# 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](/production-capabilities/screen-printing/speciality-inks.md) like **discharge**, **puff**, **glow-in-the-dark**, and **high-density**

***

Certifications Overview

| Certification              | What It Means                                                                |
| -------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| **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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