Can you use Plastisol Ink on Polyester?

Feasibility of Plastisol Ink Printing on Polyester

Plastisol ink printing on polyester is a common practice in the textile industry. This printing technique is feasible due to the unique properties of both plastisol ink and polyester fabric. Plastisol ink is a PVC-based industrial coating for textiles. It's known for its durability, vibrant colors, and high opacity, making it a popular choice for printing on various materials, including polyester. Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic fabric that's resistant to shrinkage and wrinkles, making it an ideal material for plastisol ink printing.

Is Plastisol Ink Printing on Polyester Advised?

Yes, plastisol ink printing on polyester is advised. This printing technique is widely used in the textile industry due to its numerous benefits. However, it's important to note that the success of this printing technique largely depends on the proper application of the ink and the correct curing of the print.

Pros of Plastisol Ink Printing on Polyester

There are several advantages of using plastisol ink for printing on polyester. Firstly, plastisol ink is known for its vibrant colors and high opacity, which results in clear and bright prints. Secondly, prints made with plastisol ink are highly durable and can withstand multiple washes without fading. Lastly, plastisol ink is easy to work with, as it doesn't dry out quickly and can be left on the screen for extended periods without causing any issues.

Cons of Plastisol Ink Printing on Polyester

Despite its numerous advantages, there are also some drawbacks to using plastisol ink for printing on polyester. One of the main issues is dye migration, which occurs when the dye in the polyester fabric bleeds into the plastisol ink, causing discoloration of the print. This issue can be mitigated by using a dye blocking underbase or choosing polyester fabrics that are less prone to dye migration. Another drawback is that plastisol ink is not eco-friendly, as it contains PVC and phthalates, which are harmful to the environment.

Better Printing Techniques for Polyester

While plastisol ink printing is a popular choice for polyester, there are other printing techniques that can also be used, depending on the specific requirements of the project. For instance, water-based ink printing is a more eco-friendly alternative to plastisol ink printing. Water-based inks are free from PVC and phthalates, and they provide a soft hand feel that's ideal for fashion garments. However, they require more care in the printing and curing process to ensure durability. Another alternative is sublimation printing, which is perfect for polyester and results in vibrant, durable prints. However, it's only suitable for light-colored fabrics.