GUIDE – USA
How screen printing works, and when to use it.
Screen printing is the go-to method for bright, durable prints on runs of 24 or more pieces per design.
Quick answer
Screen printing pushes ink through a fine mesh screen onto the garment, one color at a time, then cures it with heat. It gives bright, durable prints and is the most efficient method for runs of 24 or more pieces per design, especially for logos, text and bold graphics in solid colors.
The process, step by step
- Your artwork is separated into its individual colors.
- A screen is made for each color in the design.
- Garments are loaded onto the press and lined up so every color lands in the same place.
- Ink is pulled through each screen onto the garment.
- The print is heat-cured so it bonds to the fabric and lasts through washing.
- Every piece is checked, folded and packed for delivery.
When screen printing is the right choice
- 24 or more pieces of the same design
- Logos, text and graphics in solid spot colors
- Bright color on dark garments
- Prints that need to stand up to regular washing, like uniforms and event tees
When to consider another method
- Photographic or full-color artwork with many shades: DTG or DTF printing is often a better fit
- A small logo on polos, caps or jackets: embroidery gives a premium finish
- Fewer than 24 pieces of a design: ask us about embroidery, digital printing or transfers
Colors and inks
Each color in a design needs its own screen, so the number of colors affects setup. We print with both water-based and plastisol inks, matched to your Pantone references. U.S. orders are decorated in Georgia with our U.S. production partners.
Questions
What is the minimum order for screen printing?
24 pieces per print design. A left chest logo plus a large back print counts as two designs.
Do I need to separate my artwork into colors?
No. Send vector artwork with Pantone C references and our team prepares it for printing. You approve a free mockup first.
Can you screen print photographs?
Photographic designs can be screen printed using halftones, but full-color digital printing is often the better choice. We recommend the best method in your quote.
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OCC APPAREL – USA
Work with us – get a free quote.
Please complete the form and give as much detail as you can. Attach one artwork file to give us an idea of your design; once we’re in touch we’ll send instructions for the rest.
We print and ship nationwide, quotes are free and no-obligation, and every order gets a professional mockup before production.