Why Water-Based Inks Are the Future of Screen Printing
When it comes to screen printing, one of the biggest choices you’ll make is whether to use water-based inks or plastisol inks. At Vektor, we’re passionate about helping brands get the very best from their print runs - and more and more, that means recommending water-based inks.
What Are Water-Based Inks?
Water-based inks are exactly what they sound like: inks that use water as the main solvent. Unlike plastisol, which is PVC-based, these inks soak into the fibres of the garment instead of sitting on top of the fabric. The result? A softer, breathable finish that feels just as good as it looks.
The Benefits of Water-Based Screen Printing
Soft, Retail-Quality Feel
Water-based inks penetrate the fabric, leaving a smooth, soft print that’s perfect for premium brands and fashion lines.
Eco-Friendly Choice
With no PVC and fewer harmful chemicals, water-based inks are a more sustainable option for brands who care about their environmental impact.
Breathable and Comfortable
Because the print bonds with the fabric rather than forming a plastic layer on top, garments stay lightweight and comfortable - even after multiple washes.
Ideal for Detail
Water-based inks can capture fine details and create a flat, professional look that elevates your brand’s aesthetic.
Things to Consider
While water-based inks are fantastic for most projects, they’re not always the best fit for every design. On darker fabrics, for example, achieving vibrant opacity can be a challenge. In those cases, plastisol or hybrid techniques might be more suitable.
That’s why we’ll always walk you through the pros and cons of each ink type before starting your print run.
Water-Based Inks vs Plastisol Inks
Both inks have their place in screen printing. If you’re after vibrant colours, high opacity, or printing onto darker garments, plastisol might still be the right choice. But if you want a soft, retail-quality, sustainable finish, water-based inks lead the way.
Why Choose Vektor for Water-Based Printing?
- We use GOTS-certified inks to ensure the highest environmental and quality standards.
- Every print run is quality checked and guaranteed to last.
- We’ve helped brands across fashion, music, and lifestyle sectors get the most from water-based inks.
Whether you’re launching a new merch range or refreshing your retail line, our team can help you bring your vision to life with the right ink and finish.
Ready to Print?
If you want a softer, more sustainable print for your brand, talk to us about water-based inks.