The Pros and Cons of Water based Inks

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When it comes to screen printing designs onto t-shirts and other apparel, there are a variety of ink types to choose from. One of these is water-based ink, a mixture of water, pigments, and a binder. Water-based ink offers unique advantages and disadvantages, making it important for us here at Shirts Like Mine to carefully consider before deciding whether to use it.


Pros of Water-Based Ink:

  1. Environmentally Friendly: Water-based ink is considered to be more environmentally friendly than other types of ink. It contains no harmful chemicals and is biodegradable.
  2. Soft Feel: Water-based ink is known for its soft feel, making it an ideal choice for printing designs on apparel that will be worn close to the skin.
  3. Suitable for a Wide Range of Fabrics: Water-based ink can be used on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
  4. Great for Detailed Designs: Water-based ink produces a high level of detail and sharpness in designs. This makes it an ideal choice for printing intricate or complex designs.

Cons of Water-Based Ink:

  1. Not as Durable: Water-based ink is not as durable as other types of ink, such as plastisol ink. It is more prone to fading, cracking, and peeling, especially after multiple washes.
  2. Longer Drying Time: Water-based ink takes longer to dry than other types of ink. This can slow down the printing process and may require the use of a heat gun or dryer to speed up the drying time.
  3. More Challenging to Work With: Water-based ink can be more challenging to work with than other types of ink. It requires more expertise and special equipment to get the desired results.
  4. More Expensive: Water-based ink is typically more expensive than other types of ink. This can make it less appealing for businesses with a tight budget.

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