Specialty Inks for Screen Printing: Plastisol & More | Ink Supply

Do you want to make shirts with cool designs? Then you need to learn about ink! Screen printing is a fun way to put pictures and words on shirts. But to do it right, you need the right ink. This article will teach you all about specialty inks, especially plastisol ink.

We’ll talk about what makes them special, how to use them, and where to buy them. Picking the right ink is super important. It can make your print look amazing and last a long time! If you would like to see even more options check out Flocking Plastisol Ink.

Why are Specialty Inks Important?

Think about your favorite shirt. Maybe it has a cool picture or a funny saying. That design was probably made with specialty ink. Specialty inks let us make shirts that are unique and interesting. People love shirts that show off their personality. Specialty inks help us do just that! They let us create prints that stand out from the crowd. A great specialty ink can really make a design pop. If you pick the right ink, your print will not only look great but also be strong and durable.

Plastisol Inks: The Most Used Kind

Plastisol ink is like the king of screen printing. It’s used more than any other kind of ink. Lots of printers love plastisol ink because it’s easy to use and gives great results.

What Makes Plastisol Special?

• What’s it made of? Plastisol is made from PVC resins and plasticizers. These are special chemicals that make the ink thick and strong.
• How does it dry? Unlike other inks that dry in the air, plastisol needs heat to dry. You have to put it under a heat press or in a dryer.
• Why is it so popular?
  • It’s easy to work with: Plastisol is thick, so it doesn’t run or spread easily. This makes it great for beginners.
  • It has bright colors: Plastisol inks come in tons of colors, and they stay bright even after many washes.
  • It lasts a long time: Plastisol prints are very durable. They can withstand lots of wear and tear.
• What are the downsides?
  • It can feel stiff: Some people don’t like the way plastisol prints feel on shirts. They can be a little stiff or rubbery.
  • It’s not great for the environment: Plastisol contains chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Some people are looking for more eco-friendly options.

What Can You Print with Plastisol?

Plastisol is very versatile. You can use it to print on all sorts of things:

• T-shirts: This is the most common use for plastisol. It works great on cotton and polyester shirts.
• Hoodies: Plastisol also works well on hoodies and sweatshirts.
• Flat items: You can even use plastisol to print on flat things like bags, posters, and banners.

Other Kinds of Specialty Inks

Plastisol isn’t the only ink out there. There are lots of other specialty inks that can create unique effects.

Water-Based Inks

These inks are made with water instead of chemicals.

• What’s so good about them?
  • They’re soft: Water-based prints feel very soft and comfortable on shirts.
  • They’re eco-friendly: Water-based inks are much better for the Earth than plastisol.
• What are the downsides?
  • They’re harder to use: Water-based inks can be tricky to work with. They dry quickly, so you have to be fast.
  • They’re not as bright: Water-based prints aren’t always as bright and vibrant as plastisol prints.
• Who uses them? People who care about the environment love water-based inks. Also, people who want a super soft print often choose water-based inks.

Discharge Inks

These inks are used to remove the color from dark shirts.

• How do they work? Discharge inks contain a chemical that bleaches the dye out of the shirt. Then, the ink replaces the bleached area with a new color.
• What are they good for?
  • Soft prints: Discharge prints are very soft because they become part of the fabric.
  • Vintage look: Discharge inks create a cool, old-looking design.
• Who uses them? Designers who want a retro or vintage style often use discharge inks.

UV-Curable Inks

These inks dry very quickly when exposed to UV light.

• What’s so special about them?
  • Fast drying: UV inks dry almost instantly. This speeds up the printing process.
  • Durable prints: UV prints are very resistant to scratches and fading.
• What are they used for? UV inks are often used on hard things like plastic, metal, and glass.
• Who uses them? Companies that need to print things quickly and efficiently often use UV inks.

Fun Inks

There are lots of specialty inks that create fun and unique effects.

• Glow-in-the-dark inks: These inks glow when it’s dark. They’re perfect for Halloween costumes or concert shirts. You can find a wide selection of Glow In the Dark Plastisol Ink.
• Shimmer inks: These inks contain tiny glitter particles that make the print sparkle.
• Puff inks: These inks expand when heated, creating a raised, 3D effect. These are great when you want a Puff Plastisol Ink to add some texture.
• Reflective Inks: These inks are highly visible in low light conditions and are great for safety gear.
• Fluorescent inks: These inks can really make your designs pop and find the perfect Fluorescent Screen Printing Plastisol Ink.

Which Ink Should You Use?

Choosing the right ink can be tricky. Here’s a table to help you decide:

Besides what you want the final product to look like, you also need to think about cost. Some inks are much more expensive than others. And don’t forget about the Earth. Choosing an eco-friendly ink is a great way to do your part.

How to Use Specialty Inks

Knowing how to use specialty inks is just as important as choosing the right one. Each ink has its own special instructions.

Before You Print

• Pick the right screen: The screen is like a stencil that lets the ink through. You need to choose a screen with the right mesh size for your ink.
• Make sure the screen is clean: Any dirt or debris on the screen can mess up your print.
• Prepare your fabric: Make sure your shirt is clean and smooth. Iron it if necessary.

Printing

• Check the ink’s temperature: Some inks need to be a certain temperature to work properly.
• Don’t use too much ink: Too much ink can make your print blurry or smudged.
• Use even pressure: When you’re using the squeegee, apply even pressure to spread the ink across the screen.
• Cure Properly: Make sure you’re drying your prints for the proper time at the proper temperatures, check the manufacturers instructions for the exact guidelines.

If you don’t use the ink correctly, you can end up with problems.

Problems and Solutions

Even experienced printers run into problems sometimes. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:

• Problem: The ink peels off after you wash the shirt.
  • Solution: This usually means the ink wasn’t cured properly. Check the temperature of your heat press or dryer. You can also use an adhesive to help the ink stick to the fabric.
• Problem: The colors are not bright enough.
  • Solution: Use a base coat of white ink under your colors. This will help the colors pop. Also, make sure you’re using enough ink.
• Problem: The print is blurry or smudged.
  • Solution: You may be using too much ink or not enough pressure with the squeegee. Try adjusting your technique.
• Problem: Bubbles in the ink after printing.
  • Solution: This usually occurs when you are printing on synthetic material, make sure you stir the ink before printing.

It’s important to only mix the same brand of inks. You may encounter the issue of Ink Compatibility, if you do not mix inks properly.

Where to Buy Specialty Inks

There are lots of places to buy specialty inks, both online and in stores.

• Wilflex: This company is known for its high-quality plastisol inks.
• Green Galaxy: If you’re looking for eco-friendly inks, Green Galaxy is a great choice.
• Nazdar SourceOne: Nazdar SourceOne sells a wide variety of inks, including UV inks.
• Local art supply stores: Many art supply stores carry basic screen printing inks.
• Online retailers: Websites like Amazon and eBay also sell screen printing inks.

You can buy inks in big amounts or small amounts, depending on your needs.

Answers to Your Questions

Here are some common questions about specialty inks:

• Is plastisol ink safe for skin? Some plastisol inks are better for your skin than others. Look for phthalate-free plastisol.
• Can I print shimmer ink with any screen? No, you need a special screen with a larger mesh size to allow the glitter particles to pass through.
• How long does specialty ink last? Most inks last for about a year if stored properly in a cool, dry place.

Let’s Make Cool Prints!

Now you know all about specialty inks! You know why they’re important, what kinds there are, how to use them, and where to buy them. So go out there and pick the ink that’s right for you. Then, start making amazing prints! And check out Glow In The Dark Plastisol Ink for your next project.

Data and Cases

Let’s dive deeper into some numbers and stories about specialty inks. These real-world examples and statistics show the impact and importance of choosing the right ink for your screen printing projects.

This table provides valuable insights into the specialty inks market and consumer preferences. The data highlights the growing importance of sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and print quality in the screen printing industry. Remember to check out Fluorescent Screen Printing Plastisol Ink for designs that need to pop!

Specialty Inks: Market Size, Growth and Trends (Continued)

The market for specialty inks is not only large but also continuously evolving. This means that businesses in the screen printing industry need to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies to remain competitive.

The projected annual growth rate of 6.3% signifies a substantial increase in demand for specialized prints. This growth is driven by several factors, including the rise of e-commerce, the increasing popularity of personalized products, and the growing demand for sustainable printing solutions.

Plastisol currently dominates the market, but the growing popularity of water-based inks suggests a potential shift in consumer preferences. As environmental awareness continues to rise, more brands and consumers are likely to choose eco-friendly alternatives.

Plastisol Inks and Water-Based Inks (Elaborated)

While plastisol inks are still widely used, water-based inks offer several advantages, particularly in terms of environmental impact and print quality.

Plastisol inks are known for their durability and vibrant colors, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. However, they contain PVC resins and plasticizers, which can be harmful to the environment.

Water-based inks, on the other hand, are made from water and pigments, making them a more sustainable option. They also produce prints that are softer to the touch and more breathable.

Cost of Specialty Inks (Detailed Breakdown)

The cost of specialty inks can vary significantly depending on the type of ink, the brand, and the quantity purchased.

Plastisol inks typically range from $25 to $40 per gallon. This makes them a relatively affordable option for large-scale printing operations.

Water-based inks are slightly more expensive, costing between $35 and $60 per gallon. The higher cost is due to the more complex manufacturing process and the use of more expensive raw materials.

UV-curable inks are the most expensive, with prices ranging from $80 to $120 per gallon. The high cost is attributed to the specialized technology and equipment required to produce these inks.

Choosing the right ink involves carefully considering your budget and the desired quality and durability of your prints.

Sustainability is Key (Expanded)

The growing demand for sustainable products and practices is transforming the screen printing industry.

Many brands are now actively seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional plastisol inks. This shift is driven by a desire to reduce their environmental footprint and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Allmade Apparel’s success in reducing ink waste by switching to Wilflex Epic plastisol blends demonstrates that sustainable practices can also be cost-effective.

By adopting eco-friendly printing solutions, businesses can not only protect the environment but also enhance their brand reputation and attract new customers.

Global Adoption of Eco-Friendly Inks (Further Analysis)

The varying adoption rates of Oeko-Tex certified inks in Europe and the US highlight the differences in environmental regulations and consumer awareness across regions.

Europe has implemented stricter environmental regulations, which have incentivized businesses to adopt sustainable printing practices.

In the US, consumer demand for eco-friendly products is growing, but the adoption of sustainable printing practices has been slower.

As consumer awareness continues to increase, more US businesses are likely to embrace eco-friendly printing solutions.

The Growth of UV Inks (Detailed Explanation)

UV-curable inks are experiencing rapid growth due to their unique properties and benefits.

These inks dry almost instantly when exposed to UV light, which significantly speeds up the printing process. They also produce prints that are highly durable and resistant to scratches, fading, and chemicals.

UV-curable inks are widely used in the automotive and electronics industries, where high-quality, durable prints are essential.

Solving Printing Problems (Comprehensive Guide)

Proper curing is essential for achieving high-quality, long-lasting prints.

Under-curing can lead to peeling, cracking, and fading, while over-curing can damage the fabric and cause the ink to become brittle.

Using infrared dryers can help to ensure consistent and even curing, reducing the risk of printing problems.

Other common printing problems include:

• Bleeding: When the ink spreads beyond the intended area.
• Pinholing: When small holes appear in the print.
• Ghosting: When a faint image of the previous print appears on the current print.

By understanding the causes of these problems and implementing appropriate solutions, businesses can minimize waste and improve the quality of their prints.

What Customers Want (In-Depth Analysis)

Consumer preferences play a significant role in the screen printing industry.

The increasing demand for “soft-hand” water-based prints demonstrates that consumers value comfort and quality in their clothing.

By offering prints that are both visually appealing and comfortable to wear, businesses can attract a wider range of customers and build brand loyalty.

Choose the Right Ink (Strategic Decision)

Selecting the right ink is a strategic decision that can significantly impact the success of your screen printing business.

Consider the following factors when choosing an ink:

• The type of fabric you will be printing on.
• The desired look and feel of the print.
• Your budget.
• Your environmental concerns.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose an ink that meets your needs and helps you achieve your business goals. Always remember when choosing your speciality inks, do not forget to check out Reflective Plastisol Ink for reflective prints.

Extra Tips for Success

Optimizing for Your Specific Needs

• If you are printing primarily for kids, explore non-toxic options to ensure that your apparel meets safety standards.
• For athletic wear, focus on inks that offer flexibility and breathability.

Market Research

• Keep up with the fashion trends. Understanding what designs and colors are popular helps you choose inks that appeal to your target market.
• Survey your customers or check online forums to understand what ink properties they value most, such as softness, durability, or eco-friendliness.

Partnering with Suppliers

• Develop relationships with your ink suppliers to get early access to new products and technologies.
• Ask about training programs or workshops to enhance your knowledge and skills in specialty ink applications.

Let’s Make Cool Prints! (Final Encouragement)

With the knowledge and insights you’ve gained from this article, you’re well-equipped to create amazing prints using specialty inks. So go ahead, experiment with different inks, explore new techniques, and let your creativity shine!

By staying informed and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the screen printing industry, you can achieve long-term success and make a lasting impact with your prints.

Specialty inks allow for customization and unique design elements: Bright colors and durability are key attributes of high-quality plastisol inks: The specialty inks market growth indicates a rising demand for unique printed products: UV-curable inks are experiencing rapid growth due to their fast-drying and durable properties .