An easy way to think about this is as a photographic stencil process. A stencil is created and then is used to apply layers of ink directly onto a product. The result is the screen's image transferred to the print surface. The versatility of this decoration method allows it to be used on a wide variety of items.
When to Use Screen Printing as a Decoration Method
Screen printing, also known as silk screen printing, is the most cost-effective method for large quantity print runs (around 50+ items) and works especially well with items like t-shirts and tanks. A complex design with many different colors requires different stencils for each color, so this decoration method is best for logos with 4 colors or less.
Screen Printing is Ideal for…
- Custom T-Shirts
- Custom Activewear & Sports Apparel
- Screen Printed Sweatshirts & Hoodies
- Promotional Pens & Custom Printed Notebooks
- Custom Drinkware
- Screen Printed Electronics
- Custom Golf Balls
- Much more
Benefits of Screen Printing as a Decoration Method
- Most cost-effective decoration method for larger custom apparel orders.
- Just about any design and ink color can be applied to any product through screen printing.
- Ink is applied thicker than digital printing, making your design more vibrant and easier to see on darker fabrics or surfaces.
Drawbacks of Screen Printing as a Decoration Method
- The necessity to create screens means screen printing is not ideal for smaller order sizes or individually personalized items.
- Prices typically increase on orders with a high number of colors.
