Screen Printing

Custom screen printing is a printing method that uses a stencil and ink to create designs on fabric or other surfaces. The stencil, or screen, is made by blocking out areas of a mesh screen to achieve a specific design. Printers then press the ink through the open areas of the screen to create the design on the surface below.

Screen printing can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including fabrics, paper, plastic, metal, and wood. The experienced professionals at Flask Ink will let you know if the surface you have in mind can be printed on within our print shop.

There are several types of ink that can be used in screen printing, including water-based, plastisol, and discharge inks. Each type of ink has its own advantages and is chosen based on the requirements of the graphic design for a specific project.

Custom screen printing is a durable and cost-effective printing method that is ideal for large print runs or designs with fewer colors. Screen printers produce superior quality, vibrancy, and durability compared to digital printing methods like direct to garment printing. It also comes at a lower price than many other printing options, making it a great affordable option.

To prepare your design for screen printing, you will need to create a high-resolution image file of your artwork and separate the colors into individual layers. You will also need to choose the colors and type of ink you want for your design vision. Communicate with us if you have any questions on the details of the preparation process.

While there is no absolute limit to the number of colors that can be screen printed, each additional color requires a separate screen and printing pass. This means that designs with many colors can be both more time-consuming and more expensive to produce.

Screen printing is best suited for larger orders, but some printing companies offer a minimum order size of just a few pieces, meaning the screen printing process can be used for smaller orders. However, digital printing methods like direct to garment printing may be a better option for very small orders; for example, if you need just a few custom t-shirts.

The prices of custom screen printing projects depend on a variety of factors, including the size and complexity of the design, the number of colors, and the quantity of items being printed. Generally, the larger the order, the lower the cost per item.

Yes, custom screen printing services can be used for a wide range of promotional items, including t-shirts, hats, tote bags, and more. It is a popular choice for creating branded merchandise with your custom logo or promotional products for events or giveaways.

The durability of screen printing depends on the quality of the ink, the type of fabric or surface being printed on, and how the item is cared for, among other factors. With proper care, screen printing can last for many years without fading or cracking.