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Home  >  Catalogue

By Aisha - 6 min read

Water Based Ink vs. Plastisol Ink: What's the Difference?

When it comes to screen printing, the ink you use makes all the difference. It’s not just about color—it’s about how the design feels on the fabric, how it holds up over time, and how it fits the specific look and use you’re going for. That’s where the choice between water-based and plastisol inks comes into play.

 

Water-based inks are known for their smooth, lightweight finish, while plastisol inks are perfect for creating bold, vibrant designs that stand out. Both have their strengths, and the right choice really depends on what you need.

 

At Yes We Print, we’ve worked with both inks for years and know how to match the right option to every project. Whether you’re after something soft and subtle or bright and durable, we’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.

What Are Water-Based Inks?

Water-based inks are a popular choice in screen printing because they actually soak into the fabric rather than sitting on top of it. This creates a smooth, natural finish that feels almost as if the design is part of the fabric itself.

 

What Are They Made With?
Water-based inks are made using water as their primary solvent, which is what gives them their eco-friendly edge. Unlike plastisol inks, they don’t rely on harmful chemicals or PVC. Instead, they use water, pigments, and binders to create vibrant and durable prints that are better for both people and the planet.

 

Best For:
These inks work beautifully on light-colored fabrics, delivering breathable prints that are perfect for those who value comfort. They’re also a go-to for eco-conscious customers since they’re made with fewer chemicals compared to other ink options.

Pros of Water-Based Inks:

  • Soft, Lightweight Feel: You’ll barely notice the print on the fabric—it’s that smooth.
     
  • Eco-Friendly: Fewer chemicals mean a greener choice for the environmentally aware.
     
  • Perfect for Fine Details: If your design has intricate patterns or text, water-based inks make every detail stand out.

Cons of Water-Based Inks:

  • They work best on specific fabric types, so not every material will give you optimal results.
     
  • To ensure they last, water-based prints might need a little extra curing time during production.

 

At Yes We Print, we know how to make the most of water-based inks, ensuring your designs look fantastic and feel even better. If you’re aiming for a soft, breathable, eco-friendly finish, this could be the perfect choice for your project!

What Are Plastisol Inks?

Plastisol inks are a favorite in screen printing for their versatility and ability to create bold, vibrant prints. Instead of soaking into the fabric like water-based inks, plastisol sits on top, giving designs a crisp and clear look.

 

What Are They Made With?
Plastisol inks are made from PVC (polyvinyl chloride) combined with plasticizers. This unique formula gives them their durability and vibrant finish, making them a reliable option for a wide range of printing needs.

 

Best For:
Plastisol inks are ideal for printing on dark fabrics, creating durable prints, and producing graphics with bright, vivid colors. They’re a dependable choice for projects that need long-lasting results.

Pros of Plastisol Inks:

  • Bright, Consistent Colors: Perfect for designs that need clear and defined visuals, even on dark materials.
     
  • Highly Durable: These prints hold up through frequent use and repeated washes.
     
  • Works Across Fabrics: Suitable for cotton, polyester, and blends without compromising quality.

Cons of Plastisol Inks:

  • The print can feel slightly thicker on the fabric, which may not appeal to everyone.
     
  • Plastisol inks aren’t as environmentally friendly due to their PVC base, but they’re widely used for their reliability.

 

At Yes We Print, we know how to make the most of plastisol inks to ensure your designs look vibrant and last for years. Whether it’s a graphic for a team uniform or a detailed logo for a promotional item, plastisol is a solid choice for results you can trust.

Water-Based vs. Plastisol: Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Ink Should You Choose?

This is the fun part—deciding which ink will make your project exactly what you want it to be! Both water-based and plastisol inks are incredible in their own way, so let’s figure out what fits best.

Go for Water-Based Ink If:

  • You love soft and breathable prints. Water-based ink feels smooth and lightweight, making it perfect for designs that blend seamlessly with the fabric.
     
  • You care about being eco-friendly. With fewer chemicals and a more natural finish, water-based inks are the greener choice that’s kind to the environment and still delivers beautiful results.

Choose Plastisol Ink If:

  • You need bright, vibrant colors. Plastisol is unbeatable for creating bold, high-impact designs, especially on darker fabrics where other inks might struggle.
     
  • Durability is non-negotiable. If your design has to hold up to wear and tear—whether it’s for work, sports, or everyday use—plastisol is the tough and reliable choice.

 

At Yes We Print, we make it simple to get exactly what you need. Whatever your project, we’ll help you choose the right ink and deliver results you’ll love. Ready to get started? Let’s make it happen! 💪

Which Ink Should You Choose?

Get ready because this is going to be FUN! At Yes We Print, we’re not just about putting ink on things—we’re about making the whole experience exciting, easy, and downright awesome for YOU. Here’s why you’ll absolutely love working with us:

 

1. Ink Wizards Who Know It All: Whether it’s water-based or plastisol, we’ve got the expertise to nail your vision. Want something smooth, breathable, and eco-friendly? Boom, water-based is your answer. Need those bold, bright, and extra-durable prints? Plastisol is our jam. We know every trick in the book, and we’re here to make your ideas look their absolute BEST.

 

2. It’s All About YOU: No generic solutions here—everything we do is customized to fit what you want. From soft, subtle designs to eye-popping, high-impact prints, we tailor every project to perfection. You have an idea? We make it happen, exactly how you imagined it (maybe even better).

 

3. Speedy AND Free? Yes, Please!: Who wants to wait forever for their order? Not you. We work fast—like, REALLY fast—to make sure your prints are done and delivered before you even have time to stress. Oh, and delivery? It’s FREE. Yes, free. Always.

 

4. Your Happiness = Our Mission: We’re a little obsessed with making you happy. Balancing quality, style, and your budget? We’ve mastered that. You won’t have to settle for anything less than perfect because we won’t stop until everything’s just right.

 

So, are you ready to work with the most fun, passionate, and dedicated printing team ever? At Yes We Print, we make the process just as awesome as the final result. Let’s get started! 🎨✨

Conclusion

Water-based or plastisol—whatever ink you choose, it’s about getting the results you want, done right. At Yes We Print, we bring the expertise, precision, and care to make sure your project looks and feels exactly how you imagine.

 

Ready to get started? Contact us today! 🎉

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