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What is plastisol screen printing?

Plastisol screen printing is an increasingly popular method of producing graphics for custom apparel. Plastisol is a type of PVC-based ink that is cured to a solid, opaque finish when subjected to heat. It is the most commonly used type of ink for printing on t-shirts and other garments, and is an incredibly versatile medium for creating beautiful, high-quality prints.

In this article, we’ll explore what plastisol screen printing is, how it works, and the benefits of using this type of printing over other methods. We’ll also discuss the different types of plastisol inks available, the importance of proper curing, and some considerations to keep in mind when using plastisol screen printing.

What is plastisol screen printing?

Plastisol screen printing is a printing process that uses a mesh screen to transfer a design onto a garment. The mesh screen is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion, which is then exposed to a light source. This hardens the emulsion, leaving behind a stencil of the desired design. Ink is then forced through the mesh screen, transferring the design onto the garment. The design is cured with heat, which solidifies the ink, creating a durable and vibrant finish.

Plastisol is the most commonly used ink for screen printing garments. It is a PVC-based ink that is available in a variety of colors and finishes. It is a thicker ink than other types of screen printing inks, allowing for sharper detail and vibrant colors. It is also a more durable ink, making it ideal for printing on garments that will be washed and worn repeatedly.

How does plastisol screen printing work?

Plastisol screen printing is a relatively simple process. First, a stencil of the desired design is created on a mesh screen. The screen is then prepped with a light-sensitive emulsion, which hardens when exposed to a light source. The emulsion acts as a barrier, allowing ink to pass through the mesh but not the other way around.

Once the emulsion has hardened, the screen is placed on top of a garment. Ink is then forced through the mesh screen, transferring the design onto the garment. The ink is then cured with heat, which solidifies the ink and creates a durable finish.

Benefits of plastisol screen printing

Plastisol screen printing is an incredibly popular choice for custom apparel due to its many advantages. For starters, plastisol is easy to work with and is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. It is also a thicker ink than other types of inks, allowing for sharper detail and vibrant colors.

Plastisol is also a durable ink, making it ideal for printing on garments that will be washed and worn repeatedly. Additionally, plastisol is a versatile medium that can be used to create a wide range of graphic effects, including allover prints, distressed prints, and simulated process prints.

Different types of plastisol inks

Plastisol inks come in a variety of different types, each offering its own unique benefits. Standard plastisol inks are the most commonly used type of ink for screen printing garments. These inks are opaque, offering a bright and vibrant finish.

Transparent plastisol inks are also available, which are ideal for printing on darker colored garments. These inks allow for more subtle, muted colors and a softer finish. Discharge plastisol inks are also available, which are designed to replace the dye in a garment, resulting in a softer, more natural look.

Curing plastisol inks

Once a design has been printed using plastisol inks, it must be properly cured. Curing is the process of using heat to solidify the ink, creating a durable and vibrant finish. The type of curing equipment and temperature used will depend on the types of inks being used and the type of garment being printed on.

It is important to use the correct curing temperatures and times to ensure the ink is properly cured. If the ink is not cured properly, it may not adhere to the garment properly and may not be as durable as it should be.

Considerations when using plastisol screen printing

When using plastisol screen printing, there are several factors to consider. First, it is important to use a high-quality mesh screen that is properly tensioned. Poorly tensioned screens can cause ink to leak, resulting in poor print quality. Additionally, it is important to use the correct type and viscosity of ink for the design being printed.

It is also important to use the correct curing temperatures and times to ensure the ink is properly cured. Finally, it is important to use the correct type of emulsion for the mesh screen being used. Different mesh sizes require different types of emulsions, so it is important to use the correct type to ensure the ink is properly transferred to the garment.

Conclusion

Plastisol screen printing is an incredibly popular and versatile method of producing custom apparel. It is a durable and vibrant ink that is available in a wide variety of colors and finishes. It is also a thicker ink than other types of inks, allowing for sharper detail and vibrant colors. Additionally, plastisol is a versatile medium that can be used to create a wide range of graphic effects.

When using plastisol screen printing, it is important to use the correct mesh screen, emulsion, ink, and curing temperatures to ensure the best results. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the different types of plastisol inks available and to choose the appropriate type for the design being printed. With proper preparation and care, plastisol screen printing can result in beautiful and durable prints that will last for years to come.