What is screen printing? The standard for quality custom apparel

Before digital printing made it possible to print designs straight from a file, screen printing defined how artwork was applied to fabric. Using thicker inks and separate screens for each colour, it produces solid, even prints that stay consistent across every piece. While newer methods offer speed and detail, screen printing remains trusted for its clarity, consistency, and long-lasting finish on cotton apparel. In this guide, we’ll explore how it works, how it compares to other methods, and why it continues to set the standard for premium custom merch.

Close-up of a red and green mouth graphic screen print on white cotton fabric.

How screen printing works

1

Preparing the screen

A fine mesh screen is stretched tightly over a frame, then coated with a stencil of the artwork. This stencil determines where the ink will pass through and where it will be blocked.

2

Applying the ink

Ink is placed on top of the screen and evenly spread across the surface with a squeegee. The ink passes through the open areas of the stencil, transferring the design onto the fabric beneath.

3

Layering the colours

Each colour in the artwork is printed separately using its own screen. The layers build up to form the complete design, ensuring sharp lines and strong colour coverage.

4

Curing the print

After printing, the garment is heated to cure the ink. This bonds the pigment to the fibres, creating a smooth finish that stays vibrant through repeated wear and washing.

Why brands choose screen printing

  • Consistency at scale
  • Colour accuracy and coverage
  • Durability and longevity
  • Cost efficiency for production
Workers folding and sorting garments in a clean production facility.

Once the screens are set up, every print follows the same calibrated process, ensuring identical colour and placement across large orders. This precision makes screen printing ideal for brands that need consistent results at volume.

Design considerations for screen printing

Screen printing performs best with designs that use solid fills and distinct lines. Fine gradients or small tonal changes can be difficult to reproduce, especially on textured fabrics. Simplified artwork not only prints more cleanly but also creates a stronger visual impact.

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Close-up of a black fabric with white, wavy lines and text, including words like "installation," "fragile," and "coincidence."

Screen printing vs other print methods

  • DTG printing applies ink directly onto fabric, and works best for gradients, detailed or photographic designs. Screen printing uses separate screens for each colour, producing bold, consistent prints suited to simpler artwork and larger runs.

  • DTF transfers designs onto fabric using heat and adhesive. Often promoted as an alternative to screens, the print forms a thin film that can feel plasticky. Screen printing embeds ink into the fabric, giving a soft feel and greater durability.

  • Embroidery stitches thread into fabric for a textured, dimensional finish, ideal for designs that want a crafted feel. Screen printing creates a flat, matte surface that emphasises colour and precision, suited to bold, graphic artwork.

Close-up of white slippers with red text "AREA FENDI" on them, worn by a person with dark skin, against a gray background.

Screen printing at Assembly

At Assembly, screen printing is part of a fully controlled production process. Every custom screen print begins with the garment itself. Our organic cotton pieces are made and dyed in Portugal, then printed in the same facility to ensure precise colour matching between fabric and ink.

We use high-opacity, water-based inks that give a smooth, soft finish without the heavy or plastic feel common in mass-market prints. Each screen is calibrated to the artwork and tested before production, and every batch is reviewed for alignment, coverage, and curing accuracy.

By keeping production, printing, and finishing under one roof, we remove the disconnect between manufacturer and printer. The result is quality screen printing apparel that feels refined, consistent, and built to last from the first piece to the final shipment.

Worker handling large spools of organic cotton at Assembly’s production facility, highlighting sustainable practices in garment dyeing.
Close-up of fabric swatches being inspected during garment dyeing quality control at Assembly.
Person using a touchscreen to select clothing patterns in a garment factory, with fabric pieces displayed on the screen.
Worker handling sweatshirt during dyeing process in factory.
Hands sewing a woven neck label onto a black garment

The lasting value of screen printing

Screen printing remains one of the most trusted methods for premium custom apparel. Its ability to deliver strong colour, clear detail, and long-lasting quality makes it the preferred choice for those who want a refined, durable finish. From custom t-shirts to hoodies and sweatshirts, it offers a timeless look that holds up through wear and production at scale.

At Assembly, we approach every print with that same mindset: thoughtful design, precise execution, and results that reflect the quality of the brand behind them. It’s a process built to last, just like the garments themselves.

Ready to create your own custom screen printed apparel?

Start exploring your design options in Assembly Studio, or discover other ways to customise your merch through our range of printing and embroidery techniques.

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Ready to create your own custom screen printed apparel?

Share a few details and our team will guide you on timelines, fabric options, and the best ways to create premium screen printed apparel.