Screen printing is an art form, but it can also have an environmental impact, especially when using plastisol ink. At Anatol, we’re committed to helping printers adopt sustainable practices without sacrificing quality. This guide explains how to use less plastisol ink and choose eco-friendly alternatives that work with modern screen printing machines. Explore practical strategies for more sustainable screen printing.

Why Reduce Plastisol Ink Use?

Plastisol ink, made from PVC and plasticizers, is a popular choice for its durability and vibrant colors. However, its petroleum content and high VOC emissions make it a less sustainable option. Reducing plastisol use can:

  • Lower your environmental footprint
  • Decrease waste and cleanup costs
  • Meet growing demand for sustainable apparel

With the right strategies and Anatol’s advanced screen printing machines, you can achieve stunning results while going green.

Strategies to Reduce Plastisol Ink Consumption

1. Optimize Your Screen Printing Setup

Using less ink starts with precision. Anatol’s automatic screen printing presses deliver consistent ink deposits and help minimize waste. Here’s how to optimize your setup:

  • Use finer mesh screens: Screens with a 200- to 230-mesh count lay down thinner ink layers, reducing plastisol use while maintaining quality.
  • Adjust squeegee pressure: Adjust the squeegee pressure to push less ink through the screen and save resources.
  • Calibrate your press: Regular maintenance of your Anatol equipment ensures accurate ink application.

2. Incorporate Ink Additives

Plastisol ink additives can help you use less ink while achieving desired effects. Common additives include:

  • Reducers: Lower ink viscosity for smoother printing with less ink.
  • Soft-hand bases: Create softer prints with thinner ink layers, reducing plastisol volume.

Always test additives on a small batch to make sure they work well with your screen printing setup..

3. Embrace Efficient Printing Techniques

Techniques like halftone printing and negative space designs use less ink by including lighter coverage areas. Additionally, using a mat-down screen after flash curing can soften prints without extra ink layers. These methods pair perfectly with Anatol’s electric dryers for precise curing.

Solutions Electric Dryer

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Plastisol Ink

Switching to eco-friendly inks is a powerful way to reduce reliance on plastisol. Here are top alternatives:

1. Water-Based Inks

Water-based inks are a sustainable choice, containing fewer solvents and no PVC. They absorb into the fabric to create a smooth, breathable finish, making them well-suited for lightweight textiles. Benefits include:

  • Lower VOC emissions
  • Easier cleanup with water
  • Works well with Anatol’s screen printing presses

Tip: Use high-solid acrylic (HSA) water-based inks for thicker prints similar to plastisol.

2. Discharge Inks

Discharge inks remove dye from dark fabrics and replace it with pigment, creating soft, vibrant prints without heavy ink layers. They are PVC-free and environmentally friendly, making them an excellent alternative to plastisol.

3. Soy-Based and Vegetable-Based Inks

Soy-based inks, like hydro-soy, blend water and soy oil for vibrant colors with lower VOCs. Vegetable-based inks, made from linseed or corn, break down naturally and are recyclable. Both are excellent for eco-friendly screen printing.

4. UV-Curable Inks

UV-curable inks cure instantly under UV light, reducing waste and stopping solvent emissions. While energy-intensive, they’re a durable, eco-conscious option for non-porous substrates.

How Anatol Supports Sustainable Printing

At Anatol, we empower printers to go green with cutting-edge equipment. Our automatic presses and dryers deliver precise results while supporting eco-friendly inks and efficient ink use. Plus, our team offers expert guidance on transitioning to sustainable practices.

Are you prepared to reduce your plastisol ink consumption? Contact Anatol to explore our eco-friendly solutions!

Ink mixer blending colors for precise screen printing designs

Conclusion

Using less plastisol ink and choosing eco-friendly inks like water-based, discharge, or soy-based is good for your business and the environment. With Anatol’s screen printing equipment, you can implement these changes seamlessly, delivering high-quality, sustainable prints. Start small, experiment with new inks, and let Anatol guide you toward a greener future in screen printing.