When you're designing custom apparel, the ink you choose is just as important as the shirt itself. It determines how the print feels (the "hand"), how bright the colors are, and how long it lasts.
At Midnight Owls, we specialize in both. But they serve very different purposes. Let's break down the battle between the industry standard (Plastisol) and the premium contender (Waterbase/Discharge).
1. Plastisol: The Bold Standard
Plastisol is a PVC-based ink that doesn't dye the fabric; it sits on top of it. It's basically a very thin layer of flexible plastic that is heat-cured onto the shirt.
Why we love it:
- Vibrancy: The colors are 100% opaque. If you want bright yellow on a black shirt, Plastisol is the king.
- Color Matching: We can hit exact Pantone (PMS) values with near-perfect accuracy.
- Versatility: Works on cotton, polyester, blends, hoodies, nylon—pretty much anything.
The trade-off:
It has a "hand." You can feel the print. On large, solid designs (like a big back logo), it can feel a bit heavy or "sweaty" in hot weather.
2. Waterbase & Discharge: The Soft Touch
Waterbase inks are exactly what they sound like—inks that are water-soluble. They soak into the fibers of the shirt rather than sitting on top.
Discharge ink is a special type of waterbase ink with an activator that removes the original dye of the shirt (bleaches it out) and replaces it with your chosen color.
Why we love it:
- Zero Hand: Once washed, you literally cannot feel the print. It becomes part of the shirt.
- Vintage Look: It naturally looks a bit more matte and distressed, perfect for that "worn-in" band tee vibe.
- Breathability: Air passes right through the print.
🦉 Midnight Pro Tip
Aiming for a soft print but need bright colors? Ask us about "Soft-Hand Plastisol" or "Chino Additives." We can modify plastisol to feel softer while keeping the color pop. It's the best of both worlds.
The Showdown
| Feature | Plastisol | Waterbase / Discharge |
|---|---|---|
| Feel (Hand) | Noticeable, rubbery feel | No feel, part of fabric |
| Vibrancy | 10/10 (Very Bright) | 8/10 (More Matte/Muted) |
| Garments | Any fabric (Cotton/Poly/Blend) | 100% Cotton recommended |
| Durability | Extremely durable (won't fade) | Fades slightly over time (vintage look) |
Which one should I choose?
Choose Plastisol if: You have a corporate logo that needs to be pantone-matched, you are printing on athletic wear (polyester), or you want a bright, glossy finish.
Choose Waterbase if: You are a streetwear brand, you're printing on high-quality 100% cotton blanks, and you prioritize comfort and a retail-quality feel over exact color precision.