How To Screen Print with White Ink

 

Ready to learn screen printing with white ink? 

Screen Printing is an age-old technique with the help of which fine quality and stunning designs can be created on a surface, be it metal or fabric. It may sound tricky initially, but once you get hold of the technique, you can create marvellous results in no time.   

Although plenty of color options are available here, we will be focusing on screen printing with white ink. From preparing your screen and selecting the suitable materials to applying the ink and achieving crisp, opaque prints, you'll equip you with the knowledge and skills to make your designs truly shine.   

In this guide, you'll walk through the step-by-step process and the right tricks and techniques for screen printing white ink. 

Why is White Plastisol Ink So Thick? 

White plastisol ink is notorious for its thick consistency compared to other colors. It is primarily because white ink requires a higher pigment concentration to achieve opacity on dark or colored substrates. The additional pigments and additives in white plastisol ink contribute to its increased thickness. The thicker nature of white ink can affect the flow and printability, requiring adjustments in printing techniques to ensure consistent and vibrant results. In addition, understanding why white plastisol ink is thick will help you adapt your approach and overcome potential challenges during printing. 

Tips & Tricks While Printing with White Plastisol Ink  

Ink Preparation: Before printing, thoroughly mix the white plastisol ink to ensure an even distribution of pigments and additives. It helps achieve a consistent and smooth print. 

Ink Modification: Adjusting the consistency of white ink can enhance its printability. If you find your ink is thick at some point, don't worry; here is a solution. Consider adding a curable reducer or extender to improve flow and reduce screen clogging. Conversely, if the ink is too thin, you can add a curable thickener to achieve the desired consistency. 

Multiple Layers: Printing various layers of white ink can significantly enhance its opacity, especially on dark or colored substrates. Allow each layer to dry before applying the next to prevent smudging and ensure crisp and vibrant prints

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Underbase Layer: Printing a flash or under a base layer of white ink before applying other colors can provide a solid foundation for vibrant prints. The under-base layer enhances the opacity of subsequent colors and helps achieve better color vibrancy. 

Screen Mesh Selection: Choosing the right screen mesh count is crucial when screen printing white ink. A higher mesh count, typically in the range of 156-195, allows for better ink flow and coverage, resulting in crisp and detailed prints.  

The Process of Screen Print with White Ink 

Artwork Preparation: Create or obtain your desired design and prepare it for screen printing. 

Screen Preparation: 

• Coat your screen with a light-sensitive emulsion. 

• Dry it in a light-safe environment. 

• Expose it to light with your artwork to create the stencil. 

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Setup and Registration: Mount the prepared screen onto the printing press or frame, ensuring precise alignment with registration marks for accurate placement and consistent results. 

Ink Preparation: Thoroughly mix the white plastisol ink until it achieves a smooth and consistent texture, free from any clumps or lumps that may affect the printing process. 

Printing: Position the substrate on the printing table or pallet, carefully place the screen on top, and apply firm and consistent pressure using a squeegee. This technique ensures proper ink transfer through the stencil onto the substrate, resulting in clear and vibrant prints. 

Multiple Layers and Undebased: Apply various layers of white ink, allowing each layer sufficient drying time before adding the next. If desired, start with an under-base layer before adding additional colors , enhancing the vibrancy and opacity of the final print. 

Curing: After printing, heat set the design using a conveyor dryer or heat gun, following the ink manufacturer's recommended curing time and temperature. This step ensures the ink properly bonds with the substrate, providing durability and washability to the finished product. 

In Short 

Screen printing with white ink opens up exciting possibilities for adding vibrancy and opacity to your prints. While it may initially present challenges due to its thick consistency, understanding the characteristics of white plastisol ink and implementing the proper techniques can help you overcome any obstacles. By carefully preparing your screen, selecting the appropriate mesh count, and properly mixing the ink, you'll be on your way to achieving crisp and professional results. Remember to consider multiple layers and an under base for enhanced opacity and ensure proper curing for durability. With practice and patience, you'll master the art of screen printing white ink and create stunning designs that truly shine. So, get ready to unleash your creativity and start printing with confidence!