Screen Printing: The Classic Choice for T-Shirt Printing
Screen printing is one of the most popular and time-tested methods for creating high-quality, durable designs on garments. Known for its vibrant colors, crisp details, and cost-effectiveness for bulk orders, screen printing is a go-to choice for businesses, events, and custom apparel projects. While digital transfer methods like DTF, DTG, and sublimation excel in certain areas (such as small orders or complex designs), screen printing remains unmatched for its durability, color opacity, and affordability for larger quantities.
What is Screen Printing?
Screen printing is a technique where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto a garment. Each colour in the design requires a separate screen, making it ideal for bold, multi-coloured designs. The process involves creating a stencil (or “screen”) for each colour layer, aligning them precisely, and applying the ink onto the fabric.
Why Choose Screen Printing?
Screen printing is perfect for:
- Large orders where cost-effectiveness is key.
Bold, vibrant designs with solid colours.
Durable prints that withstand frequent washing and wear.
Custom apparel for businesses, teams, events, and promotions.
Screen printing garment types:
Cotton and cotton-blend fabrics (e.g., t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags).
Light-coloured garments for optimal colour vibrancy. Dark coloured garments require an additional layer of white underbase.
How It Looks & Feels:
- Colors are opaque and vibrant, even on darker fabrics (with a white underbase).
The print has a slightly raised texture, giving it a tactile, premium feel.
Designs are crisp and sharp, with clean edges and no bleeding.
Customizable Finishes:
Standard: A smooth, slightly raised finish.
Soft-hand: A lighter ink layer for a softer feel.
Metallic or Glitter: Specialty inks for unique effects.
Puff or High-Density: Adds a 3D texture to the design.
Where Screen Printing Falls Short:
Not Ideal for Small Orders: The setup process (creating screens) makes screen printing less cost-effective for small batches or single items.
Limited Colors & Gradients: Screen printing is generally limited to 6 colours & works best for solid colors. Designs with gradients, shading, or photorealistic details may not translate as well.
Fabric Limitations: While it works on a variety of fabrics, screen printing is most effective on cotton and light-colored garments. For polyester or all-over prints, digital methods like sublimation may be a better choice.
Let Us Help You Bring Your Vision To Life
Choosing the right printing method can be tricky, but our team is here to guide you. Whether you need a single custom t-shirt or a bulk order for your business, we’ll help you select the best option for your needs. Contact us today to get started!
