If you’re looking for a way to print on a wide variety of fabrics, screen printing is a great option. This method is quick, and cheap, but it may be too expensive for small runs. Instead, you should consider DTG printing, which is more cost-effective when printing in large quantities. Using multiple colors, varying gradients, and shadows will require more screens than a simple print. And, unlike other methods, screen printing is not only fast, and cheap, but can also produce highly durable prints.
In this process, the ink is spread onto a stencil or a screen. A production worker then passes the screen through an automated printing press, allowing the ink to penetrate the screen and imprint the design. This method is often slower than heat-pressed art, but it’s more durable. However, it does require more chemicals and equipment. So, screen printing isn’t for everyone. If you’re thinking about using this process, make sure that you’re comfortable with the process.
A custom screen printer may recommend increasing the font size of the design or choosing a different color for the artwork. Keep in mind that some colors do not transfer well to dark clothes. Make sure to choose a color alternative if you’re going with a dark blue shirt, for instance. You’ll also need to consult a screen printer to determine the type of screen you’ll need. In addition, the colors used in screen printing will depend on the fabric.
Another popular screen printing technique is silk screening. This method uses a mesh screen and ink to transfer an image to fabric. The technique originated in China around 950 AD and spread to Europe and the Americas in the early 20th century. Today, you’ll find screen-printed images on everything from T-shirts to mugs. Screen-printed designs are ubiquitous, and the process of screen printing is cheap and versatile. You can use screen printing for logo shirts, promotional shirts, and uniforms. Screen printing has become the most popular custom product printing technique in the world.
The first step in screen printing involves applying emulsion to a mesh screen. The ink is light-sensitive, but does not have a coconut smell. Once applied, UV-smart ink is then exposed to light. The emulsion hardens everywhere but the areas of the screen that are not covered by the film positive. Once dry, the screen is rinsed free of excess emulsion. The process is repeated until the desired design is achieved.