now producing high-quality water based inks with ready-to-use formulations that make them more accessible to screen printers.
Another reason for their rising popularity is the rise of direct-to-film (DTF) printing, which has introduced hybrid ink systems that combine water based ink properties with digital flexibility.
Understanding the Formulation of Water Based Inks
The formulation of water based ink consists of pigments, binders, and water as the main solvent. Some formulations also include acrylic compounds to enhance adhesion and durability.
There are several types of water based inks available, including:
- Standard Water Based Ink – Ideal for light-colored fabrics, providing a soft hand feel.
- Discharge Water Based Ink – Removes the dye from dark garments, replacing it with new pigment for a vibrant print.
- Hybrid Water Based Ink – A mix of water based and plastisol properties for increased opacity.
Each formulation requires a curing process that ensures the ink bonds to the fabric permanently.
How to Cure Water Based Ink for Long-Lasting Prints
The curing process is crucial for ensuring water based screen printing results in durable and wash-resistant prints. Unlike plastisol ink, which requires heat to melt the ink onto the garment, water based ink must undergo complete evaporation to cure properly.
Best Curing Techniques:
- Heat Press – Using a heat press at 320°F for 1-2 minutes ensures proper curing.
- Conveyor Dryer – Ideal for high-production shops, providing even heating for consistent results.
- Flash Dryer – Can be used for spot curing but may require additional passes for full curing.
If the ink is not cured properly, it will wash out after the first few cycles.
Mixing Water Based Ink for Optimal Consistency
Achieving the right consistency is essential for smooth application and high-quality prints. Some water based inks come ready for use, while others require mixing with binders, pigments, or retarders to prevent premature drying.
To mix ink properly:
- Stir well before use to evenly distribute pigments.
- Use additives to slow down drying time.
- Test on scrap fabric before printing to ensure smooth application.
Choosing the Right Mesh Count for Water Based Screen Printing
The mesh count plays a vital role in water based screen printing because these inks have a thinner consistency compared to plastisol inks. Using the right mesh ensures proper ink flow and detail retention.
Recommended Mesh Counts:
- 110-156 Mesh – Best for standard prints and medium details.
- 180-230 Mesh – Ideal for fine details and halftones.
- 260+ Mesh – Used for high-detail designs and discharge printing.
How to Print on Dark Garments with Water Based Ink
Printing on dark garments with water based ink requires special techniques to achieve bright, vibrant colors. Using discharge ink or an underbase can help enhance the opacity of prints on dark fabrics.
Techniques for Dark Garments:
- Using Discharge Ink – Removes the garment’s dye, replacing it with pigment for a natural, soft print.
- Applying an Underbase – A white undercoat helps create bright colors on darker fabrics.
- Layering for Opacity – Multiple layers of ink can improve opacity without making the print heavy.
The Best Water Based Ink for Screen Printing – Popular Products
If you’re looking to buy 4 inks for water based screen printing, here are some of the popular products used by professionals:
- Acrylic Water Based Ink – Offers excellent adhesion and durability.
- Hybrid Water Based Ink – Provides a balance between plastisol and water based properties.
- Discharge Ink – Perfect for dark garments, creating soft-hand prints.
- High-Quality Ready-to-Use Ink – Designed for easy application and long-lasting results.
These inks are virtually odor-free, wipe easily from screens, and provide high-quality finishes.
Tips for Getting the Best Results with Water Based Ink
- Keep screens wet to prevent ink from drying in the mesh.
- Use a water-resistant emulsion for stencil durability.
- Perform testing on different fabrics before large runs.
- Ensure a complete curing process to prevent wash issues.
- Choose the right mesh count for detailed designs.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve vibrant colors, a soft-hand feel, and high-quality prints with water based screen printing.
Water Based Ink – A Soft and Eco-Friendly Printing Solution
Water based ink is a top choice for screen printers looking for a soft-hand feel, vibrant colors, and an environmentally friendly alternative to plastisol inks. Unlike plastisol, it absorbs into the fabric, creating a lightweight, breathable print that lasts. While it requires proper curing for durability, its high-quality finish makes it ideal for fashion brands and premium apparel water based ink.
Water Based Screen Printing – Soft and Eco-Friendly Prints
Water based screen printing is a sustainable and high-quality printing method that creates soft-hand, breathable designs. Unlike plastisol, water based ink soaks into the fabric for a natural feel and vibrant colors. Ideal for eco-conscious brands, it requires proper curing for wash-resistant and long-lasting results.
Screen Printing Inks – Choosing the Right Formula for Your Prints
Screen printing inks come in various types, including water based ink for a soft-hand feel and plastisol ink for high-opacity prints. Each type offers unique benefits, from vibrant colors to durability. Selecting the right ink ensures professional, high-quality results on different fabrics.
