Screen printing, what exactly is it?
Like other printing techniques on fabrics, screen printing is one of the most popular printing methods to date and one of the oldest. In this article, we will discover everything you need to know about screen printing.
Screen printing: definition and history
Screen printing is a method that has been around for millennia as it is the most ancient form of printing. According to historians, the Chinese were the first to perfect this technique during the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD).
Silk-screen printing arrived in Europe in the 18th century, however, flourishing and succeeding after the 20th century due to the increased cost of silk at that time.
How does screen printing work?
Screen printing is a direct printing technique. It allows the ink to be deposited directly onto the fabric. It is a process that can be done by hand or using a machine but the basic process is always the same.
The differences can be found in the type of ink used, the final result and the surface on which we print. Below is the step-by-step printing process:
BENEFITS OF SILK PRINTING
When considering using screen printing technology for your designs, it is worth considering its benefits which are multiple. Some of its benefits include:
FLEXIBILITY
One of the main advantages of screen printing is its flexibility. It can be used on any type of fabric, plastic, wood, glass or even metal. In addition, you can use multiple colors. There is almost unlimited freedom in design when using screen printing.
DURABILITY
Compared to other printing methods, screen printing can apply a thick ink coverage resulting in a durable design. In addition, some coatings and additives can make the ink UV, scratch, moisture and chemical resistant, allowing the products to be used outdoors and in harsh environments without deterioration.
vivid colors
The results of screen printing are characterized by vivid and intense colors that are very difficult to reproduce with other techniques. For multi-patterned designs, different layers are used allowing each color to maintain its own shine.
ECONOMICAL AND EFFECTIVE
Screen printing is an economical method, especially if we look at it in the long run. Once set up, it is relatively easy and quick to print items in large volumes. So we can say that the more you print, the cheaper the price per unit becomes.
INCREDIBLE SPEED AND EFFICIENCY
Screen printing is one of the most efficient and fastest printing techniques once the screen is created. It is an excellent choice if the same design needs to be printed over and over again.
EASY AND CLEAR PROCEDURE
Whether done automatically or manually, the screen printing process is quite easy and straightforward. Furthermore, the required tools are neither expensive nor difficult to replace.
Generally speaking, screen printing is more versatile than other printing techniques as a design can be added to materials of any shape, size and thickness. Therefore, screen printing can be used in many different ways, including:
- Designs on clothes
- Medical devices
- Product labels
- Balloons
- Sports products
- Fabric designs
- Goods
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