The present invention relates to a water-based ink for ink-jet printing which not only satisfies a high optical density but also exhibits an excellent high lighter -fastness; a water dispersion used for the water-based ink; and a method for producing a print using the water-based ink. There are provided a water dispersion for ink-jet printing comprising (i) (A-1) polymer particles containing a colorant, (B) polymer particles and (C) the water-insoluble organic compound, or (ii) (A-2) self- dispersible pigment, (B) polymer particles and (C) the water-insoluble organic compound; a water-based ink containing the water dispersion; and a method for producing a print using the water-based ink.