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Not all screen printing inks are the same. The ink type your printer uses affects how your design looks, feels, washes, and lasts. At French Press Custom, we stock and use every major ink type — because different projects demand different solutions.
Here is a deep dive into the four main screen printing ink types and when to use each one.
Plastisol is a PVC-based ink that sits on top of the fabric and cures at approximately 320 degrees F. It is the most widely used screen printing ink in the world, and for good reason.
Standard pricing — plastisol is included in base screen printing quotes.
Water-based ink absorbs into the fabric fibers rather than sitting on top. It produces a much softer print with a "no feel" hand, especially on light-colored garments.
Add $0.50-1.00 per color per piece compared to standard plastisol.
Discharge ink chemically removes the dye from the fabric and replaces it with pigment. The result is a print that is literally part of the fabric — zero hand feel, zero raised texture.
Add $0.50-1.00 per color per piece compared to standard plastisol.
Puff ink is a plastisol-based ink with a foaming agent that expands when heated. The result is a raised, three-dimensional texture that adds visual and tactile interest.
Add $1.25-2.00 per puff ink location.
Contains reflective particles for a metallic sheen. Available in gold, silver, copper, and custom colors. Adds $2.00-4.00 per location.
Photoluminescent ink that charges in light and glows in darkness. Popular for events, concerts, and novelty items. Adds $1.00-1.50 per location.
A two-step process: print adhesive, then press metallic foil. Creates a mirror-like metallic finish. Adds $3.00-5.00 per location.
Extra-thick plastisol that creates a raised rubber-like texture. More precise than puff, with sharp edges. Popular for streetwear and premium brands.
Creates a soft, fuzzy texture similar to suede or velvet fabric. Novel tactile effect for premium applications.
| Feature | Plastisol | Water-Based | Discharge | Puff | |---------|-----------|------------|-----------|------| | Softness | 4/10 | 8/10 | 10/10 | 2/10 (raised) | | Opacity | 10/10 | 5/10 | 8/10 | 8/10 | | Durability | 10/10 | 7/10 | 9/10 | 7/10 | | Vibrancy | 10/10 | 7/10 | 7/10 | 8/10 | | Dark fabrics | Excellent | Poor | Excellent | Good | | Light fabrics | Excellent | Excellent | N/A | Good | | Cost | Base | +$0.50-1 | +$0.50-1 | +$1.25-2 | | Best for | Everything | Soft prints | Premium feel | 3D effect |
At French Press Custom, we often combine ink types on the same print:
Not sure which ink is right? Send us your design and we will recommend the best approach. Call (562) 758-5110 or request a free quote online.
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