Screen Printing
Screen printing is a process by which an image is imposed onto a specialized mesh creating a stencil. Inks or coatings are pushed through the apertures in the mesh by way of a squeegee under pressure and transferred onto a substrate. Also know as “silk screen” printing, this process can be used on a variety of surfaces with an array of ink types to create unique effects unavailable via other processes.
How Screen Printing Works
Screen printing or serigraphy is essentially a stencil process whereas the image is imposed onto a specialized mesh (screen) which allows the ink to be transferred onto the printing surface. Inks or coatings are pushed through the apertures in the mesh by way of a squeegee under pressure. True screen printing delivers unique tactile effects that can’t be duplicated with modern inkjet or laser technology. Inks are generally opaque, therefor certain designs and effects are easily achieved.
Our modern screen printing process utilizes UV Curing technology which allows instant drying of the inks or coatings, eliminating the traditional drying and cumbersome racking issues. Additionally, there are few limitations in terms of substrates including synthetic, cloth, ceramic, metallic and rigid materials.
Screen Printing Inks and Coatings
Screen printing offers the widest array of decoration effects. Clear matte and gloss, glow-in-the-dark, scratch-off, glitter, grit, fluorescent, opaque and semi-opaque, metallic, light reflective and latex. The list is always growing. We also offer a full palette of Pantone Matching System (PMS) color simulations and can match colors on projects that include other processes such as offset lithography or digital printing.
Why We Love Screen Printing (or “Silk Screening”)
Large solid areas are easily achieved — smart designers take advantage of the overprint and opaque characteristics to bring their creations to life. Because no two prints are ever identical, we literally create one-of-a kind works that carry with it, a hand crafted human element. The heavy bodied inks deliver a certain nuance that is easily distinguished, but often misunderstood — clients sometimes say “I love the feeling of this piece and I just don’t know why”. We think its a sensory thing.
Ready to produce your own Screen Printing?
Click here to request a quote. Not sure what printing processes or materials are best suited for your project? We love collaborating with brands on print projects! Our designers can help you source the best inks, paper stocks and finishing options. Call 516-485-9000 today!
Screen Printing Examples
Explore the fine examples of Screen Printing produced here at DATAGRAPHIC! You can filter the examples by material type and product.
