When designing a custom t-shirt, the possibilities are endless for various reasons. First, the design that will be printed onto the shirt is limited only my your imagination. Whether you want to use photos, graphics, one color, or multiple colors, you have a blank canvas and an infinite number of possibilities.
Another aspect that does, to some degree, have a limited number of choices is the method in which your design will be applied to the custom t-shirt, sweatshirt, or any other piece of apparel. While the choices may not be endless, you still have a great deal of options from which you can choose.
And then there is screen-printing which uses a mesh screen to transfer ink onto a fabric.
First, we do have to say, that we are a screen-printing company in St. Louis, so we are obviously biased when it comes to deciding which option for apparel printing is best. Having said that, we can have easily switched to sublimation, DTF, or DTG printing years ago. Those methods take significantly less time and work than screen printing, but they simply do not have the same quality.
Each has its own benefit and you can find countless articles comparing Screen-Printing vs Direct-to-Garment for t-shirt designs, so there are plenty of additional resources to help you understand the pros and cons of each method.
Screen printing for apparel and other fabrics is one of the oldest (if not the oldest) methods used. In fact, it dates all the way back to China’s Song Dynasty in the 1100s. Yes, you read that right. Screen printing has been around for almost 1,000 years.
The reason screen printing has been used for nearly a millennium: it has always been the best way to create eye-catching designs with outstanding durability.
At that time, they used things like stenciles made from paper and mesh made from human hair, and the primary use was for applying colors and designs to silk apparel and decor.ย Over time, it spread to other countries in Asia and became extremely popular in Japan shortly after.
Some European countries had begun experimenting with the transfer method in the 17th century, but it eventually became more commonplace in the 18th century when countries like France really began utilizing it for many different purposes.
Like Europe, screen printing could be found in some parts of the United States earlier on, but it eventually gained traction and became one of the most popular ways to transfer designs to fabrics.
Using squeegees rather than brushes to apply the dye or paint was a huge step in increasing its usability. Then, in the 1900s (some sources say 1910s others 1930s), three American scientists are credited for revolutionizing screen printing for commercial purposes with their creation of photoreactive/photo-imaged stencils. This provided an easier, safer, and more reliable form of screen printing.
Screen printings popularity continued to grow and in the 1940s, the National Serigraph Society was formed by artists to promote their admiration of serigraphs (screen printing) being used as a medium for artists.
In the 1960s, screen printing became eternal when artist Andy Warhol began regularly using it as a method for transferring his artwork to canvases.
Like everything that withstands the tests of time, the screen printing method has evolved thanks to modern tools and technology, but the fundamental principles used nearly 1,000 years ago have essentially remained intact.
Unlike most evolutions that include finding cheaper solutions that decrease the quality, the modernization of squeegees, mesh, stencils, machinery, paints and dyes has helped not only with its accessibility but has also increased the longevity of screen-printed apparel.
The point is, it is very rare to see any sort of technology/method – especially in the world of design – withstand the tests of time as long as screen printing has.
And while new methods have become available over time that have made the process quicker or required less space or machinery, none have been able to create results that match that of screen printing.
When it comes to durability, Screen Printing remains the undisputed champion. The ink used in this process permeates the fabric, creating a bond that withstands the test of time. Unlike other methods, where designs may fade or peel after a few washes, screen-printed shirts maintain their brilliance, making them a long-lasting investment for individuals and businesses alike.
In an era where sustainability is paramount, screen printing aligns with eco-friendly practices. The inks we use are often water-based which reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional printing methods. This commitment to sustainability not only meets the growing demand for eco-conscious choices but also positions screen printing as a responsible and forward-thinking option.
Looking to use the timeless method of screen printing to bring your design to life? Left Hand Promotions offers custom screen printing for hoodies, custom sweatshirt printing, t-shirts, and more. Feel free to contact us to find out more and get a quote for your project!
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