Screen printing is a versatile and effective method for creating high-quality custom apparel, perfect for businesses, events, and organizations. At Imperial Custom Printing, we offer custom apparel, custom banners, and live event printing, but we specialize in bulk custom screen printing! Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how we achieve professional results on your screen printed apparel.
**To see visual examples from our gallery, click here!
Step 1: Design Preparation
The screen printing process begins with preparing the design. Our clients submit their artwork, or we assist in creating a design that matches their vision. High-resolution vector files work best for screen printing to ensure clarity and sharpness in the final print.
Step 2: Choosing the Right Apparel
Selecting the right apparel is crucial for the best results. At Imperial Custom Printing, we offer a wide range of garments, from cotton t-shirts to performance wear, polos, and more! We help our customers choose the right fabric type and color for their custom apparel needs.
Step 3: Creating the Screens
Once the design is finalized, we move on to screen creation. Each color in the design requires a separate screen. The steps include:
- Coating the screen with a photosensitive emulsion.
- Printing the design on a transparent film.
- Exposing the screen to UV light, which hardens the emulsion except where the design blocks the light.
- Washing out the unhardened emulsion, leaving a stencil for printing.
This step is very precise and must be performed carefully to make sure the stencil comes out perfect. The print is only as good as the stencil is, so we have our process dialed in to ensure a sharp print every time!
Step 4: Setting Up the Press
The screen printing press is then prepared for production. Each screen is aligned meticulously for perfect registration using various knobs on the press. Proper setup ensures that every print is sharp, clear, and consistent.
Step 5: Mixing the Ink
The ink used in screen printing can make or break the quality of the final product. We use high-quality, long-lasting inks suitable for a variety of apparel types. We offer both plastisol and water-based inks, depending on the project’s requirements.
Step 6: Printing the Design
With the press ready, we begin the actual printing process, starting with a test print:
- The garment is placed on the platen.
- Each screen is lowered and ink is pressed through the screen using a squeegee.
- The process is repeated for each color in the design, ensuring precise alignment and vibrant results.
Once the test print is acceptable, we then begin to print your order!
Step 7: Curing the Ink
Once the garments are printed, they need to be cured to ensure the ink sets properly. We use a professional-grade conveyor dryer, ensuring the ink reaches the right temperature for durability and wash resistance. This step ensures the prints last for years without fading or cracking.
Step 8: Quality Control
Quality is a top priority at Imperial Custom Printing. Each item undergoes a thorough quality check to ensure the print is flawless, the ink is properly cured, and the garment meets our high standards.
Step 9: Packing and Delivery in Omaha
After passing quality control, the printed garments are folded, packed, and prepared for delivery. We offer local delivery within Omaha and ship nationwide for larger orders.
Why Choose Imperial Custom Printing for Screen Printing in Omaha, Nebraska?
- Local Expertise: As an Omaha-based screen printing business, we understand the needs of local businesses and events.
- High-Quality Materials: We use premium garments and inks for long-lasting prints.
- Experienced Team: Our team has years of experience in the screen printing industry, ensuring expert craftsmanship.
Whether you need bulk t-shirts for a corporate event, custom hoodies for your team, or promotional merchandise for a fundraiser, Imperial Custom Printing has you covered. Contact us today for a quote and let’s bring your designs to life!
