Caring for Your Skip Marsh Plastisol Ink: Best Practices

Plastisol ink is a staple in the screen-printing industry, and Skip Marsh Plastisol Ink stands out for its quality and versatility. To get the most out of your ink and ensure vibrant, durable prints, proper care and handling are essential. Here are the best practices for maintaining and working with Skip Marsh Plastisol Ink.

1. Proper Storage Conditions

Storing plastisol ink correctly can significantly extend its shelf life and maintain its usability.

• Temperature Control: Keep the ink in a temperature-controlled environment between 65°F and 90°F. Extreme heat can cause the ink to gel prematurely, while cold temperatures may thicken it.
• Sealed Containers: Always ensure the lids are tightly closed to prevent contamination or drying out.
• Avoid Direct Sunlight: Exposure to direct sunlight can degrade the ink’s quality over time.

2. Mixing and Preparing the Ink

Before use, proper preparation is key to achieving consistent results.

• Stirring: Stir the ink thoroughly before each use to ensure even distribution of pigments and additives.
• Use Additives Wisely: If needed, use additives like reducers or thickeners in moderation and according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Avoid Contamination: Use clean tools and equipment to prevent dirt or debris from mixing with the ink.

3. Application Best Practices

Proper handling during the printing process ensures high-quality prints.

• Test Prints: Always conduct a test print before full production to ensure the desired results.
• Mesh Count: Match the ink with the appropriate mesh count of your screen to control ink flow and detail.
• Flooding and Printing: Maintain consistent flooding and squeegee pressure to achieve even ink deposits.

4. Curing and Heat Setting

Plastisol ink requires proper curing to bond effectively with the fabric.

• Curing Temperature: Cure the ink at the recommended temperature, typically around 320°F. Use a heat gun or infrared thermometer to ensure even heat distribution.
• Avoid Under- or Over-Curing: Under-curing can result in poor adhesion, while over-curing can cause cracking or discoloration.

5. Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining cleanliness during and after printing is crucial for preserving the ink and your equipment.

• Clean Screens Promptly: Remove excess ink from screens immediately after use to prevent clogging.
• Use Approved Cleaners: Clean tools and screens with products designed for plastisol ink to avoid damage.
• Reuse Excess Ink: Scoop unused ink back into the container to minimize waste, provided it is uncontaminated.

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with proper care, challenges may arise. Here’s how to address some common issues:

• Thickened Ink: If the ink becomes too thick, use a reducer to restore its consistency. Avoid adding too much, as this can affect curing.
• Inconsistent Prints: Check for uneven stirring, mesh blockages, or improper squeegee pressure.
• Fading or Cracking: Ensure the ink is fully cured and that the fabric is pre-treated appropriately if required.

7. Shelf Life and Expiry

While plastisol ink does not have a strict expiration date, its performance can degrade over time.

• Monitor Age: Use older ink first to ensure it doesn’t sit unused for too long.
• Check for Changes: Discard ink that shows signs of separation, excessive thickening, or an unusual odor, as it may no longer perform as expected.

Conclusion

Caring for your Skip Marsh Plastisol Ink is essential for achieving professional results and prolonging its usability. By following these best practices for storage, preparation, application, curing, and cleaning, you can maximize the quality and efficiency of your screen-printing projects. With proper attention to detail, your prints will stand out for their vibrancy and durability.