Screen printing techniques and specialty finishes
From traditional plastisol printing to raised textures, metallic effects and photo-realistic reproduction. The right technique depends on the artwork, the fabric and the finish you're after.
Techniques with a dedicated page
Puff Screen Printing
Ink that expands during cure for a soft, rounded raised texture.
View serviceHigh-Density Screen Printing
Thick ink deposit with crisp edges, a flat top and bold raised finish.
View serviceSimulated Process Screen Printing
Photo-realistic reproduction using opaque inks separated by color channel.
View serviceDischarge Screen Printing
Removes and redyes cotton fiber for a vintage look with a very soft hand feel.
View serviceWater-Based Screen Printing
Ink that soaks into the fiber for a soft, matte, integrated finish.
View serviceOther inks and finishes we produce
These options are quoted as part of your project and can be combined with each other.
Plastisol
High-opacity solid ink, the standard for most volume production runs.
CMYK four-color process
Four-ink separation for continuous-tone images, mainly on light garments.
Foil
Metallic foil applied over printed adhesive for a mirror-like shine.
Glitter
Ink loaded with reflective particles for accents and eye-catching details.
Metallic ink
Metallic pigment in silver, gold or copper depending on the project.
Glow-in-the-dark
Photoluminescent pigment that charges under light and glows in the dark.
How we choose the right technique
These are the factors we weigh when recommending the right technique for your project.
Type of artwork
Flat vector art, a photographic image and a gradient each call for a different technique.
Fabric and garment color
Fabric composition and base color determine the ink, mesh and cure settings.
Desired finish
A soft hand feel, a bold raised texture, metallic shine or a vintage look each point to a different process.
Run size
Volume determines whether the project runs on an automatic screen printing press or a manual station.
Frequently asked questions
Can you combine multiple techniques on the same garment?
Yes, as long as the cure sequence allows it — for example high-density over a plastisol base, or discharge with foil.
What technique do you recommend if I'm not sure which one I need?
Send us your artwork, garment color and a visual reference of the finish you're after, and we'll recommend the technique along with its production implications.
Do specialty techniques require larger minimum quantities?
There's no rigid minimum. Volume runs go on automatic presses, and specialty projects can run on manual stations.
Do you produce a sample before the full run?
Yes. We dial in registration, ink deposit and cure on your actual garment before running production.
Request a quote for a specialty technique
Share your quantity, garment and desired finish so we can review the right technique for your project.
Get a quote for a specialty finish
Send us the artwork, garment and quantity and we'll work out the right technique together.