What is the difference between traditional plastisol and water-based ink?

      In screen printing, the two most commonly used inks are water-based and traditional plastisol. So which one is right for your 

garment? This blog introduces their characteristics and advantages.

Water-based screen printing

It uses water-based ink to print the design directly on the fabric.

Characteristics

• Natural and soft: water-based ink has a softer effect. The printed pattern blends with the fabric without creating a noticeable texture on the

  
  

  
  

  fabric. This makes the printed pattern look more natural, suitable for some designs that pursue simplicity and comfort.

• Breathable: Since it uses water-based ink, the pattern it forms on the fabric is very thin and has good breathable. This makes T-shirts more

  
  

  
  

  suitable for summer or high temperature environments.

Traditional plastisol screen printing

It uses traditional plastisol ink to print the pattern on the T-shirt through a printing press.

Characteristics

• Vibrant and long-lasting colors: Due to the higher concentration of traditional plastisol ink, the printed pattern can be better displayed and

  
  

  
  

  the color is more full.

• Suitable for complex patterns: traditional plastisol screen printing can be suitable for complex patterns and multi-color designs. It is better

  
  

  
  

  able to maintain detail and color accuracy and is suitable for some designs that require highly accurate printing.

• Durability: plastisol screen printing has stronger adhesion on T-shirts, so the durability is relatively high. It can withstand multiple washings

  
  

  
  

  
  

  and wears, and the patterns won't fade or fray easily.

      Therefore, choosing water-based ink screen printing or traditional plastisol screen printing depends on your needs and design style. If you 

are looking for a natural, soft, breathable effect, and like a simple design,  water-based ink screen printing is a good choice. Traditional 

plastisol screen printing is a more suitable option if you want your patterns to be vibrant in color and detail, and require  greater durability.