Question from Lisa
Hi Debra,
I am wondering what you think about screen printing on clothing items.
Avoid it? Or is it ok?
Specifically, I have seen that it fades over time with washing and drying. I’m wondering if this leaves any residues, etc in the washer or dryer, or additional pollution to the laundry waste water.
Is there anything you’ve read about screen printing and issues related to contact with the skin?
I read your blog often, and I find it very useful. I’ve also purchased all your books. Thanks!
Debra’s Answer
I don’t have any personal experience with doing screen printing, however, I did look up the MSDS sheets of some printing inks. Apparently, there is quite a wide variety, ranging from inks conaining no hazardous ingredients to inks that are made from PVC.
I remember purchasing a set of cotton flannel sheets some years ago that had a pattern I liked. When I opened the package at home, it had a strong odor of plastic. Instead of the pattern being dyed into the fabric, it was screened on top with a plastic ink. Not only did it smell, but the areas with the pattern felt like plastic–not at all soft like the flannel sheet.
I washed these sheets half a dozen times and the smell did not go away. I finally just threw them in the garbage can.
I know too that a screened-on design does not last through many washings. It will peel off.
Some inks do have metals in them, particularly the “metallic” inks.
I personally tend to not purchase clothing or other items that have been screen printed. If you want to, check with the printer and obtain the MSDS for the ink first.
