INK TYPES FOR SCREEN PRINTING

Different inks create different print finishes, textures, and durability levels. Here’s a breakdown of the three main ink types: Plastisol, Water-Based, and Discharge.

PLASTISOL

Plastisol is the industry standard for screen printing. It sits on top of the fabric rather than absorbing into it, delivering vibrant colours, sharp details, and excellent durability. While plastisol prints can sometimes feel heavy, we are one of the few companies that have developed techniques for producing soft, lightweight prints using this ink.

LOOK

- Matte on light coloured garments

- Slightly satin on dark colours garments

FEEL

- Soft on light coloured garments

- Smooth on dark coloured garments

PROS

- Vibrant, accurate colours

- Sharp details

- Works on a wide range of garments & colours

- Very durable

CONS

- Slightly satin finish (some may prefer this)

- Sits on the fabric rather than absorbing into it (can be a pro depending on preference)

WATERBASED

Water-based ink permeates the fabric, creating the softest print possible. It’s ideal for light garments where a lightweight, breathable finish is preferred.

LOOK 

- Matte, integrated into the fabric

FEEL

- As soft as the fabric

PROS

- Ultra-soft hand feel

- Lightweight & breathable

- More eco-friendly than plastisol

- Durable 

CONS

- Suitable for light garments only

- Less vibrant colours than plastisol

- Colour matching is less precise

- Higher cost

DISCHARGE

Discharge ink is a waterbased ink designed for dark garments. It works by removing the garment’s dye and replacing it with pigment, resulting in a soft, vintage-style print.

LOOK

- Matte, part of the fabric

FEEL

- As soft as the shirt fabric

PROS

- Soft, breathable print that feels like part of the fabric

- Works well for vintage designs that are more muted

- High detail

CONS

- Contains formaldehyde, which evaporates during curing but may leave traces – not recommended for children’s or baby clothing

- May cause irritation for sensitive skin – we recommend washing before wearing

- Colours tend to dull faster than other inks, especially without proper care, best for vintage style artwork

- Works best on 100% cotton garments

- Limited colour & garment options

- Colour matching is less accurate

- Less vibrant colours than plastisol

- Higher cost