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Best Water Based Ink For Screen Printing (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a versatile and eco-friendly ink option for screen printing, water-based ink may be just what you need. Unlike traditional plastisol inks, water-based inks are much softer on fabric, providing a more comfortable and natural feel. Additionally, they are more environmentally friendly as they do not contain harmful solvents or heavy metals.

Before purchasing water-based ink for screen printing, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, make sure the ink is compatible with your printing method and the type of fabric you plan on printing on. Additionally, consider the quality of the ink, as lower-quality options may result in washing out or fading over time. It’s also important to consider the color options and whether they meet your needs.

Are you tired of plastisol inks leaving a stiff and heavy feeling on your screen printed apparel? Water-based ink for screen printing is a great alternative that provides a more comfortable and environmentally friendly option. But with so many factors to consider, how do you know which ink is right for you? What are the best fabric types to use this ink on? How do you find high quality options? Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about water-based ink for screen printing.

10 Best Water Based Ink For Screen Printing

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for silkscreen printing on T-shirts, using a set of six colors in 4-ounce containers.
2
This product is ideal for drying dishes, wiping countertops and cleaning up spills in the kitchen.
3
The product is ideal for screen printing on various surfaces, including fabric, paper, cardboard, and wood.
4
The product is ideal for cleaning and reclaiming screens used in the screen printing process with various types of ink.
5
The product is ideal for screen printing with water-based standard ink and comes in a kit of 6-8oz ink bottles.
6
This product is ideal for screen printing on fabric, specifically for shirt printing.
7
The product is ideal for screen printing on fabric using plastisol and water-based ink with a pre-sensitized photo emulsion.
8
This product is ideal for screen printing on fabric with water-based inks and provides water-resistant results when processed with diazo.
9
It is ideal for silk screen printing with a water-based ink and features a comfortable wooden handle.
10
The product is ideal for creating screen prints on fabric using plastisol and water-based inks with the aid of a photo emulsion.
This product is ideal for silkscreen printing on T-shirts, using a set of six colors in 4-ounce containers.
This product is ideal for drying dishes, wiping countertops and cleaning up spills in the kitchen.
The product is ideal for screen printing on various surfaces, including fabric, paper, cardboard, and wood.
The product is ideal for cleaning and reclaiming screens used in the screen printing process with various types of ink.
The product is ideal for screen printing with water-based standard ink and comes in a kit of 6-8oz ink bottles.
This product is ideal for screen printing on fabric, specifically for shirt printing.
The product is ideal for screen printing on fabric using plastisol and water-based ink with a pre-sensitized photo emulsion.
This product is ideal for screen printing on fabric with water-based inks and provides water-resistant results when processed with diazo.
It is ideal for silk screen printing with a water-based ink and features a comfortable wooden handle.
The product is ideal for creating screen prints on fabric using plastisol and water-based inks with the aid of a photo emulsion.

1. Silkscreen Ink Set: 6 Colors For T-Shirts

This set of vibrant colors is a must-have for your next print project. It includes six colors that can be used as-is or mixed together to create a gamut of custom colors. The set comes with 4oz of each artist-recommended color, including Black, White, Red, Yellow, Blue, and Green inks. These easy mixing colors can help you create unique designs that stand out from the rest.

The water-based ink is easy to work with and delivers smooth, uniform coverage with no clumps, making it ideal for both beginners and pros. It is also ultra-low odor and can be easily cleaned up with soap and water. This ink is water-soluble, which helps in achieving consistent print results every time.

These inks are permanent after heat set, which means that they offer more long-lasting durability than a vinyl iron-on, plastisol, or chalk paint. They work great on a range of fabrics, including cotton, canvas, polyester, blends, linen, rayon, and other synthetics. Moreover, they also work well on paper and cardboard.

These colors are safe for use in the studio and classroom. All colors carry the AP Seal, which has been tested to be safe and non-toxic by the Arts & Creative Materials Institute. You can print with peace of mind, knowing that you are not putting your health at risk.

The inks are proudly manufactured in Statesville, NC, and have been formulated for over 75 years. The manufacturer strives for consistency and quality in every batch. Their dedicated Customer Service team is available to help with any part of the screen printing process.

Pros

  • Easy mixing colors to create a gamut of custom colors
  • Water-based ink is easy to work with and delivers smooth, uniform coverage with no clumps
  • Permanent after heat set, which means that they offer more long-lasting durability than a vinyl iron-on, plastisol, or chalk paint
  • Safe for use in the studio and classroom
  • Proudly manufactured in Statesville, NC

2. Blue Q Cheese Towel: Soft And Fun!

Introducing the delightful Cheese Dish Towel by Blue Q! Made from the finest quality soft and absorbent 100% cotton, this towel is perfect for all your kitchen needs. The screen-printed design features a vibrant wedge of Swiss cheese that will add a touch of whimsy to your kitchen decor. The water-based inks used in the printing process ensure that the design will stay vibrant through countless wash cycles. The towel is easy to care for, simply machine wash in cold water with like colors, and tumble dry on low or line dry. With every purchase of the Cheese Dish Towel, Blue Q donates one percent of the sale to hunger relief programs worldwide. So not only will you be adding a fun and functional accessory to your kitchen, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of people in need.

Upgrade your kitchen with the Cheese Dish Towel by Blue Q! This high-quality towel is made from 100% cotton and features a vibrant screen-printed design of a delicious wedge of Swiss cheese. The water-based inks used in the printing process ensure that the design will stay bright and colorful even after multiple washes. The towel is easy to care for, simply machine wash with like colors in cold water, and tumble dry on low or line dry. Plus, with every purchase of a Blue Q dish towel, one percent of the sale is donated to hunger relief programs worldwide. So not only will you be getting a fun and functional towel for your kitchen, but you'll also be helping to make a positive impact in the world.

Add a touch of whimsy to your kitchen with the Cheese Dish Towel by Blue Q! Made from high-quality, soft, and absorbent 100% cotton, this towel is perfect for all your kitchen needs. The screen-printed design features a vibrant wedge of Swiss cheese that will stay bright and colorful even after multiple washes, thanks to the water-based inks used in the printing process. The towel is easy to care for, simply machine wash in cold water with like colors, and tumble dry on low or line dry. Plus, with every purchase of a Blue Q dish towel, one percent of the sale is donated to hunger relief programs worldwide. So not only will you be adding a fun and functional accessory to your kitchen, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of people in need.

Pros

  • Made from soft and absorbent 100% cotton
  • Features a vibrant screen-printed design that stays bright after multiple washes
  • Easy to care for, simply machine wash and tumble dry
  • One percent of the sale is donated to hunger relief programs worldwide

3. Speedball Acrylic Screen Printing Ink, 32-Ounce, White

For professional screen printers, this brand is their go-to for high-quality screen printing inks. Available in a broad range of colors, these inks offer excellent working properties that make them a top choice for artists. With vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability every time, artists can create stunning prints with ease.

One of the biggest advantages of this brand is its unrivaled working time, which allows artists to print without worrying about the ink drying too quickly. These water-based, acrylic screen printing inks are ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard, making them perfect for a variety of projects. However, it should be noted that they are not recommended for use on fabrics.

Another advantage of these inks is that they are safe for use in the studio or classroom. They carry the AP Seal, which means that they have been tested and certified as non-toxic, making them a great choice for artists of all ages. Cleanup is also a breeze, as these inks can be easily cleaned up with soap and water.

Pros

  • Professional quality screen printing inks
  • Available in a broad range of colors
  • Offers vibrant colors, great coverage, and consistent workability
  • Unrivaled working time for easy printing
  • Water-based and ideal for printing on paper, wood, and cardboard
  • Safe for use in the studio or classroom
  • Carries the AP Seal
  • Easy soap and water cleanup

Cons

  • – Not recommended for use on fabrics

4. Led Screen Washout Booth For Silk Screening

The Screen Print Direct Screen Printing Washout Booth is the perfect solution for those in need of a new screen printing washout booth. This booth makes the process of reclaiming screens easier, faster, and cleaner. Its sleek all-black design adds a touch of style to any printer's shop.

Measuring 32" wide, 24" deep, and 64" tall, this vertical washout booth is compact and minimal in design, making it a space saver for your shop. The booth's interior measures 29" wide, providing ample space to work in. It comes with an opaque backing that can be purchased with or without an LED light attachment.

Constructed from recycled Polyethylene, this washout booth is built to last. It stands strong and durable on four legs that are held together with steel bolts, engineered to sit perfectly flat with no wobbling. You won't need to worry about stacking napkins under any of the legs.

This screen printing washout booth is also chemical resistant, so you can rest assured that it will stand the test of time against harsh chemicals. The booth is designed to be both durable and chemical resistant, making it a great investment for any printer.

The LED light attachment is perfect for reclaiming your screen printing screens. It allows you to see the smallest details of leftover emulsion or ink, resulting in almost brand new screens after every wash. With this booth, you'll find yourself reclaiming screens with ease and precision.

Pros

  • Sleek all-black design adds a touch of style to any printer's shop
  • Compact and minimal design saves space in your shop
  • Constructed from recycled Polyethylene making it durable and long-lasting
  • Chemical resistant for added durability
  • LED light attachment allows for precision when reclaiming screens

5. Ecotex® Water Based Standard Ink Kit For Screen Printing 6 – 8oz Ink Bottles By Screen Print Direct

This fabric printing ink set is perfect for a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends. Whether you're crafting, in school, or own a screen print shop, this ink will meet your needs. You can choose from kits that offer metallic, pastel, or primary colors, so you can customize your creations to your liking.

The ink produces a soft and vibrant finish that is permanent and long-lasting, ensuring that your designs will stay looking great for years to come. It's safe for home screen printing, so you don't have to worry about any toxic fumes, and it has a low odor.

Choose the fabric screen print ink that works best for you. This set is available in black, red, blue, white, green, yellow, brown, gold, and even pastels. Made in the USA, this ink is non-phthalate and CPSIA compliant.

Pros

  • Ideal for printing on a wide range of fabrics
  • Produces a touchable soft and vibrant finish
  • Permanent and meant to last
  • Non-toxic and safe for home use
  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Made in the USA and non-phthalate

6. Eco-Friendly Screen Ink For Black Shirts

Ecotex Water Based Ink is the perfect choice for artists and screen printers who want to create stunning prints with ease. This ready-to-use ink is specially formulated for silk screen printing and block printing, making it a versatile addition to your printing kit. Whether you're printing on fabric, canvas, wood, paper, or textiles, Ecotex Water Based Ink will help you achieve amazing results.

In addition to its ease of use, Ecotex Water Based Ink is also ideal for creating bold, eye-catching prints that will help your brand stand out from the competition. The ink's bright, crisp, and opaque colors are perfect for creating designs that are both vivid and memorable.

One of the best things about Ecotex Water Based Ink is that it's eco-friendly and safe to use. All of SPD's fabric printing inks are Non Phthalate, PVC Free, and Vegan, making them a great choice for anyone who wants to minimize their impact on the environment. Plus, because the ink is water-based, it's easy to clean up using the Ecotex Water Based Screen Cleaner.

For best results, try pairing Ecotex Water Based Ink with WR-Blue Emulsion. These two products work together seamlessly to create stunning prints that are sure to impress. And when it's time to clean up, use SPD's Emulsion Remover to wash away the emulsion and leave your screens looking like new.

All Ecotex printmaking ink is made right here in the USA and hand-scooped by SPD's finest. So if you're looking for a high-quality, easy-to-use ink that will help you create amazing prints, look no further than Ecotex Water Based Ink.

Pros

  • Ready-to-use and easy to print with
  • Produces bright, crisp, and opaque colors
  • Eco-friendly and safe to use
  • Made in the USA

7. Eco-Fab Screen Printing Emulsion – Deluxe Quart Size

This purple water-resistant screen printing emulsion is perfect for screen printers who like to mix water-based and plastisol silk screen ink. The emulsion is developed to withstand water and can handle repetitive squeegee passes, making it the finest emulsion screen printing choice. This ready-to-use emulsion comes pre-mixed with pre-sensitized water-resistant properties, so you don't have to worry about mixing it yourself. Use a good emulsion scoop coater to get clean and even coverage.

This emulsion is versatile and can be used with your favorite screen printing methods, from seasoned vets with a 6-station screen printing machine to those doing screen printing with kids. It's the perfect addition to your screen printing supplies.

This emulsion works with all exposure units, whether you're using an LED exposure light unit, DIY 500-watt halogen light set up, or an ultraviolet LED light. It exposes quickly and easily, giving you the freedom to create great prints.

All of our silkscreen emulsions are made in the USA and hand-poured by SPD's finest to ensure ultimate quality. So why wait? Add to cart now and experience the best in screen printing emulsion.

Pros

  • Water-resistant
  • Pre-mixed and ready to use
  • Versatile for different printing methods
  • Works with all exposure units
  • Made in the USA

8. Eco-Friendly Water Resistant Screen Printing Emulsion.

Ecotex's WR emulsion is a top-quality screen printing supply that offers exceptional ease of use. This emulsion comes with diazo, making it easier to mix and apply to your screen printing screens. It is fully compatible with all water-based screen printing inks, ensuring that you can use it with your favorite products. When used with your preferred silk screen printing kit, this emulsion is ultra-durable and can be cured with an emulsion exposure unit or a high-quality UV light. The emulsion scoop coater allows for clean and even coverage. Whether you are a beginner or an expert screen printer, this emulsion is perfect for all skill levels. It has a 12-month shelf life and is proudly made in the USA. The emulsion is highly water-resistant and durable, making it an economical addition to your silk screen shop. We highly recommend using emulsion remover and a pressure washer for best results.

Pros

  • Easy to mix and use
  • Compatible with all water-based screen printing inks
  • Ultra-durable when used with preferred silk screen printing kit
  • Perfect for all skill levels
  • 12-month shelf life
  • Highly water-resistant and durable
  • Economical addition to silk screen shop
  • Made in the USA

9. Techtongda 45cm(18") Water Based Wooden Handle(13cm) Silk Screen Printing Squeegee

The 65 Durometer Screen Printing Squeegees are a must-have tool for all hand printing and many machine applications. With a length of 18 inches (46cm) and a width of 4 inches, this squeegee is perfect for both graphic and textile applications. It is also known as a scraper, used to scratch the ink on the screen to make it leak to the substrate. The squeegee is made by the combination of a scratching strip and handle, with a rubber blade inserted into the wooden handle and stapled in position, and then professionally sharpened after assembly.

The squeegee is built ruggedly with a rubber blade and lumber handle, ensuring its durability. It is also ergonomically designed with a straight handle for comfort. The squeegee boasts excellent abrasion and solvent resistance, making it a reliable tool for any printing job. Molded by high heat and pressure, this squeegee is made to last.

Upgrade your printing game with the 65 Durometer Screen Printing Squeegees today!

Pros

  • Suitable for both graphic and textile applications
  • Ergonomic design for comfortable use
  • Excellent abrasion and solvent resistance
  • Rugged build with rubber blade and lumber handle
  • Durable construction with high heat and pressure molding

10. Ecoscreen Pink: Silk Screen Emulsion 32oz.

Ecotex DC Pink Textile Emulsion is a dual-cure photopolymer emulsion that is perfect for use with both water-based and plastisol inks. This pure photopolymer emulsion is easy to use and can do it all. With proper use and storage, this emulsion can last for up to 12 months.

To ensure the longevity of the emulsion, it should be kept in a cool area as heat can cause it to break down faster. It can also be stored in a fridge for slightly extended shelf life. The emulsion lid should always be kept tight to prevent air and light leaks, and it should be gently mixed before each use.

For best results, the emulsion should be used with a silk screen printing kit and cured with a strong emulsion exposure unit. DIY light is not recommended. The Ecotex Emulsion Scoop Coater provides clean, even coverage and quality results.

All of the emulsions are made in the USA and hand-poured by SPD's finest. Screen printing enthusiasts can build their brand with confidence using SPD's screen printing tools.

If for any reason you are not satisfied with the aluminum screen printing emulsion scoop coater, a full, 30-day money-back guarantee is offered.

Pros

  • Dual-cure emulsion works with both water-based and plastisol inks
  • Pure photopolymer emulsion is durable
  • Easy to use
  • 12+ month shelf life with proper storage
  • Made in the USA
  • Money-back guarantee

Best Water Based Ink For Screen Printing FAQs

Can water-based ink be used on all types of fabrics?

Water-based ink is generally suitable for use on most types of fabrics. It is a popular choice for screen printing on cotton, polyester, and other synthetic fabrics. However, some fabrics may require special treatment before using water-based ink. For instance, nylon and silk fabrics may need to be treated with a special coating before printing. Also, some water-based inks are not suitable for use on dark-colored fabrics, as they may not show up well. In such cases, it may be necessary to use a different type of ink, such as plastisol. It is always important to read the manufacturer's instructions before using any ink on fabric. This will help ensure that the ink is suitable for the fabric and that the printing process is successful. Overall, water-based ink is a versatile and effective choice for printing on a wide range of fabrics.

How can I achieve vibrant colors and good coverage with water-based ink in screen printing?

To achieve vibrant colors and good coverage with water-based ink in screen printing, there are a few things you can do. The first thing is to choose high-quality water-based inks that are specifically designed for screen printing. These inks are formulated to provide excellent coverage and vibrant colors, so they are ideal for printing on fabrics.

Another important factor is to ensure that your screens are properly prepared before printing. This means that they should be clean, dry, and free from any dust or debris that could interfere with the ink's ability to adhere to the fabric. It's also important to use the right mesh count for your screens, as this can affect the amount of ink that is deposited onto the fabric.

When printing, it's important to use the right amount of ink and to apply it evenly across the screen. This will help to ensure that you get good coverage and vibrant colors. You may also want to consider using a squeegee with a soft or medium durometer, as this can help to push the ink into the fabric more effectively.

Finally, make sure that you cure your prints properly after printing. This will help to ensure that the ink sets properly and doesn't fade or wash out over time. With these tips, you should be able to achieve vibrant colors and good coverage with water-based ink in screen printing.

How does water-based ink differ from other types of inks used in screen printing?

Water-based ink is a type of ink that is commonly used in screen printing. Unlike other types of inks, water-based ink is made up of water and pigments. This makes it a more environmentally friendly option as it does not contain harmful chemicals or solvents.

One of the main differences between water-based ink and other types of inks is its ability to penetrate the fabric fibers. Water-based ink is able to soak into the fabric, creating a softer feel and a more vibrant print. This is especially important for printing on lighter colored fabrics as the ink will not sit on top of the fabric, making the print feel stiff and heavy.

Another advantage of water-based ink is the ability to achieve a wider range of colors. Since water-based ink is made up of pigments, it can be mixed to create custom colors that are not available with other types of inks.

Overall, water-based ink is a versatile and eco-friendly option for screen printing. Its ability to penetrate fabric fibers and achieve vibrant colors make it a popular choice for many screen printers.

What are the advantages of using water-based ink for screen printing?

Water-based ink is a popular choice for screen printing due to its numerous advantages. Firstly, it is an eco-friendly option as it is made from natural and renewable resources. It does not contain any harmful chemicals or solvents, making it safe for both the environment and the printer. Additionally, water-based ink produces vibrant and soft prints that are long-lasting and durable, even after multiple washes. It also allows for a higher level of detail and precision in the design, resulting in a more professional and polished finished product. Another advantage of water-based ink is that it is versatile and can be used on a variety of materials, including cotton, polyester, and even leather. Overall, using water-based ink for screen printing is a wise choice that offers a range of benefits, including sustainability, quality, and versatility.

What are the best practices for cleaning screens and equipment when using water-based ink?

When it comes to cleaning screens and equipment that have been used with water-based ink, it is important to follow some best practices to ensure that the cleaning process is effective and does not damage the equipment. Firstly, it is recommended to use warm water as it helps to dissolve the ink and makes the cleaning process easier. Using a soft brush or sponge is also recommended to avoid scratching the equipment. It is important to avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach or solvents as they can damage the equipment and even affect the quality of future prints. Instead, a mild soap or detergent can be used to clean the screens and equipment. It is also important to rinse the screens and equipment thoroughly to remove any soap residue. Additionally, it is recommended to dry the equipment completely before storing it to avoid any mold growth or damage. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your screens and equipment are cleaned effectively and maintained properly.

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