Plastisol is a PVC-based ink in plasticiser that cures with heat at about 160 °C. It sits on top of the fabric, covers dark colours well and is easy to work with, but the hand feel is thicker and more plastic-like. Water-based ink soaks into the fibre, gives a soft and breathable feel, but covers less and needs careful control of drying.
For logos on promotional tees and hoodies plastisol is the standard. For premium tees on light cotton, water-based or diluted pigment inks give a vintage look without the film feel.



