The term printing invariably invokes images from old newsreels, television shows and movies of paper being fed through large printing presses as the latest, breaking news in the local or national newspaper hits the news stands. Particularly, since the advent of personal computers and home printing devices such as laser and inkjet printers, the concept of printing is almost always associated with the process of applying ink to paper. However, in the wide, wide world of printing, there are other processes and technologies used to apply ink to not only paper, but a wide variety of surfaces and substrates. Today, we’re going to talk about screen printing.
What is Screen Printing?
As its name implies, screen printing — also know as silkscreen or serigraph printing (serigraphy) — uses a screen tightly stretched across a frame with a cut-out stencil (or multiple stencils) that allow ink to be pressed through (in the areas not covered by the stencil) the screen on to the surface to be printed. Traditionally, screen printing was performed manually with impressions being made one-at-a-time. However, today the process has been automated with silkscreen presses able to create multiple impressions in a single operation.
What is the Screen Printing Process?
First, the design to be printed is made into a stencil and is attached to the frame holding the screen. The frame/stencil assemble is then lowered or placed over the substrate to be printed. Ink is applied and pressed through the screen by a firm though flexible squeegee blade (made of rubber, synthetic rubber, or polyurethane) that moves from top to bottom (or vice versa) as it passes through the frame. The number and fineness (diameter or thickness) of the threads used to make the screen determines how much detail or definition will be produced in the printed image. Traditionally, silk thread was used to make screens. However, today polyester or stainless steel thread is more commonly used to make the screen.
Can Screen-Printed Designs Use More than One Color?
Yes, but colors have to be applied one at a time utilizing different screens and stencils. And, depending on if the design requires colors to overlap, there will need to be drying time between the application of additional colors. Registration or precise alignment between successive application of ink is also critical so as to insure each color occupies its intended space. While most screen-printed items utilize one or two colors, it is possible to print full-color designs using a 4-color screen printing press.
Advantages of Screen Printing
The screen printing process is particularly well suited to printing on substrates other than paper. It can be used to print designs on vinyl, plastic, metal, glass, foam board, and most frequently: fabric. Colors are more vibrant and saturated as the application of the ink creates a thicker, more opaque film on the substrate. Fluorescent inks work particularly well for screen-printed items. Durability is a huge plus as the heavier ink application means designs can last far longer. And, as with traditional paper-printed items, coatings and additives can be added to make the ink more resistant to UV radiation, moisture, chemicals, and abrasion/scuffing. Hence, screen-printed items can last in harsh, outdoor environments for years without fading.
What Kinds of Products/Items use Screen Printing
By no means an exhaustive list, here are some common items for which it’s advantageous to use the screen printing process:
- Clothing Apparel (e.g., t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, etc.)
- Banners (Indoor & Outdoor)
- Yard Signs
- Bumper Stickers
- Decals
- Labels
- Door Hangers
- Posters
In other words, many items commonly printed using offset press technology can be printed via the screen printing process.
If you have any questions about screen printing, give us a call at 330-597-8560. We’re happy to help you get the most out of your printing project.
Photo by Đồng Phục Hải Triều
