screen printing machine

Description of Commercial Screen Printing

Before starting, each color must be set up on a computer, and a screen must be made for each. The process is intensive and sometimes takes hours to complete depending on the actual artwork.

Here is a simplified description of the screen printing process.  A  squeegee is used to move the mesh down to the substrate, and the squeegee is then pushed to the rear of the screen. In the meantime, the tension of the mesh will pull the mesh away from the substrate.  This will leave the ink on the substrate surface. The ink is passed through this screen (or a ‘mesh’), which is fixed on a frame before it is passed through the screen. A stencil is applied to the screen. The openings on this stencil are also responsible for determining the image that needs to be imprinted on the screen. Different types of screens may be used for different colors. The process is then repeated until the desired outcome is obtained

What are the Advantages of Screen Printing?

Screen printing offers a myriad of advantages that make it a valuable choice. One of the standout benefits is its versatility, as it can be applied to a wide range of materials including fabric, metal, plastic, glass, and paper. Moreover, screen printing proves to be cost-effective especially for large quantities as the per-unit cost decreases with each additional print. It is not a good choice for smaller quantities but excels in handling larger designs or logos due to its capability of producing sharp and intricate details even on expansive surfaces. In summary, this technique guarantees excellent quality, durability, and cost-effectiveness when creating custom prints on various materials.

What are the Disadvantages of Screen Printing?

There are several disadvantages to screen printing. One drawback is that it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially for complex designs with multiple colors. Additionally, screen printing is not cost-effective for small print runs, as the setup costs can be high. Another drawback is that screen printing does not produce high levels of detail or resolution, so it may not be suitable for intricate designs or photographic images. Finally, screen printing is limited to flat surfaces and fabrics, making it less versatile than other printing methods.

Custom Screen Printed Shirts

Create your own screen printed shirts with our easy-to-use Design On Line Tool.  There are plenty of graphics, clip art and templates to use or simply upload your own logo, clip art, or text to create the perfect look.