Water Based Screen Printing

Water based screen printing delivers a soft, breathable finish that becomes part of the fabric rather than sitting on top of it. It's a popular choice for brands wanting a vintage, lightweight feel on their apparel.

Why Choose Water Based Ink?

• Soft, breathable finish — you feel the fabric, not the print
• No plastic-like texture, ideal for a vintage or premium look
• Eco-friendlier option compared to plastisol
• Great for lightweight and fashion-forward apparel

Considerations

Water based ink soaks into the fabric, so it works best on lighter-colored, natural fiber garments — it isn't as opaque as plastisol, so it's not always the best choice for dark fabrics or highly detailed multi-color designs.

FAQs About Water Based Screen Printing in Los Angeles

Is water based printing softer than plastisol?
Yes — water based ink soaks into the fabric for a soft, breathable feel with no raised texture.

Does water based ink work on dark shirts?
It can, but results are more vibrant on lighter fabrics since water based ink is less opaque than plastisol.

Is water based printing more eco-friendly?
Generally yes — water based inks tend to have a lower environmental impact than traditional plastisol inks.

How durable is water based printing?
It's very durable when properly cured, though the design becomes part of the fabric rather than sitting on top, so it may fade differently than plastisol over many washes.