How Screen Printing Works: A Beginner Overview
Updated: 21 hours ago
From artwork to a printed garment
Screen printing applies ink through a prepared screen to create a design. This overview explains the process so you can understand a professional order. Equipment, inks and garment requirements vary; follow the relevant manufacturer's instructions for any DIY work.
Design and screen preparation
The artwork and intended print size are reviewed before the screens are prepared. The design affects the required preparation. When ordering from WCT, send what you have; artwork assistance is available.
Garment and print setup
The actual material and design placement need review. Screens and ink are prepared for the job before printing begins. A suitable setup is specific to the garment and design rather than one recipe for every item.
Understanding the basic equipment
A screen uses a frame and mesh to hold the design stencil. A squeegee moves ink across it, while the ink must suit the intended surface. Different ink systems and equipment have different preparation and finishing requirements.
Printing and finishing
The design is printed and finished using the requirements for the chosen materials. Exact process settings must come from the ink and equipment guidance, not an unsourced universal temperature or time.
Ordering from Wow! Custom Tees
There is no minimum for our printing methods. Screen printing is not routine same-day; next day is the earliest possible completion, not a guarantee. Send artwork, garment details, quantity and deadline for a quote.
Common questions
Is there a minimum order?
There is no minimum order for our printing methods. We welcome a single custom piece as well as larger printing orders. We review the garment, design, quantity and deadline before confirming the method, price and completion time.
Can you screen print an order the same day?
Screen printing is not our routine same-day option because the screens and ink need preparation. Next-day completion is the earliest possible turnaround, not a guarantee. For suitable garments needed today, ask about DTF or vinyl printing.
Does my artwork need to be print-ready?
No. Send the artwork or idea you have, and our team can help with preparation. Tell us the intended design size, placement and garment. We review what is needed and include preparation when confirming the quote and turnaround.
