Screen printing is a versatile and popular technique for creating unique designs on a variety of fabrics. From t-shirts and tote bags to phone cases and banners, the possibilities are vast. But when it comes to garments made with stretchy materials like spandex, athletic wear, or swimwear, standard plastisol inks can present a challenge.
This is where stretch additives come in. These specially formulated additives, like International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear, enhance the flexibility of plastisol ink, allowing it to move and stretch with the fabric without cracking or peeling. This ensures the longevity and durability of your printed designs, especially on garments that undergo a lot of movement and wear.
Why Use Stretch Additives?
Here are some key reasons why incorporating a stretch additive like International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear into your screen printing process is essential when working with stretchy fabrics:
- Prevents Cracking: Standard plastisol inks tend to be rigid and inflexible. When applied to stretchy fabrics, they can crack and peel during movement or washing. Stretch additives increase the elasticity of the ink, allowing it to move with the fabric and maintain its integrity.
- Improved Durability: By preventing cracking and peeling, stretch additives ensure your designs last longer and maintain their crispness, wash after wash. This is especially important for garments that are subjected to frequent wear and tear.
- Maintains Design Quality: Cracked or peeling ink can significantly detract from the overall quality of your printed design. Stretch additives help to preserve the vibrancy and clarity of your artwork, even on stretchy fabrics.
- Versatility: Stretch additives can be used with a wide variety of plastisol inks, giving you the freedom to create designs with different colors and effects.
Introducing International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear
International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear is a high-performance stretch additive specifically formulated to enhance the flexibility of plastisol inks for use on stretch fabrics. Here are some of its key features:
- Excellent Elasticity: 3805 Super Stretch Clear significantly increases the elongation properties of plastisol ink, allowing it to stretch and move freely with the fabric.
- Maintains Opacity: Unlike some stretch additives that can reduce ink opacity, 3805 Super Stretch Clear maintains the vibrancy and opacity of your plastisol inks.
- Easy to Use: This additive is easily incorporated into your existing screen printing process.
- Low Odor: 3805 Super Stretch Clear is formulated with a low odor profile, making it a more pleasant choice for screen printers.
Using International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear: A Step-by-Step Guide
International Coatings recommends incorporating 5% to 20% by weight of 3805 Super Stretch Clear to your plastisol ink. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it effectively:
- Gather your materials: You’ll need your chosen plastisol ink, International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear, a mixing container, and a scale to measure the appropriate weights.
- Weigh your ink: Using your scale, accurately weigh the amount of plastisol ink you plan to use for your project.
- Calculate the additive amount: Determine the desired percentage of stretch additive (between 5% and 20%) based on the weight of your ink. For example, if you’re using 100 grams of ink, and you want a 10% stretch factor, you’ll need 10 grams of 3805 Super Stretch Clear. (100 grams x 10%) = 10 grams
- Add the stretch additive: Carefully pour the measured amount of 3805 Super Stretch Clear into your ink container.
- Mix thoroughly: Using a stir rod or mixing paddle, thoroughly mix the stretch additive with the plastisol ink until you achieve a uniform consistency. Ensure there are no streaks or unblended pockets of additive.
International Coatings also offers some additional recommendations for optimal results:
- Test on scrap fabric: Before printing on your final garment, test the mixed ink on a scrap piece of the same fabric to ensure proper adhesion, stretch, and opacity. This allows you to identify any potential issues and adjust your technique or ink mixture beforehand.
- Mesh selection: Consider using a slightly finer mesh count (around 110-150 threads per inch) when printing with stretch additives. This can help to improve ink deposit and detail, as finer mesh allows for a smoother ink laydown through the screen onto the fabric.
- Print stroke: Adjust your printing stroke to be slightly slower to allow for better ink laydown and adhesion to the stretchy fabric. A slower stroke ensures the ink has sufficient time to properly penetrate the fibers of the fabric, creating a stronger bond.
- Cure time and temperature: Always follow the recommended cure time and temperature specified by the plastisol ink manufacturer for optimal results. Under-curing can lead to weak adhesion and a lack of flexibility, while over-curing can cause the ink to become brittle and crack.
Beyond the Basics: Additional Applications of International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear
While primarily used as a stretch additive, International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear offers additional functionalities:
- Base Layer for Regular Plastisol Inks: When printing on highly stretchy fabrics like Lycra/Spandex or 100% cotton knitted ribs, you can use 3805 Super Stretch Clear as a base layer. This creates a more flexible foundation for your regular plastisol inks, enhancing their overall stretchability.
- Final Overprint for a Glossy Finish: For a touch of visual appeal, 3805 Super Stretch Clear can be used as a final overprint on your design. This creates a wet or glossy look, adding a unique aesthetic element to your printed artwork.
Important Considerations:
- Not for All Fabrics: It’s important to note that International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear is not recommended for use with 100% polyester fabrics. The additive may not adhere well to this synthetic material.
- Wash Testing: Always perform a wash test on a printed sample of your fabric to ensure the design maintains its integrity and vibrancy after washing. This helps to identify any potential issues with ink adhesion or colorfastness before printing on your final garments.
Conclusion
Stretch additives like International Coatings 3805 Super Stretch Clear are a valuable tool for screen printers who work with stretchy fabrics. By incorporating this additive into your process, you can create durable, high-quality designs that move and stretch with the fabric, ensuring customer satisfaction and expanding your printing capabilities. With its ease of use and excellent performance, 3805 Super Stretch Clear can help you take your screen printing projects to the next level, especially when working with activewear, swimwear, and other garments made with stretchy materials.
