Garment printing has been in vogue lately with small businesses as well as individuals using it to promote their brands. It is a trendy and unique way to get your logo printed on T-shirts, hats and other clothing items that can make your brand stand out and catch the attention of potential customers scrolling through their social media feeds. However, it is not just about catching the attention of potential consumers, it also brings along numerous unseen benefits that can help your business in the long run.
A screen printer first creates a stencil for the design they wish to print on a particular item of clothing. They do this by coating a transparent mesh screen with a light-reactive emulsion. Then, they place an acetate sheet with the desired design onto the screen and expose it to bright light that hardens the parts of the acetate sheet covered by the stencil. Then, the screen is ready for printing.
Screen printing can be used to print on different types of items and fabrics including vinyl, fabric and rigid plastic. One screen can be used to produce a number of similar items which is why it is often preferred for large orders. It also allows a greater range of colours to be printed than digital printing, and the printing can be heat cured which makes it durable.
Unlike digital printing where the ink lies on the surface of the fabric, garment printing uses inks that are bonded to the fibres of the fabric. This ensures that the logo is not only durable but it can withstand repeated washing without cracking or degrading. There are also specialist inks that can be used such as glittery, texturised and puff inks which can expand to create a raised surface or texture on the finished product.