Screen Printing

Digital technology may appear to have a monopoly on the design world at the moment, but experts in the printing industry know that traditional printing processes, such as screen printing, are still relevant, reliable and often the best printing solution for businesses. Here we’ll delve into the ins and outs of screen printing so that you are better informed on the best ways in which to custom-brand your corporate gifts, promotional merchandise, workwear or product.

The origins of screen printing

Screen printing, also referred to as silk screen printing, is an ancient form of printing, first invented by artisans from China almost 2000 years ago and then perfected by the Japanese. The Japanese created beautiful designs and used woven silk as the screen, hence the name silk screen printing.

How does the screen printing process work?

Screen printing is the process by which a logo is imposed onto a mesh screen with the blank areas coated with an impermeable substance. Ink is then liberally applied to the top of the screen, and a squeegee pushes the ink through the screen in the areas where the logo has been imposed onto the surface of the product. Colours are printed one at a time, so accuracy is essential. This branding method is ideal for branding flat or cylindrical objects with large printing areas. It’s a cost-effective solution for large quantity product branding and it is ideal to use when printing on bags, T-shirts, umbrellas, workwear, coolers, notebooks and folders.

The advantages of screen printing

There are, of course, many different branding methods available for personalising your promotional items, but here are some of the reasons we love screen printing.

It offers a high-quality and durable branding solution

Any screen printer will tell you that this method is guaranteed to be long-lasting, and they’re not lying. The screen printing ink is able to bond over the material of the item, which means the design is super clear and durable. On top of this, the screen printed designs are resistant to fading, scratches and moisture due to additives and coatings added to the ink.

Affordable and best for large orders

Screen printing is a cost-effective option for branding because of the ability of screen printers to mass produce identical graphics on a high quantity of products, with a faster turnaround time than many other branding techniques. It works brilliantly for large and bold logos.

It’s hugely versatile

Screen printing can be applied to a wide range of materials but works especially well on all fabrics, especially natural fabrics like cotton. You can also screen print on cork, polyester, ceramics and plastics. Products that work well include: custom-branded golf-shirts, tote-bags for an event or screen printed backpacks.

The products we love screen printing

You can screen print on nearly anything, but that doesn’t mean we can’t give you a few of our recommendations. Here’s a list of products in our range that work especially well with the screen printing method:

• T-shirts
• Notebooks
• Mouse Pads
• Travel sets
• Cooler bags
• Oven mitts
• Tablet holders
• Towels
• Plush toys
• Workwear
• Golf sets
• Lunch boxes

Interested in finding out more about screen printing near you or screen printing in South Africa? Get in touch with us today to find out more.