Organic Screen Printing

Traditional Methods

Traditional printing ink poses a serious danger to the air we breathe, the water we drink and the food we eat. This is because toxic chemicals that are produced during the manufacturing and disposal processes, as well as during the use of this ink, are released into the environment.

Plastisol, the traditionally used ink for screen printing, is manufactured by using a liquefied form of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. The chlorine-based chemicals that are formed when this product is manufactured react with other chemicals to create dioxins, PCBs and other toxic compounds. In addition, the plasticizers used to make this ink flexible are carcinogenic and continue to be released even after you have purchased the product. So even if you have purchased an organic hemp or cotton shirt, your purchase may not be as environmentally friendly as you think it is.

Organic Screen Printing Ink

There are, however, alternatives to this unhealthy problem. Some companies use non-toxic, water-based inks for their screen printing needs. The advantage of this over traditional ink is that it leaves the fabric soft, washable and ironable without fading or releasing toxic fumes. The disadvantage is that it only can be used on light-colored fabrics.

Another alternative is a product called Rehance, made by T.S. Designs. This product is an alternative to other water-based inks because it can be used on dark fabrics as well as lighter-colored fabrics. Rehance has no PVC so it won’t crack like many screen printed products do. The printing feels like part of the fabric because it is actually embedded into the fabric. Rehance inks are not natural inks, but they do meet the North American Organic Fiber standards that are currently pending by the Organic Trade Association.

A New York company called Drapeta uses an all natural ink on its shirts. This ink is created with a patented blend of sea kelp, tree sap, oils, vegetable dyes and organic pigments. This results in a print that is bright and colorfast as well as being bonded to the shirt’s fibers for a soft, natural feel.

Organic Screen Printing Companies

It can be difficult to find a company that not only has organic shirts, but also uses organic inks for screen printing. If you are concerned about the environment or even if you just prefer natural products for your own health, the search is worth it. Here are a few companies to start with.

• Hemp Organic is a company that produces hemp and organic cotton clothing. They also use a non-toxic, water-based ink in a four-part color process to screen print your T-shirts. Pricing will depend on the quantity of shirts ordered and how many colors you want for your print. They also have an online store where you can purchase their organic clothing products.

• The Planet Ink Company manufactures 100 percent organic cotton shirts that are printed with 100 percent organic ink. These shirts are sold in quantity and prices depend on quantity and the number of colors used.

As more and more companies become aware of consumer’s needs for organic screen printing, along with other organic products, you will find much more available to you. Look at the variety of organic foods that are available today and you will see that supply expands with demand. Let these companies know that there are safer, earth-friendly alternatives. You can write a letter, make a phone call or even e-mail to let manufacturers know the benefits of organic products. You really can make a difference.