Screen printing is a form of art that uses a light-sensitive emulsion on a screen. The screen must be registered so that the colors line up correctly, and each color is exposed to a specific amount of light in a darkroom. The ink is then pushed through the screen one color at a time and cured in a large dryer. The process can be intimidating for many, but with the right equipment, anyone can master it.
Before the 1960s, the only options for screen printing on garments were water-based inks. These showed up on the garment very pale, and they took a long time to dry. They also tended to drip onto the printing screen, and the finished product had to be handled while it was still wet. It was a laborious process that required a long apprenticeship and required a high-quality screen printer. However, with the introduction of plastisol ink, the process of screen printing took a major turn for the better.
Screen printing is a great way to create a unique piece of clothing. As with any form of printing, you will need a design and artwork. Colors are important, but not all shirts are suitable for this process. Some t-shirts are dark, so it is important to check the material before beginning the printing process.
Screen printing is the most common method of t-shirt printing, and it has been around since human beings began making clothing. Unlike other printing methods, screen printing ink is thicker and produces true-to-life colors. Because of this, it is important to make sure your links are of high quality.
Screen printing is still a labor-intensive process, and it still requires some human input. A manual screen printing press can print from forty to one hundred t-shirts per hour, depending on the operator’s skill and the complexity of the design. Automated screen-printing presses are more efficient, however, and can print up to two hundred t-shirts per hour.
With the advancement of DTG technology, screen-printing is now possible on more types of fabric than ever before. The number one choice for DTG printing is 100% cotton, but some newer systems claim to print on polyester and moisture-wicking fabrics. However, these newer systems have yet to be widely adopted in the industry. The process is complex but can be quick if you find the right screen printing company. Tacoma Printing is a reliable printing service provider in Tacoma with years of experience.