Screen printing

 

Screen printing is a printing technique that allows you to reproduce logos and writings on any type of media with impeccable resolution.

How does it work?

In the pre-press phase, the graphic to be reproduced is digitally prepared and it is ensured that it is printable. Once this has been ascertained, the logo is printed on a sheet of transparent acetate, which will be used to create the screen printing frame or stencil. A suitable frame is chosen with a fabric texture suited to the complexity of the logo to be reproduced and is coated with light-reactive emulsion, responsible for creating the printing matrix through a photoengraving process. The transparent acetate is placed on the emulsion-coated frame and the whole thing is exposed to very intense light for a pre-established time. The light hardens the emulsion where the canvas is empty, i.e. without a design, while in correspondence with the design the emulsion remains liquid. For this reason, it is sufficient to rinse the frame with water to bring out the design to be printed on the support. At this point the last phase begins, that of printing on the item to be customized. Using a machine, the frame is positioned on the surface to be printed, with the squeegee, a spatula with a rubber part, the ink is spread evenly on the frame that passes directly onto the support. It is possible to print up to a maximum of 4 colors for which the printing process is repeated one color at a time. To fix the inks, the product is placed in a special oven at 170°.

Some examples of application on promotional items

Screen printing is a very versatile technique because it is suitable for both flat and circular shaped items, and for different materials such as fabric, wood, paper, cork, plastic, metal, ceramic and stainless steel.

Pros and Cons of Screen Printing

Pros

• It is economical, especially with large quantities;
• It is versatile, easily adapts to flat and circular surface products and can be applied to a wide range of materials;
• Deposits very thick layers of ink on almost any surface, creating a raised effect that is very pleasant to the touch;
• High coverage;
• The print is highly resistant to light, mechanical abrasion, therefore scratches, and humidity.

Cons

• Not suitable for reproducing writing or logos with details that are too small and thin;
• You cannot print more than four colors;
• Screen printing does not reproduce shades.