What is screen printing, and why do so many businesses use it for custom t-shirts? In short, screen printing is a method that pushes ink through a stencil onto fabric. It creates bold, long-lasting designs, and it is the most popular way to print shirts in bulk. Here is how it works.
What Is Screen Printing, Exactly?
So, what is screen printing in simple terms? Screen printing, also called silk screening, uses a fine mesh screen as a stencil. The open parts of the screen let ink through, while the blocked parts do not. Then, a squeegee pulls ink across the screen, and the design transfers onto the shirt. You can read more about its long history on Wikipedia.
How Screen Printing Works, Step by Step
- Design: first, the artwork is split into separate colors.
- Screen prep: next, each color is burned onto its own screen with light-sensitive emulsion.
- Setup: then, the screens are lined up on the press, so every color lands in the right spot.
- Printing: after that, ink is pushed through each screen onto the shirt, one color at a time.
- Curing: finally, the shirts go through a dryer that sets the ink, so it survives washing.
Benefits of Screen Printing
- Bold color: thick ink looks bright, even on dark shirts.
- Durability: cured ink lasts through years of washing.
- Low cost in bulk: setup is split across the whole order, so each shirt costs less.
- Versatility: it works on t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, and more.
What Screen Printing Costs
The price depends on the shirt, the number of ink colors, the print locations, and the quantity. Because each color needs a screen, fewer colors cost less. In addition, larger orders lower the price per shirt. Our guide to bulk t-shirt pricing explains each factor in detail.
When Should You Choose Screen Printing?
Screen printing is the best choice for 24 or more shirts with the same design. For example, it is perfect for company shirts, team tees, events, and fundraisers. However, for hats and polos with a small logo, embroidery often looks better. Compare both in our guide to screen printing vs. embroidery.
Tips for a Great Screen Printed Shirt
- Send vector artwork, or a 300 DPI file at full size.
- Use high-contrast colors, so the design is easy to read.
- Keep fine lines thick enough to print cleanly.
- Also, choose a smooth ringspun blank, such as the Next Level 3600.
Now that you know what is screen printing and how it works, you are ready to plan your order. Learn more on our custom screen printing page.
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Browse our custom apparel catalog for instant pricing, or request a free quote. Every order includes a free proof and free shipping in the lower 48 states.
