Screen Printing vs. Digital Printing

At Custom Ink, we stand behind every printing method—100%. No matter which print style best fits your order, you can count on top-quality results. We're printing perfectionists, so your design will look amazing every time.

Screenprinting
Screen printing involves creating a stencil (printers call this a "screen"), and then using that stencil to apply layers of ink on the printing surface. This is done by using a squeegee to push the ink through the open areas of the stencil, transferring the design onto a product. Each color is applied using a different stencil, one at a time, combined to achieve the final look.

Screen printing is a versatile process that allows us to print on a wide variety of products, from apparel to water bottles, can coolers, mugs, and much more! Screen printing also supports the use of custom colors because the ink can be mixed - similar to how an artist mixes paints! The minimum order quantity on screen printed items exists because of the extra materials and labor time associated with this printing method.

Digital printing
There are two methods of Digital printing offered and each is determined at the product and quantity level to ensure your design comes out looking great! Digital printing is great for designs that require a high amount of detail or photographic quality.

Direct-to-Garmet Printing: This method involves your artwork being processed by a computer, and then printed directly onto the surface of your product. The print is detailed, yet remains flexible since the ink adheres directly to the fibers of the product so it’s comfortable to wear!

Direct-to-Film Printing: This method involves printing a design onto a special film with a coating that helps transfer designs using water-based inks and a special adhesive powder. Then, the design on the film is heat-transferred to the fabric using a heat press machine. This printing method is durable, and the designs are detailed and vibrant.