Screen printing is the workhorse method for putting a bold, flat logo on fabric. Here’s how a design moves from file to finished print, step by step.
1. Artwork and Screen Preparation
Your logo is separated by color, and each color gets its own mesh screen.
- Vector artwork is preferred for clean color separation
- Each screen is coated in light-sensitive emulsion
- The design is burned onto the screen with UV light — the logo area stays open, the rest blocks ink
2. Ink Mixing
Ink is mixed to match your brand color.
- Pantone references are matched under controlled light
- Different fabric types use different ink: water-based, plastisol or discharge
- Opaque colors might get an underbase layer first
3. The Print Pass
The screen is set on a press and ink is pushed through the open mesh with a squeegee.
- Each screen prints one color at a time, so a 2-color logo is two passes (or two press stations)
- Registration keeps colors aligned on top of each other
- Sheets are carried through the press on a pallet carousel
4. Curing
The printed ink must be cured so it bonds to the fabric and survives washing.
- Garments pass through a dryer that heats the ink to its cure temperature
- Oven temperature and belt speed are calibrated to the ink
- A properly cured print won’t crack, peel or fade in normal use
5. Inspection and Pack
Printed pieces are inspected for pinholes, misregistration or bleed before packing.
- A test wash is often done to confirm durability
- Pieces that fail inspection are reprinted
Watch the Video
Video coming soon to this page. Want to compare screen printing with embroidery for your garment? Read Screen Print vs. Embroidery, or send us your logo for a quote.