Screen Printing
What is Screen Printing?
Screen printing is a printing technique that uses a mesh screen, ink, and a squeegee to transfer a design onto fabric. Each color in your design requires a separate screen, which makes this process ideal for bold, graphic prints with a limited number of colors.
The Screen Printing Process: Step-by-Step
1. Design Preparation
Your artwork is separated by color, and each color is converted into a stencil. High-resolution vector files (.AI, .EPS, or .PDF) work best.
2. Screen Creation
A mesh screen is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. Once dried, the stencil is burned onto the screen using UV light. One screen is created per color.
3. Setup and Registration
The screens are aligned on the printing press to ensure each color prints in the exact spot. This step is crucial for multi-color designs.
4. Printing
Ink is poured onto the screen and a squeegee is used to push the ink through the mesh onto the fabric. This is repeated for each color and layer.
5. Curing
Once the design is printed, the garment goes through a high-temperature dryer to cure the ink. This ensures a vibrant, long-lasting print.
6. Quality Control
Each item is inspected to make sure the print is clean, aligned, and cured properly for maximum durability.
What Types of Designs Work Best with Screen Printing?
Screen printing shines when used with:
1. Bold, Graphic Artwork
Logos, text, and solid shapes come out crisp and vibrant.
2. Limited Color Designs
Ideally 1–6 colors. While more are possible, each color increases setup time and cost.
3. High-Quantity Orders
The setup time is fixed, so the more you print, the more cost-effective it becomes.
4. Flat, Solid Colors
Gradients and photo-realistic images are better suited for other methods like Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing.
What Doesn’t Work Well for Screen Printing?
- Highly Detailed or Photographic Images
Fine gradients, tiny text, and full-color photo images don’t translate well to screen printing.
- Designs with Many Colors
More than 6–8 colors becomes complex and costly, as each color requires its own screen.
When is Screen Printing the Best Option?
Choose screen printing when:
✅ You need durability.
The ink used in screen printing sits thickly on top of the fabric and is heat-cured, making it extremely durable and long-lasting—even through dozens of washes.
✅ You’re printing on cotton or cotton-blend fabrics.
Screen printing works best on cotton, though it can also be used on poly-blends, athletic wear, and even canvas.
✅ You have a simple, bold design.
Logos, slogans, and brand graphics look clean and vibrant with this method.
✅ You're placing a large order.
Because of the upfront setup, screen printing becomes more affordable with higher quantities.
