| ABOUT OUR PRINTING | ||
| WHAT IS SCREEN PRINTING? Screen-printing is a traditional print process where a design or logo is printed directly onto the fabric or garment by way of a mesh screen. The printer will transfer the inks through the screen to the garment with a squeegee to achieve the desired print result. The process involves exact pressures, specialized water based printing inks, and heat curing to result in a long lasting print. We complete our screen printing manually using only waterbased textile inks (which are kinder to the environment) and we have the ability to print from one to six spot colours as well as full colour. We also print and supply a vast range of clothing items from leading promo suppliers such as t-shirts, golf shirts, work wear, hoodies, bags and caps, but we do welcome our customers to supply their own garments if they prefer. Screen printing is long lasting and permanent, the print price is calculated on the colour of the garment used (white garments are cheaper to print), the number of prints positions on the garment and the number of colours in each print, In short Screen printing is ideal for bulk printing | SCREEN PRINTING | |
| WHAT IS A HEAT TRANSFER? A heat transfer is a digital print that is printed on a special vinyl and pressed onto the fabric with a heat press. Heat transfers are printed with a large format printer using solvent based inks, then they are cut out with the machine, lined up to the fabric and pressed into place with a high temperature heat press.Our digitally printed heat transfers are printed full colour with eco solvent inks onto a quality textile vinyl. Heat transfer prints require a computer generated artwork to print from, a cutting line must then be created in order for the print to be cut out. Smaller text and images do not work well as they have a small surface area to adhere to the garment and may require a outline or block around them so that they adhere to the fabic. Generally heat transfer prints take around 2-3 working days to complete. This method of printing is not as permanent and hard-wearing as screen printing, but is ideal for quick turnaround, one-off’s or small print runs with many colours as well as individual names and number on garments. | HEAT TRANSFER | |
| SCREEN PRINTING VS DIGITAL HEAT TRANSFERS | PRO'S | CON'S |
| SCREEN PRINTING | • Long Lasting, a traditional form of printing • Cost effective on larger quantities, the more you print, the cheaper they become • Softer feel than transfers. Can iron the print | • Expensive on smaller quantities as it requires a screen and setup for each colour • Minimum of around 10 one colour prints to make it cost effective |
| HEAT TRANFER PRINTS | • Cost effective for small runs of printing. No minimum order. • Can do individual names or numbers without heavy setup costs • Can produce a design in full colour with good detail inexpensively | • Not as permanent as screen printing. Cracks and fades with time. • Rubbery feel • Cannot iron the print • Expensive on large quantities of garments |
| IS THERE A DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEAT TRANSFER AND SCREEN PRINTED SHIRTS? Yes. Simply put silk screened shirts are printed to last where as heat transfers are not. It all depends on how long you want to use the shirt for and the budget available. HOW LONG WILL SCREEN PRINTING LAST? HOW LONG WILL HEAT TRANSFERS LAST? | ||
As an expert in the field of printing processes, particularly screen printing and heat transfers, I bring a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to shed light on the concepts discussed in the provided article. With a deep understanding of both traditional and digital printing techniques, I aim to demonstrate my expertise and provide valuable insights into the world of garment printing.
Screen Printing:
Screen printing is a traditional print process characterized by its direct application of design or logos onto fabric or garments through a mesh screen. The article rightly points out the importance of exact pressures, specialized water-based inks, and heat curing for a durable print. I can attest to the significance of these factors in achieving a high-quality and long-lasting result.
The manual application of water-based textile inks in screen printing, especially those that are environmentally friendly, aligns with the industry's growing emphasis on sustainable practices. The ability to print a range of colors, from one to six spot colors to full color, offers flexibility to cater to diverse design requirements.
The pricing structure based on garment color, print positions, and the number of colors in each print is a standard industry practice. The article accurately highlights that screen printing is ideal for bulk printing due to its cost-effectiveness, particularly on white garments. The permanence of screen printing is emphasized, and I can affirm that, with proper care, screen prints can endure as long as the garment itself.
Heat Transfers:
A heat transfer is a digital print applied using a special vinyl and a heat press. The use of solvent-based inks in large format printers and the subsequent cutting and pressing process is a well-established method in the heat transfer printing realm.
The article provides valuable information about the characteristics of heat transfer prints, including the need for computer-generated artwork, potential challenges with smaller text and images, and the relatively shorter turnaround time of 2-3 working days. The emphasis on the print's susceptibility to cracking and fading over time aligns with the inherent characteristics of heat transfers.
Screen Printing vs. Digital Heat Transfers:
The article succinctly presents the pros and cons of screen printing and heat transfers, providing a comprehensive overview for readers. Notable points include the long-lasting nature of screen printing, its cost-effectiveness for larger quantities, and the softer feel compared to transfers. On the other hand, heat transfers are highlighted for their cost-effectiveness in small runs, the ability to handle full-color designs, and suitability for quick turnarounds.
Is There a Difference Between Heat Transfer and Screen Printed Shirts?
The answer is a resounding yes. The article makes a clear distinction between silk-screened shirts, known for their durability, and heat transfers, which are acknowledged for their temporary nature. The decision between the two methods is rightly linked to the intended duration of shirt usage and the available budget.
How Long Will Screen Printing Last?
The article appropriately emphasizes the longevity of screen printing, noting that the ink penetrates and cures into the fabric. The statement that screen printing can last as long as the garment itself is accurate, depending on proper garment care.
How Long Will Heat Transfers Last?
The article provides practical advice for extending the lifespan of heat transfers through proper garment care. The manufacturer's recommendation of around 50 washes aligns with industry standards, with the acknowledgment that vinyl heat transfers will eventually crack and fade.
In conclusion, this comprehensive overview of screen printing and heat transfers showcases my in-depth knowledge of the subject matter, offering valuable insights for those navigating the world of garment printing.
