Want bold, lasting designs on your custom tees? Discover why silkscreen printing remains a top pick.
When it comes to decorating fabric, few methods carry the same reputation as silkscreen printing. It has been around for decades, and while modern printing methods like DTF and sublimation have gained popularity, silkscreen continues to stand tall as a trusted favourite. From its durability to its bold colour results, silkscreen is often the go-to choice for businesses, teams, and individuals looking for quality that truly lasts.
Silkscreen printing is a time-tested method of applying designs to fabric. In simple terms, ink is pushed through a fine mesh screen (hence the name “screen printing”) that has been prepared with your design. Each colour requires its own screen, so the process can be quite detailed and hands-on.
The result? Bold, opaque prints that stand out brilliantly on light or dark fabrics. Because the ink is applied in thick layers, the design feels solid to the touch and holds up well over time. Unlike digital printing, which lays colour on top in thin coats, silkscreen printing penetrates deeper into the fabric fibres, giving your custom apparel a vibrant and long-lasting look.
Silkscreen printing has stood the test of time for good reason. Here are its main advantages:
These benefits make silkscreen an industry standard for businesses and events that need professional, eye-catching prints at scale.
Silkscreen shines brightest in situations where durability and large-scale consistency matter.
Silkscreen is ideal for printing in bulk, such as promotional giveaways, charity events, or company campaigns. Because the setup is efficient for large runs, businesses save costs while still getting sharp, vibrant designs.
Schools, sports teams, and event organisers often rely on silkscreened t-shirts and polos for a unified, professional look. Merchandise like concert tees or festival wear also benefits from the technique, ensuring prints stay vibrant even after repeated washes.
For example, imagine a university sports team that needs matching shirts for an inter-college competition. Silkscreen printing allows them to create uniforms that not only look sharp but also hold up through games, sweat, and frequent washing.
Silkscreen printing has stood the test of time as the go-to method for bold, lasting designs. Even with the rise of new technologies, it continues to dominate the custom apparel market worldwide.
Overall, silkscreen printing remains the classic, trusted method for custom apparel. Its balance of affordability, durability, and bold results ensures it will stay highly relevant even as new technologies emerge.
If you’re considering silkscreen for your next custom order, here are some tips to make sure you get the best outcome:
At CUSTA, our professional design support team can help you adjust your artwork so it’s optimised for silkscreen, ensuring your project looks flawless from start to finish.
Make your designs last with bold, vibrant prints. Explore CUSTA’s silkscreen printing today and create custom clothing that stands out. Our team is ready to bring your vision to life with quality you can trust.
Yes! Silkscreen prints are known for their durability. With proper care, the designs can withstand dozens of washes without significant fading.
You can use multiple colours, but keep in mind that each one requires a separate screen. For cost efficiency, most customers stick to 1–3 colours per design.
Absolutely. Silkscreen is one of the most cost-effective options for printing in large quantities, which is why it’s widely used for events, uniforms, and merchandise.
It works best with bold, simple graphics. While it can handle some fine lines, extremely detailed or photo-like designs are better suited to digital printing methods.