Discuss the different plastisol, discharge and water based screen printing inks on the market. Share tips on getting the best results with the different ink manufacturers.
I have an order for bowling shirts. They are 60% Rayon and 40% Polyester. I'm assuming that the best ink to use on these materials would a water based instead of platisol. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Troy
What color is the material you are printing on? If white, then a normal plastisol will do. Otherwise, you should look into a poly low bleed plastisol due to the tendency of dye bleeding into the ink.
I often find that our customers combine print flexibility and surface smoothness in the definition of "soft-handedness".
Waterbased inks on dark garments (not including discharge systems) have to enable the same level of opacity for coverage that plastisol do.
As a result, "heaviness of feel" is the same, and is why companies like Matsui formulate HO-Series waterbased inks.
What tends to vary is the surface feel of a water-based hybrid acrylic ink vs. a PVC plastisol ink;
a more subtle smooth "latex" feel vs. a slight "rubbery" feel generally between the two.
We both know that ink deposit/thickness also has a considerable impact on that characteristic.
The Poly Undercoat Binder (Matsui 301 Series) does not need to be a thick barrier layer;
It's doing more to enhance adhesion, rather than blocking dye migration.
Note that poorly fixed dyes are somewhat enhanced by the plasticizers present in plastisol inks;
as a result, waterbased applications vary in the level of susceptability to dye migration.
Depending upon a clients ink curing system, we usually suggest a preliminary test to insure proper temp controls with either ink system.
After all is said and done though, if the need for waterbased ink is not necessary on synthetic surface job (i.e.- eco-friendly mandate),
it can be easier for a novice to employ plastisol the first time out.
Thanks to all for enduring this answer to Joe's excellent, but advanced question.
Thanks for the help. Once I use the low bleed poly via platisol, I should be able to use normal inks on that? What is the recomended screen mesh for a white ink on polyester blends? If I read correctly the Union Ink Site advises to use 230 for an underbase via thier Diamond White ink.
Last edited by BiGGraphics; October 6th, 2009 at 06:10 AM.
Proper Ink to use via Screen Printing. 
