Pros and Cons of Screen Printing

What is Screen Printing?

Silkscreen printing is one the most popular methods for tee shirts and hoodies in business. Screen printing involves using a stencil to create the printed design. Colors are applied one per screen and the results can be amazing!

Although some would say screen printing to be “old fashioned,” as it compared to the new age digital printing, it is still a viable option for many companies that use metal panels, vinyl stickers, binders, shirts, and so much more! There are many advantages and only a few disadvantages when it comes to the world of screen printing. 

How does it work? 

A stencil is placed atop a mesh screen with the fabric underneath. Once everything is completely flat, ink is then added to the top of the mesh screen. A rubber squeegee is then dragged down, this lets the ink get in the right places. 

What are the Pros?

• This is perfectly suited for single or double color designs.
• It creates a richness in the saturated colors. 
• Saves costs as the production team grows.
• Long lasting results and is not prone to fade away

What are the Cons?

• At times this can be labor intensive 
• Not generally recommended for Photography or design with a lot of color gradients.
• Can create a lot of waste in ink supplies. 
• With only one color applied per screen can be limiting on colors.

Fun Fact: 

Did you know that the first shirts, created at the end of the 19th century, were intended as underwear and as clothing for people who had difficulty using buttons? Reduced to 2 centuries later, more than 3 billion shirts are sold every year.

In a world where versatility, durability, high quality, and cost efficiency is important, it is truly up to the business owner or individual to decide whether screen printing is right for them! 

Let us know on our social media why you choose to screen print! We can’t wait to hear from you!