screen printing
Screen printing
Screen printing, often referred to as silk screening, is a versatile and time-honored method of imprinting images onto a variety of materials, most commonly clothing. This technique is celebrated for its ability to produce vibrant, long-lasting designs on textiles. It's a popular choice for everything from custom t-shirts to elaborate poster designs.
Get an instant quote for screen printing using our Quick Order page.
MINIMUM ORDER: 20 pcs for 1-2 print colors,+10 pcs per extra color
TURNAROUND: 10 - 15 working days [read more]
our method
(1) The Screen
At the heart of this process is the screen itself, which is typically made from a finely woven fabric called mesh stretched over a wooden or aluminum frame. The tightness and material of the mesh can vary depending on the intricacy of the design and the type of ink used.
(2) The Stencil
Attached to the mesh is a stencil, a negative of the design to be printed. Only areas where the design is to appear are left open, and the rest is blocked out. This can be achieved using various techniques, like using photosensitive emulsion which hardens when exposed to light, or manually cutting out designs from a resist material.
(3) The printing process
Once the screen is prepared, it's placed atop the item to be printed, and ink is applied to the top side of the screen. The ink is then pushed through the open areas of the mesh, transferring the design onto the material beneath. The amount of ink and the speed at which the squeegee is moved can influence the final print's opacity and look.
(4) Multi-color printing
For designs with multiple colors, each color requires its own screen. This is because each color has to be applied separately, often layer by layer, ensuring proper alignment (or registration) to achieve the intended final design.
(5) curing
After printing, the ink needs to be cured to ensure it's durable and resistant to washing. This is often done using heat, either by running the printed item through a conveyor dryer or using a heat press.
Whether you're looking to create custom merchandise, promotional materials, or unique pieces of art,screen printing is a trusted method that offers quality and longevity. At Method Ink, we pride ourselves on our screen printing expertise, ensuring every piece we produce is of the highest standard.
WHY SCREEN PRINT vs DTG?
Screen printing remains a preferred choice for many apparel and textile projects, especially when dealing with large quantities, simple and bold designs, and the need for vibrant, durable colors. Its cost-effectiveness and efficiency for bulk orders make it ideal for businesses, events, and organizations looking to produce high-quality, consistent garments at scale.
On the other hand, DTG printing shines in scenarios requiring intricate designs, smaller quantities, and quick turnaround times without the need for extensive setup. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the specific needs and priorities of your project.
durability
The prints are known to withstand many washes, maintaining their vibrancy for a long time.
vibrant
The inks used in screen printing can produce exceptionally bright and vivid colors, perfect for standout designs.
cost-effective
The initial setup might be intensive, but once set, printing in bulk becomes more cost-effective.
versatility
Can be used on a vast range of materials, including textiles, ceramics, wood, paper, glass, and more.
