Top 10 Best Plastisol Inks for Superior Screen Printing Results
Discover the top-rated plastisol ink for screen printing that delivers vibrant colors, excellent opacity, and superior adhesion on various substrates.
When it comes to screen printing, the choice of ink can make all the difference. While there are various types of inks available, plastisol is one of the most popular choices due to its versatility and durability. Plastisol ink is a type of screen printing ink that is made of PVC particles suspended in a plasticizer. It is known for its ability to produce bright, opaque colors that are long-lasting and resistant to fading and cracking. In this article, we will explore the best plastisol ink for screen printing and what makes it stand out from the rest.
One of the top performers in the plastisol ink market is the Union Ink Maxopake series. This ink is specifically designed for maximum opacity, making it perfect for printing on dark fabrics. The Maxopake series offers excellent coverage, even on difficult-to-print materials like nylon and polyester. What sets this ink apart from others is its low-bleed formula, which helps prevent the ink from bleeding through the fabric. Whether you are printing on t-shirts, bags, or other textiles, the Union Ink Maxopake series is a reliable choice.
If you are looking for an eco-friendly option, look no further than the Green Galaxy Fusion Series. This ink is made from plant-based materials and is free of harmful chemicals like Phthalates and PVC. Despite its eco-friendly composition, the Fusion Series delivers vibrant colors and excellent coverage. It also has a smooth texture that makes it easy to work with on the press. If sustainability is a priority for you, the Green Galaxy Fusion Series is the way to go.
For those who want to take their screen printing to the next level, the Rutland Crystalina series is an excellent choice. This ink features a unique shimmering effect that adds a touch of glamour to any design. The Crystalina series is available in a range of colors, including gold, silver, and bronze. The ink is also easy to work with, making it a favorite among screen printers who want to add some sparkle to their designs.
If you are looking for an ink that can withstand extreme temperatures, the Wilflex Epic Lava Ink is the one for you. This ink is specially formulated to resist heat up to 750°F, making it perfect for printing on items like oven mitts and BBQ aprons. The Epic Lava series also offers excellent color opacity and brightness, making it ideal for printing on dark fabrics. Whether you are a professional screen printer or a hobbyist, the Wilflex Epic Lava ink is a must-try.
Another top contender in the plastisol ink market is the International Coatings 700 series. This ink is known for its versatility and can be used on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends. The 700 series is also available in a range of colors, from bright neons to classic pastels. What sets this ink apart is its low-temperature curing process, which helps save energy and reduce production time. If you are looking for a reliable and cost-effective ink, the International Coatings 700 series is a great choice.
When it comes to high-performance inks, the Permaset Supercover range is a standout. This ink is made from 100% solvent-free pigments and is free from harmful chemicals like lead and phthalates. The Supercover range offers excellent coverage and opacity, making it perfect for printing on dark fabrics. It is also easy to use and has a smooth, creamy consistency that makes it perfect for fine detail work. If you want an ink that delivers both quality and sustainability, the Permaset Supercover range is the way to go.
If you are looking for an ink that can produce a soft, velvety finish, the Matsui Water-Based Ink is an excellent choice. This ink is made from water-based pigments and has a low-odor formula that makes it safe to use in enclosed spaces. The Matsui Water-Based Ink delivers vibrant colors and excellent coverage, making it perfect for printing on light-colored fabrics. It also has a soft hand feel that is comfortable to wear. If you are looking for an eco-friendly, soft-touch ink, the Matsui Water-Based Ink is the one for you.
For those who want an ink that can produce a high-gloss finish, the Union Ink Gloss Plus Series is a great option. This ink is specially formulated to produce a glossy, wet look that adds depth and dimension to any design. The Gloss Plus Series is available in a range of colors, from bright primaries to rich metallics. It is also easy to work with and has a smooth texture that makes it perfect for fine detail work. If you want an ink that can make your designs pop, the Union Ink Gloss Plus Series is the way to go.
If you are a beginner screen printer, the Rutland M3 Series is a great place to start. This ink is designed with ease of use in mind and is perfect for those who are new to screen printing. The M3 Series offers excellent coverage and is suitable for printing on a wide range of fabrics. It also has a low-bleed formula that helps prevent ink from bleeding through the fabric. The M3 Series is available in a range of colors, making it easy to find the perfect shade for your design. If you are just starting out in screen printing, the Rutland M3 Series is a great choice.
Finally, if you are looking for an ink that can produce a soft, vintage look, the One Stroke Inks Softhand Series is the one for you. This ink is specially formulated to produce a soft, worn-in finish that is perfect for vintage-inspired designs. The Softhand Series is available in a range of colors and has excellent coverage. It is easy to work with and has a smooth texture that makes it perfect for fine detail work. If you want an ink that can produce a unique, vintage look, the One Stroke Inks Softhand Series is a great choice.
Introduction
Screen printing is a popular method of printing designs on textiles and other surfaces. The process involves using a stencil and a screen to apply ink onto the surface. One of the most commonly used inks for screen printing is plastisol ink. Plastisol ink is a type of ink that is made up of PVC particles suspended in a liquid plasticizer. It is known for its durability and versatility. In this article, we will be discussing the best plastisol ink for screen printing.
Factors to consider when choosing a plastisol ink
When choosing a plastisol ink for screen printing, there are several factors that you need to consider. These include:
Opacity
The opacity of the ink refers to its ability to block out the color of the fabric underneath it. This is an important factor to consider when printing on dark fabrics. You want an ink that is opaque enough to provide good coverage without the need for multiple layers.
Curing temperature
Plastisol ink needs to be cured at a high temperature to ensure that it adheres properly to the fabric. Different inks have different curing temperatures, so it's important to choose an ink that can be cured at a temperature that is appropriate for the fabric you are printing on.
Viscosity
The viscosity of the ink refers to its thickness. A thicker ink will require more pressure to push through the screen, while a thinner ink may bleed or spread too much. It's important to choose an ink that has the right viscosity for your particular printing setup.
Color range
The color range of the ink is also an important consideration. Some inks offer a wider range of colors than others, which can be useful if you need to print a specific design that requires a particular shade or hue.
Top plastisol inks for screen printing
Now that we've covered the factors to consider when choosing a plastisol ink, let's take a look at some of the top options on the market:
1. Wilflex Epic Ink
Wilflex Epic Ink is a popular choice among screen printers. It offers excellent opacity and vibrant colors, and can be cured at a relatively low temperature (around 320 degrees Fahrenheit). It also has a wide range of colors to choose from, making it a versatile option for many different types of printing jobs.
2. Union Ink
Union Ink is another great option for screen printing. It is known for its high opacity and durability, making it a good choice for printing on dark fabrics. It also has a low curing temperature (around 290-300 degrees Fahrenheit), which can help to reduce production time and energy costs.
3. Rutland Ink
Rutland Ink is a well-respected brand in the screen printing world. Their inks offer excellent color range and opacity, and can be cured at a relatively low temperature (around 280-300 degrees Fahrenheit). They also offer specialty inks, such as metallic and glow-in-the-dark, which can add an extra touch of creativity to your designs.
4. International Coatings Ink
International Coatings Ink is a popular choice for those who prioritize eco-friendliness. Their inks are phthalate-free and PVC-free, making them safer for both the environment and for those who handle them. They also offer good opacity and color range, and can be cured at a relatively low temperature (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit).
5. Matsui Ink
Matsui Ink is a Japanese brand that is known for its high-quality inks. They offer excellent color range and opacity, and their inks are easy to work with. They can be cured at a relatively low temperature (around 275-300 degrees Fahrenheit), which can help to reduce energy costs and production time.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plastisol ink for your screen printing setup is important if you want to achieve high-quality results. Consider factors such as opacity, curing temperature, viscosity, and color range when making your decision. Ultimately, the best ink for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. The brands and options we've discussed in this article are all great choices to consider.
What is Plastisol Ink and Why is it Popular for Screen Printing?
Plastisol ink is a type of ink used in screen printing, which is made up of PVC particles suspended in a liquid plasticizer. It is thick, opaque, and can be applied to a variety of materials such as cotton, polyester, and blends. Plastisol ink is popular for screen printing due to its versatility, durability, and ability to create vibrant prints on both light and dark fabrics.One of the reasons why plastisol ink is so popular is because it is easy to use and can be printed on a wide range of materials. It is also highly durable, making it ideal for printing on garments that will be subject to frequent washing and wear. Additionally, it is relatively inexpensive compared to other types of inks, making it an attractive option for screen printers of all sizes.Top Brands of Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing
There are many different brands of plastisol ink available on the market today, each with their own unique properties and advantages. Some of the top brands of plastisol ink for screen printing include:1. Rutland Plastisol Ink
Rutland is a leading manufacturer of plastisol ink for screen printing, offering a wide range of options for printers of all skill levels. Their inks are known for their durability and vibrant colors, making them a popular choice for printing on both light and dark fabrics.2. Wilflex Plastisol Ink
Wilflex is another popular brand of plastisol ink for screen printing, known for their high-quality inks that produce bright, vivid colors. They offer a wide range of options for printers, including specialty inks for printing on unique surfaces.3. International Coatings Plastisol Ink
International Coatings is a well-respected brand in the screen printing industry, offering a range of high-quality plastisol inks that are both easy to use and produce excellent results. Their inks are known for their durability and versatility, making them a popular choice for printers of all levels.4. Union Ink Plastisol Ink
Union Ink is a trusted name in the screen printing industry, offering a range of high-quality plastisol inks that are known for their durability and vibrancy. They offer a wide range of colors and special effects, making them a popular choice for printers who want to create unique, eye-catching designs.Choosing the Right Plastisol Ink for Your Screen Printing Needs
When it comes to choosing the right plastisol ink for your screen printing needs, there are a few key factors to consider. These include:1. Type of Fabric
The type of fabric you will be printing on will have a significant impact on the type of ink you choose. For example, if you are printing on a dark fabric, you will need an opaque ink that will show up well. If you are printing on a light fabric, you may be able to use a thinner, more translucent ink.2. Color and Effect
The color and effect you want to achieve will also play a role in your choice of ink. Some inks are designed to create special effects such as metallic or glitter finishes, while others are better suited for creating bright, solid colors.3. Cure Temperature
The cure temperature required for the ink you choose will also need to be taken into consideration. Some inks require lower cure temperatures, which can be beneficial for printing on heat-sensitive materials, while others require higher temperatures for maximum durability.4. Production Volume
Finally, the volume of production you will be doing will also need to be considered. If you are printing large volumes of garments, you may want to choose an ink that is designed for high-production screen printing.Pros and Cons of Using Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing
While plastisol ink is a popular choice for screen printing, there are both pros and cons to using this type of ink. Some of the advantages of using plastisol ink include:1. Durability
Plastisol ink is highly durable and can withstand frequent washing and wear without fading or cracking.2. Versatility
Plastisol ink can be used on a wide range of fabrics, making it a versatile option for screen printers.3. Vibrant Colors
Plastisol ink produces bright, vivid colors that are sure to catch the eye.However, there are also some disadvantages to using plastisol ink, including:1. Environmental Impact
Plastisol ink is not environmentally friendly and can be harmful to both human health and the environment if not disposed of properly.2. Longer Drying Time
Plastisol ink takes longer to dry than other types of inks, which can slow down production times.3. Requires Heat Curing
Plastisol ink requires heat curing in order to set properly, which can be a challenge for printers who don't have access to the necessary equipment.How to Properly Cure Plastisol Ink for Best Results
Properly curing plastisol ink is essential for achieving the best results in screen printing. Here are some tips for curing plastisol ink:1. Use the Right Temperature
The temperature required for curing plastisol ink will vary depending on the ink you are using. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to ensure you are using the correct temperature.2. Check the Ink's Cure Time
Different inks will have different cure times, so it's important to check the manufacturer's recommendations before beginning the curing process.3. Use a Heat Press or Conveyor Dryer
In order to properly cure plastisol ink, you will need to use a heat press or conveyor dryer. These tools will ensure that the ink is heated evenly and thoroughly, which is key to achieving good results.Best Plastisol Inks for Dark Garments
Printing on dark garments can be a challenge, but there are some plastisol inks that are specifically designed for this purpose. Here are some of the best plastisol inks for dark garments:1. Rutland M3 Super Black
Rutland M3 Super Black is a highly opaque ink that is specifically designed for printing on dark fabrics. It produces a deep, rich black color that is sure to stand out.2. Wilflex Epic Lava Ink
Wilflex Epic Lava Ink is a versatile ink that can be used on both light and dark fabrics. It produces a metallic finish that is perfect for creating eye-catching designs on dark garments.3. International Coatings 7600 Series
International Coatings 7600 Series is a high-opacity ink that is ideal for printing on dark fabrics. It produces a bright, vibrant color that is sure to make your designs pop.Best Plastisol Inks for Light Garments
Printing on light garments requires a different type of ink than printing on dark garments. Here are some of the best plastisol inks for light garments:1. Rutland M3 Bright White
Rutland M3 Bright White is a highly opaque ink that is perfect for printing on light fabrics. It produces a bright, crisp white color that is sure to stand out.2. Wilflex Epic Top Score Ink
Wilflex Epic Top Score Ink is a versatile ink that can be used on both light and dark fabrics. It produces a bright, vibrant color that is perfect for creating eye-catching designs on light garments.3. International Coatings 7500 Series
International Coatings 7500 Series is a low-bleed ink that is ideal for printing on light fabrics. It produces a bright, vivid color that is sure to make your designs pop.Specialty Plastisol Inks for Screen Printing on Unique Surfaces
Sometimes, screen printers need to print on surfaces that are not made of fabric. Fortunately, there are specialty plastisol inks that are designed for this purpose. Here are some of the best specialty plastisol inks for screen printing on unique surfaces:1. Union Ink FlexCure
Union Ink FlexCure is a flexible plastisol ink that is ideal for printing on materials such as neoprene, nylon, and Lycra. It produces a durable, long-lasting print that will hold up well over time.2. Rutland HSA Clear Gloss
Rutland HSA Clear Gloss is a high-solids ink that is ideal for printing on hard surfaces such as glass, metal, and plastic. It produces a glossy, clear finish that is sure to impress.3. Wilflex Epic Armor Ink
Wilflex Epic Armor Ink is a high-density ink that is perfect for printing on materials such as leather and vinyl. It produces a thick, durable print that will hold up well over time.Best Plastisol Inks for High Production Screen Printing
Screen printers who are working on high-volume production runs need inks that can keep up with their pace. Here are some of the best plastisol inks for high production screen printing:1. Rutland M3 Low Bleed
Rutland M3 Low Bleed is a highly opaque ink that is ideal for printing on dark fabrics at high speeds. It produces a vibrant, long-lasting print that is sure to impress.2. Wilflex Epic Rio Ink
Wilflex Epic Rio Ink is a fast-curing ink that is perfect for high-speed production runs. It produces a bright, vivid color that is sure to catch the eye.3. International Coatings 7500 Series
International Coatings 7500 Series is a low-bleed ink that is ideal for high-speed production runs on light fabrics. It produces a bright, vibrant color that is perfect for creating eye-catching designs.Eco-Friendly Plastisol Ink Alternatives for Screen Printing
For screen printers who are looking for more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional plastisol ink, there are several options available. Here are some of the best eco-friendly plastisol ink alternatives for screen printing:1. Water-Based Ink
Water-based ink is a popular alternative to plastisol ink, as it is more environmentally friendly and produces a softer feel on the garment. It is also easier to clean up and does not require heat curing.2. Discharge Ink
Discharge ink is another eco-friendly alternative to plastisol ink. It works by removing the dye from the fabric, leaving a natural, soft feel. It can be used on both light and dark fabrics and produces a vintage look that is popular with many customers.3. Soy-Based Ink
Soy-based ink is a newer alternative to plastisol ink that is made from renewable resources. It produces a vibrant, long-lasting print that is both eco-friendly and cost-effective.In conclusion, there are many different types of plastisol ink available on the market today, each with their own unique properties and advantages. When choosing the right ink for your screen printing needs, it's important to consider factors such as the type of fabric, color and effect, cure temperature, and production volume. With the right ink and proper curing techniques, you can create high-quality, durable prints that will stand the test of time.The Best Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction
Plastisol ink is the most popular ink used in screen printing due to its durability and versatility. This type of ink is made of PVC particles suspended in a plasticizer, which is then cured with heat. Choosing the best plastisol ink for your screen printing business can be overwhelming, but this guide aims to provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision.Pros of Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing
1. Durability: Plastisol ink is known for its superior durability and can withstand multiple washes without fading or cracking.
2. Easy to use: Plastisol ink is easy to work with, making it ideal for beginners and professionals alike.
3. Vibrant colors: Plastisol ink produces bright and vibrant colors that are sure to catch the eye.
4. Versatility: Plastisol ink can be used on a variety of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
Cons of Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing
1. Environmental concerns: Plastisol ink contains harmful chemicals and can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.
2. Limited breathability: Plastisol ink can feel heavy on the fabric, limiting its breathability.
3. Longer curing time: Plastisol ink requires a longer curing time than other types of ink, which can slow down the printing process.
Table Comparison of Top Plastisol Inks for Screen Printing
| Brand | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rutland Ink | Excellent opacity, vibrant colors | Can be thick and difficult to work with, requires longer curing time | $50-$80 per gallon |
| Wilflex Ink | Reliable, easy to use, produces sharp prints | Can be expensive compared to other brands | $70-$100 per gallon |
| Union Ink | Wide range of colors available, produces soft prints | Can crack over time, requires longer curing time | $50-$80 per gallon |
Conclusion
Choosing the best plastisol ink for your screen printing business is crucial to producing high-quality and durable prints. While each brand has its pros and cons, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. Consider the factors mentioned in this guide when making your decision and experiment with different brands to find the one that works best for you.The Best Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing: A Comprehensive Guide
Thank you for taking the time to read our comprehensive guide on the best plastisol ink for screen printing. We hope that this article has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision when selecting the right plastisol ink for your screen printing needs.
As we’ve discussed, there are many factors to consider when choosing a plastisol ink. These include color range, opacity, durability, curing temperature, and ease of use. By weighing these factors against your own needs and preferences, you can select the perfect ink for your project.
We’ve also highlighted some of the top plastisol ink brands on the market, including Wilflex, Rutland, and Union Ink. Each of these brands offers a wide range of colors, finishes, and special effects to help you achieve your desired look.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when working with plastisol ink is that it requires proper curing in order to achieve maximum durability and wash-fastness. This typically involves heating the ink to a specific temperature for a certain amount of time. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper curing.
Another important consideration is ink viscosity. Depending on your printing method and substrate, you may need a thicker or thinner ink to achieve optimal results. Experimentation is key here, so don’t be afraid to try different ink formulations until you find the one that works best for you.
When it comes to color matching, plastisol inks can be a bit tricky. Because they are opaque, they can be difficult to match to a specific color swatch or Pantone number. It’s always a good idea to request ink samples from your supplier and test them on your substrate before committing to a full print run.
If you’re new to screen printing or just looking to improve your skills, we recommend taking a class or workshop to learn the basics. Screen printing requires a certain level of technical expertise and equipment, so it’s important to invest in quality tools and education to ensure success.
At the end of the day, the best plastisol ink for screen printing is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re printing t-shirts, posters, or other promotional items, there is an ink out there that can help you achieve your goals.
We hope that this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect plastisol ink. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to us. We’d love to hear from you!
Thank you again for visiting our blog, and happy printing!
People Also Ask About Best Plastisol Ink for Screen Printing
What is plastisol ink?
Plastisol ink is a type of screen printing ink that is made of PVC particles suspended in a plasticizing emulsion. It is known for its ability to print on a variety of surfaces and its durability.
What are the benefits of using plastisol ink?
There are several benefits of using plastisol ink for screen printing:
- It produces vibrant and opaque colors
- It provides excellent adhesion to most substrates
- It has a long shelf life and does not dry out easily
- It can be used for printing on light or dark fabrics
What is the best plastisol ink for screen printing?
Choosing the best plastisol ink for screen printing depends on various factors, including the type of fabric being printed on, the desired finish, and the printer's experience. However, some of the most popular brands of plastisol ink include:
- Rutland Ink
- Wilflex Ink
- Matsui Ink
- Union Ink
- International Coatings Ink
How do you cure plastisol ink?
Curing plastisol ink involves heating the printed garment at a specific temperature for a specific amount of time to ensure that the ink fully adheres to the fabric. The recommended curing temperature and time vary depending on the brand of ink being used. Typically, plastisol ink should be cured at a temperature of 320-350°F for 60 to 90 seconds.