top of page

What is Screen Printing?

 

Screen printing is a printing technique where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto a substrate (such as fabric, paper, or plastic) using a stencil. This process creates bold, vibrant, and long-lasting prints, making it a popular choice for custom apparel, posters, and merchandise.

 

Advantages of Screen Printing

  • Durability – Prints withstand multiple washes without fading.

  • Vibrant Colors – The thick ink application results in bold and opaque designs.

  • Cost-Effective for Bulk Orders – The more you print, the lower the cost per unit.

  • Versatility – Works on fabrics, wood, metal, glass, and more.

Disadvantages of Screen Printing​

​Limited Detail – Fine details can be difficult to reproduce.

Set-Up Time – Preparing screens for each color in a design can be time-consuming.

Not Ideal for Small Runs – The setup cost makes it less economical for low-quantity orders.

Common Uses of Screen Printing​

Custom T-shirts, hoodies, and apparel

  • Posters and artwork

  • Tote bags and promotional merchandise

  • Industrial and commercial labeling

  • Glass and metal printing

How Does Screen Printing Work?

​

The screen printing process involves several steps:

  1. Design Preparation – The artwork is created digitally and then printed onto a transparent film.

  2. Screen Preparation – A mesh screen is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion.

  3. Exposure & Rinsing – The design is transferred onto the screen using UV light. The unexposed areas wash away, creating a stencil.

  4. Printing Process – Ink is spread across the screen, and a squeegee pushes it through onto the material.

  5. Curing the Print – The printed item is dried using heat to set the ink permanently.

  6. Final Inspection – The product is checked for quality before being shipped or worn.​

​

Why should you use Screen Printing?

​Screen printing is a tried-and-true printing method known for its quality, durability, and bold designs. Whether you're printing T-shirts, posters, or promotional items, it's an excellent choice for businesses and creatives alike.

More to read up on about screen printing

3D Puff Screen Printing: Make Your Designs Pop

 

At Northline Print Co., we’re always looking for ways to help your apparel stand out. One of our most requested specialty techniques is 3D Puff Screen Printing—a method that adds raised, textured dimension to your design so it literally pops off the garment.

 

 

What is 3D Puff Screen Printing?

Puff printing is created by mixing a heat-activated additive into the ink. When cured, the ink expands and creates a bold, three-dimensional texture. It’s eye-catching, durable, and gives any logo or graphic a premium look and feel.

Why Choose Puff Printing?

  • Bold & Unique Look – Perfect for logos, team names, or designs that need extra impact.

  • Adds Value – Customers immediately notice the raised texture, giving your merch a higher-end appearance.

  • Versatile – Works great on hoodies, T-shirts, hats, tote bags, and more.

  • Long Lasting – When cured correctly, puff prints are durable and stand up to everyday wear.

Design Tips for Best Results

  • Keep designs bold and simple – chunky text and clean graphics look the best.

  • High contrast colors make the puff effect more noticeable.

  • Heavier garments like hoodies and crews give the puff ink extra lift.

Care Instructions

To keep puff prints looking their best:

  • Wash inside out, in cold water.

  • Air dry when possible (high heat can flatten the puff).

  • Never iron directly on the design.

Let’s Make Your Next Project Stand Out

Whether you need branded merch, team gear, or a one-of-a-kind design, puff printing is a great way to make an impression.

 

Ready to bring your logo to life? Contact Northline Print Co. today for a quote or to see samples in person.

IMG_7946.HEIC
bottom of page