Table of Contents
Elastic Plastisol Ink Guide: Making Stretch Prints That Last
What You Need to Know
Hi there! If your prints crack when people stretch their shirts, this guide will help. We’ll show you how to make prints that stretch and stay nice.
The Big Problem With Regular Ink
Regular ink is too stiff. When someone stretches their shirt, the ink breaks. This happens a lot with:
- Gym clothes
- Dance wear
- Swim suits
- Yoga pants
What Are Stretch Additives?
Stretch additives are special helpers that make ink flexible. They are like magic sauce for your ink! Mix them in and your prints will:
- Stretch without breaking
- Last longer
- Feel soft
- Look better
Top Stretch Additive Brands
Here’s a simple list of good brands to try:
| Brand | What It’s Best For | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Wilflex | Sports clothes | $$$ |
| MagnaColours | Earth-friendly | $$$$ |
| FN Ink | Saving money | $$ |
How to Mix Your Ink
Follow these easy steps:
- Get your regular ink
- Add 5-15% stretch additive
- Mix well
- Test on a small piece of cloth
Tips for Good Mixing
- Use a clean mixer
- Mix slowly
- Check that all lumps are gone
Making Sure Your Print Works
Test your print by:
- Stretching it hard
- Washing it 5 times
- Checking for cracks
- Looking at the edges
Common Problems and Fixes
If your print:
- Feels sticky → Heat less
- Cracks → Add more additive
- Bleeds → Use finer mesh
Where to Buy Good Additives
You can get stretch additives from:
- Big ink makers
- Screen print shops
- Online stores
Smart Shopping Tips
- Buy small test amounts first
- Ask for free samples
- Check shipping costs
New and Cool Stuff
Coming soon:
- Earth-friendly additives
- Self-fixing inks
- Better stretch power
Quick Help Guide
If prints crack:
- Add more additive
- Heat just right
- Use right mesh size
- Test before big jobs
Last Tips
- Keep ink in air-tight jars
- Mix fresh batches often
- Label everything clearly
- Test on scrap fabric
