Water-based Screen Printing (Eco-Friendly Option)
This way of printing can be a great option if you are thinking about starting a line of clothing and want to go down the route of “caring for the environment” and “Social Responsibility”.
Eco-friendly screen printing follows the same rules and processes as standard screen printing but the inks used are all water-based. The water-based inks are more eco-friendly as they are water-based but they’re also a lot harder to manipulate and work with due to the quick drying time.There can also be more wastage as the excess ink needs to be disposed of and can not be reused.
This printing option is an ideal combination with our Fairwear and Sustainable Clothing products from Continental Clothing.
Uses for Eco-friendly Screen Printing
Eco-friendly screen printing is a great option if you’re looking for fashion-style prints with a softer finish or if you are thinking of printing onto baby clothes as the inks are less chemical based than the standard Plastisol inks.
Please Note
Printed garments are more sensitive and need extra attention when it comes to washing.
Screen Printing Water Based Ink vs Plastisol
When comparing screen printing water based ink vs plastisol, the key differences lie in the composition, feel, and environmental impact of the inks. Water based ink used in eco friendly screen printing soaks into the fibres of the fabric, creating a soft, breathable finish that feels like part of the garment. This makes water based screen printing ink ideal for retail-quality prints and fashion-forward brands. In contrast, plastisol ink sits on top of the fabric, resulting in a thicker print with a slightly rubbery texture.
One of the biggest advantages of using eco friendly inks screen printing is their low environmental impact. Water based fabric screen printing ink and eco screen printing ink are free from harmful PVCs and phthalates, making them a safer choice for both people and the planet. Curing water based screen printing ink typically requires higher heat or longer dwell times than plastisol, but the result is a premium-quality, long-lasting print that aligns with sustainable values.
For businesses committed to sustainability, choosing eco screen printing and partnering with eco friendly screen printing companies like Garment Printing ensures you get top-quality results while minimising environmental harm. Whether you're looking for fashion merchandise or branded apparel, water based printing ink is the ideal solution for ethical and impactful ink screen printing.
Additional Screen Printing Techniques
Explore a variety of innovative screen printing enhancements designed to elevate your custom garments beyond the ordinary. Whether you're launching a fashion line, outfitting a team, or creating merchandise that turns heads, these specialty techniques offer unique finishes and creative textures that help your designs truly stand out. Each method offers distinct visual and tactile effects, providing powerful ways to reflect your brand identity, personality, or aesthetic vision. Dive into the options below to discover which technique aligns best with your goals.
More Printing Techniques
Looking for even more ways to customise your garments? Our extended range of printing options gives you the flexibility to achieve exactly the look and feel you’re after—whether it's bold and eye-catching, soft and subtle, or premium and polished. From small runs to large-scale orders, these techniques are tailored to suit different materials, budgets, and creative visions. Explore the full range below to find the best fit for your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is water-based screen printing ink eco-friendly?
Yes, water-based screen printing ink is considered eco-friendly. Unlike traditional plastisol inks, water-based inks do not contain harmful PVCs or phthalates. They soak into the fabric rather than sitting on top, making them a safer and more sustainable choice for both people and the environment.
Q: What is the most eco-friendly printing method?
Water-based screen printing is widely regarded as one of the most eco-friendly methods. It uses water-soluble inks that are free from harsh chemicals, resulting in less environmental impact during production and post-use. Combined with sustainable garments, it’s ideal for ethical and responsible printing.
Q: Is screen printing eco friendly?
Screen printing can be eco-friendly - especially when using water-based or discharge inks instead of plastisol. The environmental impact depends on the inks and materials used, as well as the waste management practices in place. At Garment Printing, we offer eco-conscious screen printing solutions for environmentally responsible projects.
Q: What is the most eco-friendly printing ink?
Water-based inks are the most eco-friendly printing inks available. They are free from harmful chemicals and heavy metals and can be safely used on clothing without compromising on quality or softness. These inks offer a breathable, long-lasting finish that aligns with sustainable values.
Q: What is water based screen printing?
Water based screen printing is a method that uses inks made primarily from water rather than plastic or petroleum-based compounds. These inks soak into the fabric rather than sitting on top, resulting in a softer, breathable finish.
Q: Why use water based screen printing ink?
Water based eco friendly screen printing ink is made without harsh chemicals, reducing environmental impact. The ink absorbs into the fibres for a lightweight, breathable finish and delivers rich colours, especially on lighter garments.
Our Water-based Screen Printing Gallery
