When considering custom t-shirts, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is the printing method. With various techniques available, it can be overwhelming to determine the best option. Instead of searching online and ending up with confusing information, let’s break it down!
Screen printing is a technique that uses ink and a mesh stencil (screen) to transfer designs onto fabric. Each color in the design requires its own screen, meaning a single shirt could need multiple stencils to complete the process. The printing process begins with aligning the screens on a test sheet to ensure proper color placement. Once everything is set, the ink is pressed through the screens, one color at a time, onto the fabric. The design is then cured using a large dryer to ensure durability.
Screen printing is considered an art form, requiring precision and attention to detail. A well-executed print results in vibrant, long-lasting designs that enhance the look of custom apparel.
To help you make an informed decision, here are eight key things you should know about screen printing before choosing it for your custom t-shirts.
1. Screen Printing Goes Beyond T-Shirts
A common misconception is that screen printing is only for t-shirts, but that’s far from true! This technique can be used on a variety of items, including jackets, flags, signs, backpacks, lanyards, and tote bags. Whether for business branding or personal projects, screen printing offers versatility across many products.
2. You Aren’t Confined to Cotton
Many believe that screen printing only works on cotton apparel, but there are plenty of fabric options available. Polyester, silk, viscose, and other materials can also be successfully screen printed, giving you more choices when selecting the right fabric for your needs.
3. Sample Prints and Order Quantities
Customers often ask why sample prints aren’t available or why single-item orders aren’t an option. The reason is that once a screen printing press is set up, the printing process remains the same whether one or one hundred shirts are being printed. Larger orders help reduce production costs, which is why bulk printing is encouraged to keep pricing efficient.
4. Variance in Placement
Since garments are manually placed onto the press, slight variations in design placement can occur from one item to another. While these minor shifts are generally unnoticeable, it’s important to understand that perfect alignment on every single piece isn’t always possible.
5. Geometric Designs May Appear Different When Printed
Although a digital mockup may show perfectly symmetrical geometric shapes, the actual print may vary slightly. When a garment is stretched over the printing frame, the fabric threads separate a bit, which can alter the final appearance of circles, squares, and other shapes. Additionally, because fabric moves with the body, the design may not always look as rigid as it does on a flat digital preview.
6. Certain Materials and Inks Don’t Always Work Together
Screen printing is a craft, and not all inks are compatible with every fabric. For instance, discharge inks work best on 100% cotton, while water-based inks on darker garments may result in a faded appearance. Understanding the right ink for the right material ensures the best print quality, and working with an experienced team can help you make the best choice for your design.
7. Same Custom Design, Different Shirts
While the actual design must remain the same throughout a print run, the garment styles can vary. This means you can use different shirt styles in similar colors on the same screen printing setup, allowing you to print the same design on both men’s and women’s apparel without additional setup costs.
8. Achieving a No-Feel Print
For a soft, seamless print that you can’t feel when running your hand over the fabric, water-based inks are the best choice. However, the true “no-feel” effect is only fully achieved after washing the garment, allowing the ink to fully settle into the fabric.
Conclusion
Screen printing is a highly effective and versatile method for customizing apparel and other products. From fabric selection to ink compatibility, understanding these key factors ensures the best results for your project. By keeping these insights in mind, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions when creating custom screen-printed items.
