Screen Printing for Attractive Label Solutions

A common misconception about screen printing is that the process is only for printing on clothing. While screen printing is primarily used on t-shirts and other clothing items.  Using screen printing in place of typical printing techniques can help differentiate your brand.  Printers can easily replace the printing unit of one process with a screen unit. This is easy and does not require extensive manual labor. Since the screen units are similar to that of other printing units there is very little difference in operation. Doing this can allow a printer to gain access to other parts of the printing market.  Different printing processes can even be combined to create interesting effects that other printing processes are not able to produce, such as gloss, deep color intensity and even relief. Adding to the appeal, some screen plates are becoming reusable and able to last for longer runs. In a competitive market, cost is a driving factor, and companies are coming out with new technology that offers quality products at a reduced price. Screen printing is also great because it offers more versatile options for packaging and commercial use. The ink that is used in the screen printing process and its application allows for certain textures or raised surfaces.

Screen printing starts with a design, which is then applied to a mesh surface using gel emulsion. The mesh is then stretched across a frame and pulled tight like canvas; this is called a screen. The screen may vary in size depending on the object that is being printed. The ink is then placed on the back of the screen and a squeegee is used the push it through the holes in the mesh and onto the surface of the paper, cloth, etc.  In rotary printing, the screen is in the shape of a cylinder with the squeegee on the inside. The screen would then be rolled over the material, allowing for a quicker print.

Screen printing in a process that can provide attractive solutions for labels and other print media. One characteristic unique to screen printing is that it can be used on a range of materials of any shape, size, or thickness. The material can be printed on the back so the ink can show through and create differing opacities and a smoother appearance. The ink can also be applied in different ways and with multiple ink types to create textures. For instance, if the ink is laid down thicker, the resulting design with have a raised surface. The type of ink used in screen printing allows for color differentiation as well.  Gold and silver foils can be replaced with inks that have a similar look and feel. In such a competitive industry, it essential that each brand and product be as unique as possible. Screen printing allows for effects such as scratch offs, raised text, glitter, and braille.  Even more exciting is the use of screen printing in more advanced applications such as circuits and other printed electronics.

Along with screen printing, however, using the correct material for printing is essential. Masterpiece Graphix offers products that work excellent alongside screen printing techniques.  The Bright Silver Metallized Paper adheres well to many surfaces and creates attention-grabbing labels with special effects for multiple prime label applications. Create a business card that stands out among the rest by screen printing information onto Masterpiece’s C1S stock which is treated for superior ink adhesion and color reproduction.  Combining superior substrates with diverse techniques will create graphics that will last.