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Silk Screen Printing vs. Heat Transfer Vinyl: Which is better?





Silk screen printing, also known as screen printing, is a printing method that has been around for centuries. It involves using a mesh screen to apply ink onto a substrate, creating a durable and long-lasting print. While heat transfer vinyl printing is a popular alternative, silk screen printing remains the superior choice for several reasons.


Wider Color Options Firstly, screen printing offers a much wider range of color options than heat transfer vinyl. With screen printing, you can use a variety of inks, including metallic and fluorescent, which cannot be achieved with other methods. This makes screen printing perfect for companies or individuals who want their designs to stand out and be noticed.


Durability Secondly, screen printing is more durable than heat transfer vinyl printing. The ink is applied directly onto the fabric, ensuring that the design will not crack or peel over time. This makes screen printing ideal for items that will be washed or worn frequently, such as t-shirts or tote bags.


Cost-Effective Thirdly, screen printing is more cost-effective than heat transfer press vinyl printing for larger orders. While the setup costs for screen printing can be higher, the cost per item decreases as the quantity increases. This means that screen printing is the best option for bulk orders or large-scale projects.

In conclusion, while heat transfer vinyl has its benefits, screen printing remains the superior choice for printing on textiles. With its wide range of color options, durability, and cost-effectiveness, it is the perfect choice for companies and individuals who want high-quality, long-lasting prints.


New City Screen Printing primarily uses the screen printing method, but we also offer heat transfer printing when our customers want a detailed photo image and/or have a smaller quantity order. Contact New City Screen Printing today to learn more about our printing methods and what is best for your apparel order.


To request a quote, click here.

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