Comparison of the characteristics of rubber ink and plastisol ink and practical knowledge on how to use them

When it comes to screen printing, choosing the right type of ink is crucial for achieving the desired results.
Two popular types of inks used in the industry are rubber ink and plastisol ink.
Each of these inks has its own unique characteristics, advantages, and practical applications.
Understanding how to use them effectively can help achieve professional finishing in any screen printing project.

Understanding Rubber Ink

Rubber ink, also known as water-based ink, is made primarily from water and is known for its eco-friendly properties.
This ink is commonly used when a soft feel to the print is desired.
Typically, rubber ink penetrates the fabric, making it a great option for garments where breathability is a priority.

Characteristics of Rubber Ink

Rubber ink offers an extremely soft hand, meaning prints feel smooth and soft to the touch.
It’s ideal for light-colored garments because the colors can appear vibrant on lighter fabrics.
One of the significant environmental benefits of rubber ink is its water-based composition, making it a more sustainable option compared to plastisol ink.

Rubber ink does not require heat curing and can air dry relatively quickly, though applying heat will speed up the drying process.
This ink is also known for being versatile, allowing for easy cleaning using water, which reduces reliance on harsh chemicals.

Best Practices for Using Rubber Ink

When printing with rubber ink, it’s crucial to consider the type of fabric.
It works best with cotton or similar fibers.
Pre-treating the fabric may be necessary to achieve vibrant colors, especially when printing on darker clothing.

Using a high mesh screen can help obtain crisper prints, as rubber ink tends to be thinner than plastisol ink.
It’s important to have a well-ventilated workspace since even water-based inks can produce fumes during the curing process.

Understanding Plastisol Ink

Plastisol ink is PVC-based, which grants it unique properties compared to rubber ink.
It is widely used for printing on t-shirts, bags, and other accessories due to its durability and bold colors.

Characteristics of Plastisol Ink

Plastisol ink is characterized by its thick consistency and ability to sit on top of the fabric rather than soaking into it.
This property provides a more opaque look, which is especially beneficial for darker fabrics.
Because of its composition, plastisol ink offers a bolder, more vibrant result on any color of fabric.

It requires curing under high heat (generally between 320°F to 330°F) to become permanent, making it less suitable for heat-sensitive fabrics.
This heat curing makes the print extremely durable and resistant to fading through multiple washes.

Best Practices for Using Plastisol Ink

Plastisol ink works best on fabrics like cotton or polyester, and it’s crucial to use a flash dryer or heat press to ensure proper curing.
Failure to completely cure the ink will result in cracking or peeling over time.

Since plastisol ink does not dry until cured, it’s possible to leave it on the screen for extended periods without worrying about it drying prematurely.
However, ensuring that the ink does not clog the mesh is important, and routine cleaning of screens is advised.
It is also recommended to use screens with larger mesh openings to accommodate the thicker ink.

Comparing Rubber Ink and Plastisol Ink

When deciding between rubber ink and plastisol ink, several factors should be taken into account.

Durability and Feel

Rubber ink provides a very soft feel due to its absorption into the fabric, but it may not stand up as well to repeated washings as plastisol ink.
On the other hand, plastisol ink offers superior durability, withstanding numerous washes while maintaining its vibrancy and form.

Environmental Impact

From an environmental viewpoint, rubber ink has a lower impact, being water-based and free of PVC.
Plastisol ink, while offering beneficial print durability, contains PVC and requires more chemicals for cleaning.

Application Suitability

For those looking to print on light-colored, breathable garments with an eco-friendly approach, rubber ink may be the best choice.
But if the need is for bright and bold prints on a range of fabric colors, withstanding the test of time, plastisol ink may be the favored option.

Conclusion

Both rubber ink and plastisol ink have unique characteristics that make them suitable for different screen printing applications.
Consider the priorities of the project: whether it’s environmental impact, color vibrancy, print softness, or durability.
By understanding how to effectively use both types of inks, you can make informed decisions that will best meet your printing needs and achieve top-quality results.
The key to success in screen printing is not only knowing your materials but also taking the time to test and perfect your technique.