Water-based Ink Properties
When you order screen printing from Print Room NZ, we use water-based inks by default — and there’s a good reason why.
What is Water-Based Ink?
Water-based ink soaks into the fabric instead of sitting on top. It creates a soft, breathable print that feels like part of the garment — not a thick layer on top. It’s made using water as the main solvent, which means no harsh chemicals, no plastic feel, and no cracked prints over time.
What is Plastisol Ink?
Plastisol is a plastic-based ink that doesn’t soak into the fabric. Instead, it creates a thick coating on the surface. It’s easy for printers to use and lasts well — but it’s made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and requires chemical solvents to clean up. It’s still widely used in the industry, but it’s less kind to the environment and harder on print staff.
Better for our team: No exposure to harmful solvents or PVC
Better for the planet: No microplastics or toxic runoff
Better for your merch: Super soft, breathable, and long-lasting prints
Better-looking results: Crisp detail and matte finish that feels premium
Feature
Water-Based Ink
Plastisol Ink
Feel on Garment
Soft, barely noticeable
Thick, rubbery texture
Breathability
High – ink absorbs into fabric
Low – ink sits on top of fabric
Durability
Long-lasting, softens further with washing
Very durable, can crack over time
Environmental Impact
Low – water clean-up, no microplastics
High – contains PVC, creates microplastic waste
Ink Composition
Pigments + water-based binders
Plastisol (PVC + plasticisers)
Staff Health & Safety
Safe – no harsh chemicals needed
Requires chemical solvents for clean-up
Detail & Finish
Sharp, matte finish with fabric texture
Glossy, opaque finish with some thickness
Microplastics Released
None
Estimated 1.5g per shirt
About MagnaColours® Inks
At Print Room NZ, we exclusively use MagnaColours® water-based inks for all screen printing. These industry-leading inks are known for their vibrant colour, soft feel, and commitment to sustainability — making them better for your merch, our team, and the environment.
Why We Use MagnaColours®
1. GOTS-Certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) MagnaColours® inks are certified by GOTS, the world’s leading standard for organic textiles. This means the inks:
Contain no harmful chemicals or toxins
Are safe for both the environment and the wearer
Can be used on certified organic garments without compromising integrity
2. OEKO-TEX® Eco Passport Certified This certification guarantees that the inks meet strict health and safety standards. They’re free from heavy metals, formaldehyde, and other harmful substances.
3. PVC-Free and Phthalate-Free Unlike plastisol inks, MagnaColours® contain no plastics or plasticisers. That means:
No microplastics released during washing
No toxic runoff during production
Safer for the environment and waterways
4. Low Environmental Impact
Water-based = low VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions
Clean-up with water — no harsh solvents needed
Better air quality and safer working conditions for our staff
5. Premium Print Results
Soft, breathable finish — no plastic feel
Excellent colour brightness and durability
Compatible with specialty inks like discharge, puff, glow-in-the-dark, and high-density
Certifications Overview
GOTS Certified
Global gold standard for organic and sustainable textile printing
OEKO-TEX® Eco Passport
Independent testing for harmful substances and chemicals
ZDHC Level 3
Meets the highest level of the Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals roadmap
Bluesign® Approved
Produced with minimal impact on people and planet
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