One of the most versatile methods of affixing logos, text and other imagery to a product is screen printing. This method works with most any surface from tee shirts to thermos bottles. There are two types of colors used in this process; plastisol inks and water based screen printing ink.
The most commonly used type is plastisol. This formula is preferred for a lot of surfaces that are solid and inflexible. It is applied in thick layers and dries to a firm, rubbery consistency. Since there are no solvents included in this mixture, a heat source must be applied in order to complete the curing process.
Though substances such as petroleum may be used as co-solvents, water is the main solvent in the second formula. This medium cures as the liquid evaporates from the surface of the application, leaving only the printed design to firmly set on the material. Normally this process occurs slowly and at room temperature but a heat source such as a dryer, may be applied in order to complete the project a bit faster.
Several functional differences set the two types of inks apart from one another. There are quite a few advantages to choosing to work with the water-based medium over the plastisols. This is especially true when working with fabric items like sweatshirts, tees and hoodies.
The main reason the water-based type of pigment is preferred for items such as bolts of material, wallpapers or clothing, is because of the way it performs on these surfaces. The very nature of this medium allows it to blend in with the weave of the fabric and obtain a deeper adherence. Since it actually becomes one with the threads instead of sitting atop them, the feel of the design is literally softer to the touch.
When the colors blend into the fabric, it looks as though they were always meant to be part of the finished product. The softness of the design allows it to flex and bend without distortion as the item moves as it was intended. This makes them easier to wear and maintains the attractive appearance for a much longer period of time.
These types of inks do not use the thick application methods of the plastisols. They dry to a thin, smooth finish so there is no cracking and peeling when the item is put through it's intended routine. It moves naturally with the fabric and avoids that plastic iron-on feeling.
The pigments in this medium are stronger, richer and perfect for putting dark colors on lighter hued fabrics. They resist fading and the designs are long lasting. The smooth application makes this ideal ink for use in high speed machines that manufacture rolls of printed materials.
Projects using water based screen printing ink may take a little extra time to complete because the curing process is a bit slower. The medium should never be allowed to sit idly inside the frames while curing occurs because it will dry inside the mesh and completely ruin the screen. If using a product with petroleum co-solvents, be sure to utilize a cleaning system that is designed to handle the disposal of hazardous materials that may harm the environment.
The most commonly used type is plastisol. This formula is preferred for a lot of surfaces that are solid and inflexible. It is applied in thick layers and dries to a firm, rubbery consistency. Since there are no solvents included in this mixture, a heat source must be applied in order to complete the curing process.
Though substances such as petroleum may be used as co-solvents, water is the main solvent in the second formula. This medium cures as the liquid evaporates from the surface of the application, leaving only the printed design to firmly set on the material. Normally this process occurs slowly and at room temperature but a heat source such as a dryer, may be applied in order to complete the project a bit faster.
Several functional differences set the two types of inks apart from one another. There are quite a few advantages to choosing to work with the water-based medium over the plastisols. This is especially true when working with fabric items like sweatshirts, tees and hoodies.
The main reason the water-based type of pigment is preferred for items such as bolts of material, wallpapers or clothing, is because of the way it performs on these surfaces. The very nature of this medium allows it to blend in with the weave of the fabric and obtain a deeper adherence. Since it actually becomes one with the threads instead of sitting atop them, the feel of the design is literally softer to the touch.
When the colors blend into the fabric, it looks as though they were always meant to be part of the finished product. The softness of the design allows it to flex and bend without distortion as the item moves as it was intended. This makes them easier to wear and maintains the attractive appearance for a much longer period of time.
These types of inks do not use the thick application methods of the plastisols. They dry to a thin, smooth finish so there is no cracking and peeling when the item is put through it's intended routine. It moves naturally with the fabric and avoids that plastic iron-on feeling.
The pigments in this medium are stronger, richer and perfect for putting dark colors on lighter hued fabrics. They resist fading and the designs are long lasting. The smooth application makes this ideal ink for use in high speed machines that manufacture rolls of printed materials.
Projects using water based screen printing ink may take a little extra time to complete because the curing process is a bit slower. The medium should never be allowed to sit idly inside the frames while curing occurs because it will dry inside the mesh and completely ruin the screen. If using a product with petroleum co-solvents, be sure to utilize a cleaning system that is designed to handle the disposal of hazardous materials that may harm the environment.
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