Water Based Screen Printing Ink: If you’re into screen printing, you’ve probably heard about water-based screen printing ink. This type of ink is becoming more popular because it’s better for the environment, and it gives prints a soft, smooth finish that everyone loves. This year, water-based inks are a great choice for both professional and hobby printers. But with so many options on the market, it can be tricky to figure out which brands stand out.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about water-based screen printing ink. We’ll also highlight the top brands for this year. Perhaps you’re printing on t-shirts, bags, or any other material, the right ink makes all the difference. Let’s take a look at what makes water-based ink special and the best brands to trust this year.
What Is Water Based Screen Printing Ink?
Water-based screen printing ink is a type of ink that uses water as its main solvent, instead of chemicals like oil or petroleum. This makes it a more eco-friendly option compared to traditional plastisol ink, which contains harmful chemicals. The beauty of water-based inks is that they soak into the fabric, leaving a soft, breathable feel that’s comfortable to wear. Plus, the colors are more vibrant and look great on most materials, especially light-colored fabrics.
Water-based ink is used in screen printing, a process where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto the material. Unlike plastisol ink, which sits on top of the fabric, water-based ink becomes part of the fabric, making prints more flexible and soft. This gives a high-quality finish that is both long-lasting and eco-friendly.
Why Use Water-Based Screen Printing Ink
Water-based inks offer several advantages over other types of inks. One of the main benefits is that they’re better for the environment. They contain fewer chemicals, which means less pollution and a smaller carbon footprint. This is great for anyone looking to make their business or hobby more sustainable.
Another big advantage of water-based ink is how soft it feels on the fabric. Since the ink soaks into the material, the print is not as stiff or thick as with plastisol ink. It also gives prints a more natural, breathable finish, which is a big plus for clothing and apparel.
The colors that water-based inks produce are also vibrant and look great on lighter fabrics. The finish is smooth and feels more comfortable to wear. Even after multiple washes, these prints tend to last longer, keeping their color and feel intact. So, when it comes to durability, water-based inks hold up well over time.
How to Choose the Best Water-Based Screen Printing Ink
Choosing the right water-based ink can be tricky if you don’t know what to look for. There are a few things to consider before you make a decision. First, think about the material you’re printing on. Different inks work better on different fabrics. For example, you may need a specific type of ink for cotton compared to polyester or other synthetic materials.
Next, consider the opacity of the ink. This is how well the ink covers the fabric. For dark-colored fabrics, you might need an ink that is more opaque or requires an underbase layer to help the colors pop. If you’re printing on lighter fabrics, you can usually get away with inks that are less opaque.
The drying time of the ink is another thing to think about. Some inks dry faster than others, which can affect your production speed. If you’re in a hurry, you might prefer an ink that dries quickly. Finally, consider the ease of use. Some inks are easier to work with than others, especially for beginners.
Best Water-Based Screen Printing Ink Brands
Now that you know the basics, let’s look at some of the best brands of water-based screen printing ink you will find. These brands offer high-quality, reliable products that can help you achieve great prints every time.
Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink
Speedball is a popular brand that has been in the screen printing industry for many years. Their water-based inks are well-loved for being easy to use and clean. These inks work great for beginners and professionals alike, offering a smooth, vibrant finish on a wide range of fabrics.
Speedball ink is non-toxic and safe for the environment, making it a great choice for anyone who is eco-conscious. They offer a variety of colors, and their inks are easy to work with, even in larger batches. The opacity is good on lighter fabrics, and the ink dries quickly, saving you time in production.
Jacquard Professional Screen Printing Ink
Jacquard is another brand that is known for high-quality screen printing products. Their water-based ink is perfect for printing on textiles, providing a soft, smooth feel. Jacquard inks are also known for their vibrant colors and ability to work well with detailed designs and fine lines.
Jacquard inks are great for artists who need precision in their work. They are also eco-friendly and non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry about harmful chemicals. The ink is easy to mix and use, and it works well on most fabrics, making it a solid choice for both beginners and pros.
Permaset Aqua
Permaset Aqua is one of the top water-based inks for those who want rich, deep colors. This brand is known for its durability and ability to maintain vibrant colors even after multiple washes. Permaset Aqua inks are also great for printing on darker fabrics, as they offer excellent opacity.
Permaset Aqua ink is ideal for larger prints and projects that require bold, solid colors. The ink gives prints a professional finish that looks great on cotton, linen, and other materials. It’s also eco-friendly, which makes it a great choice for those looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Ryonet’s Eco-Friendly Water-Based Ink
Ryonet is a trusted name in the screen printing world, and their eco-friendly water-based inks are no exception. These inks provide a soft finish and vibrant colors that are perfect for printing on apparel and other textiles. They are non-toxic and safe for both the user and the environment.
Ryonet’s Eco-Friendly Ink is easy to use and clean up. The inks are compatible with most fabrics and work well in both manual and automatic screen printing machines. Whether you’re printing shirts or bags, this ink provides a high-quality, long-lasting finish.
Aqua-Print by International Coatings
Aqua-Print from International Coatings is a great option for those who want fast-drying ink that still provides excellent color and durability. This water-based ink is ideal for multi-color prints and offers good coverage on both light and dark fabrics. Aqua-Print ink is also known for its high wash fastness, meaning your prints won’t fade easily after multiple washes.
This ink is non-toxic, eco-friendly, and perfect for both detailed work and larger prints. It works well on a variety of fabrics and provides a smooth, soft finish that is comfortable to wear.
How to Use Water-Based Screen Printing Ink
Using water-based ink in your screen printing process can be a little different from using plastisol ink, but it’s not too difficult once you get the hang of it. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use water-based ink for your projects:
Prepare Your Screen: Before you start printing, make sure your screen is clean and ready. You should also apply a stencil or emulsion to the screen if needed.
Mix Your Ink: Some water-based inks may need to be mixed with a reducer or thickener, depending on the fabric and design. Always follow the instructions on the ink label for the best results.
Set Up Your Printer: Place your screen onto the printer and align it properly with the material you’re printing on.
Apply the Ink: Pour the ink onto the screen and use a squeegee to push the ink through the mesh. Make sure to apply even pressure to ensure an even coat of ink.
Dry the Print: After printing, the ink needs to dry and cure. Some inks dry faster than others, so check the instructions. You may need to use a conveyor dryer or air dry your prints.
FAQs
1. Is water-based ink better than plastisol?
Water-based ink is generally considered better for the environment because it doesn’t contain harmful chemicals like plastisol. It also feels softer on fabric and works well for printing on light-colored materials. However, plastisol ink is better for dark fabrics and gives a thicker finish.
2. Can I use water-based ink on all fabrics?
Yes, water-based ink works on a wide range of fabrics, but it performs best on natural fibers like cotton. For synthetic fabrics, you might need a specific type of ink or an underbase.
3. How do I clean up water-based ink?
Cleaning water-based ink is easy. You just need to wash your tools and screen with water while the ink is still wet. Once the ink dries, it can be harder to remove, so it’s best to clean up right after use.
4. Does water-based ink fade after washing?
No, water-based ink is quite durable. As long as it is cured properly, it can withstand many washes without fading.
5. How do I get vibrant colors with water-based ink?
To achieve vibrant colors, you should use high-quality water-based ink, mix it well, and make sure your screen printing setup is working properly. The ink’s opacity and fabric choice also play a big role in how vibrant your prints will look.
6. Can I use water-based inks for multi-color prints?
Yes, water-based inks can be used for multi-color prints. Just make sure you’re using the right type of ink and that your screen is properly set up for multi-color work.
Keep This in Mind…
Water-based screen printing ink continues to gain popularity for its eco-friendly benefits and high-quality finish. With top brands like Speedball, Jacquard, and Permaset, there’s no shortage of great options for this year.
Maybe you’re a beginner or an experienced printer, these inks are sure to meet your needs and deliver fantastic results. So, when it comes to screen printing, consider going with water-based ink for a more vibrant, durable, and sustainable print.