This is the most common printing process. This process is produced by pressing ink on a mesh screen frame using a squeegee onto a product. The product must have a flat surface, as any seams or hems will make the screen jump and distort the artwork. With this process, the artwork can be printed up to a maximum of twelve colours. Please bear in mind that the number of printing colour depends on supplier and the product being branded.
There are three different types of screen printing processes. They are flat-bed, cylinder and rotary. The printing process used will depend on the product that is being branded. These type of printing process can only be printed in solid ink colours, half tones or photographic images cannot be done. A pantone (PMS) colour match can be guaranteed with this printing method.
Flat-bed Screen printing method is used mainly on apparel. The Cylinder and Rotary Screen Printing methods are usually used on items that need a larger print area or that require a wrap print. These items can be compendiums, drink bottles, mugs and pens. These methods are not available for all products.
When screen printing on a coloured surface, it is highly advisable that a white base be applied first in order for the colour/s to have better coverage, this way it can be matched to pantone colours properly. If a white base is not done first, then the risk of the colour appearing incorrect are higher. The white base is mainly done when screen printing onto apparel. There are certain products that a white base cannot be applied, it is advisable to do the logo as a one colour, which means that the logo will be applied twice in order to have a bit more coverage.
The cost of screen printing is based on the amount of colours and product quantity that is being printed at the one time. The set-up fee is based on the amount of colours that is required for the logo/design - for example, if you are printing a two-colour logo on a white garment, you will need 2 screens and 2 films, and you will be charged a total set-up cost. A repeat set-up cost will apply in some cases.
This printing method is also known as heat transfer printing. The artwork is digitally printed on a vinyl decal and applied to a flat surface, using a heat transfer process. This method is commonly used on complex logos, which cannot be reproduced or achieved with any other printing method. Pantone colours cannot always be achieved and, in some cases, it is impossible with this type of method.