Screenprinting

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the screen printing process for apparel:

1. Design Creation: The process typically starts with creating a design on a computer using graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. The design can include text, images, or a combination of both. It’s essential to ensure that the design is suitable for screen printing, with clear lines and colors.
2. Screen Preparation: Once the design is finalized, it’s printed onto a transparent film or transferred onto a special screen printing emulsion-coated mesh screen. Each color in the design requires a separate screen. (So the more colors, the more screens used.) The screen is then exposed to UV light, which hardens the emulsion except where the design blocks the light.
3. Setup: The screen is mounted onto a printing press, with the garment placed underneath. Proper alignment is crucial to ensure that each color in the design lines up correctly.
4. Ink Preparation: Ink is mixed to match the colors in the design using a PMS color. (Click here to see our stock inks).  Screen printing inks are typically thicker than other types of inks, allowing them to be applied to fabric without bleeding or smudging.  Here at Design Brand Print, we use plastisol inks for our screen printed orders using the PMS coated color system.  
5. Printing: The screen is lowered onto the garment, and the ink is poured onto the screen. A squeegee is then used to spread the ink evenly across the design, forcing it through the mesh and onto the garment below. This process is repeated for each color in the design, with the garment passing through a drying station between each color to ensure proper curing.
6. Curing: Once all colors have been applied, the garment is run through a conveyor dryer or heat press to cure the ink. This process ensures that the ink bonds securely to the fabric, creating a durable and long-lasting print.
7. Finishing: After curing, the garment may undergo additional finishing processes, such as trimming loose threads or folding, before being packaged and shipped out.

Screen printing offers several advantages for apparel:

• Durability: Screen printed designs are highly durable and can withstand numerous washes without fading or cracking.
• Versatility: It can be used on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
• Vibrancy: The thick layers of ink result in vibrant colors that stand out on the fabric.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Screen printing is cost-effective for large production runs, making it ideal for bulk orders or promotional items.

Overall, screen printed apparel is a popular choice for custom clothing, team uniforms, merchandise, and promotional items due to its durability, versatility, and vibrant colors.