Screen printing is one of the most durable and popular methods for marking clothing. Although it has many advantages, it also has certain limitations and is not always a universal solution for every project. In this article, we will discuss the main limitations of this printing method and its alternatives.
Limitations of screen printing
High costs for small runs
Screen printing requires preparing screens (stencils) for each print color. This process is time-consuming and costly, so it is not cost-effective to print small quantities or single pieces.
Better alternative: DTG, DTF printing, or flex foil – ideal for small orders.Limited number of colors in the print
Not every design can be made using screen printing. This applies to designs with more than 10 colors as well as those with many tonal transitions, e.g. photos. Each color in screen printing requires a separate screen, which increases costs and production time. As a result, multicolor prints can be expensive and difficult to produce.
Better alternative: DTG or DTF printing – ideal for complex designs.Problems with very fine details
Although screen printing allows for precise designs, printing very fine elements may fail. Small letters or patterns can be flooded or invisible because the mesh of the screen has limitations in precision.
Better alternative: Screen print heat transfer – ideal for labels printed on yokes and small designs.Placement
Screen printing works best on flat surfaces such as t-shirts, large bags, and backs of sweatshirts. It cannot be applied in hard-to-reach places like pockets, sleeves, small bags, or very close to seams.
Better alternative: Screen print heat transfer, DTF, flex foil, flock foil.Limitations on type of material
Screen printing works best on cotton and cotton blends with a small addition of polyester. If the material is slippery, has uneven texture, or is made entirely of polyester, the ink may lose adhesion. Screen printing is not possible on leather and waterproof materials.
Better alternative: Screen print heat transfer, DTF, flex foil, flock foil, sublimation.Long production time
Screen printing requires a long preparation time. The process involves many stages, such as creating and printing films, exposing the screens, mixing inks, and the printing process itself.
Better alternative: DTF printing – does not require time-consuming preparation.
When is screen printing the best solution?
Despite the described limitations, screen printing works particularly well when:
You want high print quality
You want the print to be durable
You order large quantities (from 25 pieces)
You print on natural fabrics
The design does not require many colors
Screen printing is the best technique for large runs. It is characterized by durability, print quality, and a rich palette of intense colors. If you need fast printing, small quantities, and photo-realistic prints, alternative methods such as DTF, DTG, heat transfer, or flex foil will be better solutions.
