Plastisol vs. Water-Based Ink Transfers: What’s the Difference?
Direct-to-film (DTF) transfers have dominated the apparel decoration industry in recent years—and for good reason. They offer decorators the ability to produce full-color, fine-detail prints at low temperatures with low minimum order requirements, making it easier to take on more jobs. However, newer decorators may find themselves over-relying on this all-in-one solution, overlooking the benefits of traditional screen-printed transfers.
Now, it’s time to get back to the basics. With the launch of Goof Proof® Screen Printed Transfers at STAHLS’, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between plastisol and water-based ink transfers? And does it really matter? From hand feel to cost-efficiency, let’s break down when and why to use each type.
Plastisol Ink Transfers
Plastisol ink transfers are often referred to simply as screen-printed transfers. These transfers utilize plastisol ink, the same type of ink used in traditional screen printing. Because they rely on conventional screen printing methods, there are some design limitations to keep in mind:
- Limited design colors – Since plastisol transfers require separate screens for each color, designs are typically limited to a certain number of colors.
- No gradients – Unlike digital printing, traditional screen printing does not support gradients or color fades.
However, plastisol transfers excel in other areas:
- Soft, vintage feel – Many people associate plastisol ink with the soft hand feel of vintage T-shirts, making it a great choice for achieving that classic look and feel.
- Expanded color gamut – Since plastisol transfers use traditional inks, you can often achieve Pantone color matching, along with specialty finishes such as neon, glow-in-the-dark, and reflective inks, which cannot be replicated with digital printing.
- Cost efficiency – Plastisol transfers are generally more cost effective for larger orders or single-color designs. Decorators relying on direct to film transfers for all orders may be leaving money on the line.
Plastisol transfers are an excellent choice for bold, simple designs that require precise color matching or specialty finishes.
Water-Based Ink Transfers
Water-based ink transfers can be created in one of two ways:
- Digitally printed – The most common method, often associated with Direct to Film transfers but also includes hybrid transfers.
- Screen printed with water-based ink – Less common but still an option. AquTru® Water-Based Screen Printed Transfers from Transfer Express provide a low-temperature way to print on nylon, spandex, and lycra® while the water-based ink solution provides superior stretch and rebound.
Because they use water-based ink, these transfers are typically more eco-friendly compared to plastisol transfers. But how do they compare in terms of performance?
- Ideal for intricate designs – Digitally printed direct to film transfers excel at small, detailed artwork and multi-color designs.
- Not as soft as plastisol – While water-based ink is often perceived as a softer alternative, its feel can vary depending on the type of transfer and the fabric it’s applied to. On lightweight fabrics or large designs with heavy ink coverage, it may feel less soft compared to plastisol. However, advancements in water-based technology, along with factors like substrate choice and application method, can influence the overall hand feel.
If you’re printing highly detailed graphics with multiple colors you’ll want to go with digitally printed transfers. Or, if you want a more sustainable, eco-friendly printing method, water-based ink transfers are a great solution.
Plastisol vs Water-Based Ink: Which One Should You Choose?
Both plastisol and water-based ink transfers have their own strengths. Here’s a quick recap:
| Feature | Plastisol Ink Transfers | Water-Based Ink Transfers |
|---|---|---|
| Ink Type | Plastisol | Water-Based |
| Printing Method | Screen Printed | Digitally Printed or Screen Printed |
| Design Complexity | Simple, bold designs | Detailed, intricate designs |
| Color Capabilities | Pantone matching, neon, glow-in-the-dark | Multi-color digital printing |
| Hand Feel | Softer, vintage feel | Varies, may be less soft |
| Eco-Friendliness | Less eco-friendly | More eco-friendly |
The best choice depends on your specific needs. If you’re aiming for vibrant colors, specialty finishes, and a vintage-soft feel, plastisol ink transfers are the way to go. If you need detailed, multi-color prints and a more eco-conscious solution, water-based ink transfers are the better choice.
No matter which type you choose, STAHLS’ and Transfer Express have the right heat transfer solution for your business! Check out our latest Goof Proof® screen-printed transfers to see why plastisol remains a top choice for decorators everywhere.