You’ve heard of screen printing, right? Maybe you ordered t-shirts for your small business or side-hobby? Chances are high those shirts were screen printed. Well, the same concept can be used to print stickers too!
What is screen printing?
Screen printing is an old-school print method where a squeegee is used to push ink through a mesh template, called a screen. That template is created from the design of the artwork and only allows ink to pass through in the exact spot to be printed. Each color of the design requires a different screen. As a result, multi-color designs become labor-intensive works of art.
What’s so special about screen print stickers?
Screen print stickers are outdoor durable, weatherproof, sun proof, and look better than digital print stickers. Screen printing allows for more flexibility with finishes (gloss or matte) and has a larger color spectrum for brand standard color-matching.
Why is screen printing not as popular for stickers anymore?
Screen printing equipment is expensive. The process is labor-intensive. The setup costs are high. The type of supplies needed are cumbersome and seem outdated. Simply put, there are easier ways to produce an acceptable product.
Digital printing became popular in the 2,000’s because of the quick and efficient way to produce small quantities with almost no waste. What used to take several hours can now be produced in a matter of minutes. Plus, the equipment cost can be a fraction of the cost for screen print equipment.
The evolution of technology allowed many new entrants into the sticker printing world with a seemingly easier way to produce the product. But, easy isn’t always better. That saying is absolutely true when talking about stickers and decals.
Is screen printing always more expensive than digital printing?
Not at all! When print quantities get above a certain threshold, screen printing is much more efficient than digital printing and yields a lower price point. That threshold is dependent on a number of factors including the number of colors, quantities, and part size. Working with a sticker printing expert is the best way to make sure you are choosing the right product for your project!
What gets lost in a digital print world?
Screen printing gives colors a richness that can’t be achieved through digital printing. The bold, glossy colors and texture of the ink are eye-catching and fascinating. Screening a print helps the images come to life.
