In the current market the offer of two different printing methods is known and in ESMAR Inputs we decided to write an atricle that shows the differences between digital printing vs screen printing so that you understand and choose the best option that suits your needs.
Screen printing involves creating a stencil (printers call this a “screen”) to use and apply it in layers of ink on the printing surface. Each color is applied using a different stencil, one at a time, combining them to achieve the final desired finish.
Digital printing is a much more modern process, which involves your design being processed by a computer and then printed directly onto the surface. Digital printing is not a heat transfer, since the ink adheres directly to the fabric or paper as the case may be. Each printing process has its strengths.
Screen printing is the best option for designs that require a high level of strong, high-impact colors, when printing on dark shirts, or for specialty products.
Ink in screen printing is applied thicker than digital printing and results in brighter colors. The fact that these arts are printed by hand also allows for unique products, as the form of printing can manually handle curves or uneven surfaces.
The quantity and costs in the elements printed in screen printing depend on the additional materials and labor time associated with this printing method and is ideal for large productions, a single piece is not viable for this type of process.
Digital printing is best used for items that require high detail and lower production.
The fact that the digital printer does not use screens allows photographic printing, with much more detail than screen printing. As the ink is applied thinner, digital printing is best used on lighter colored shirts for example to allow light effects in the design.
The fact that the design is digitally processed and printed allows for only a single unit order and not high volumes as there are no displays or physical setup.
We hope that this article on screen printing vs. digital printing has been very useful to know which printing technique you should use in each case.