In the screen printing industry, there’s an ongoing debate about the qualities that define the best screen printers. While some argue it’s all about creativity, others focus on skill, precision, and adaptability. The best screen printers who work with plastisol ink distinguish themselves by producing high-quality prints with vibrant colors, sharp detail, and long-lasting durability. Let’s explore how the best screen printers in the industry use great artwork, skillful ink room modifications, precise on-press adjustments, and finally, meticulous attention to detail to make their plastisol ink printing stand out for superior quality.
1. Great Artwork and Design Creativity
One hallmark of an excellent screen printer is the ability to create and work with great artwork. Great design is essential to a successful screen print because the quality of the design directly impacts the visual appeal and printability of the finished product. Outstanding screen printers possess a keen eye for design and an understanding of how to adapt artwork specifically for screen printing.. Unlike other inks, plastisol sits on the surface of the fabric, which alters the way colors and details appear in the final print. The best printers know how to work with these properties to enhance the vibrancy, durability and appeal of their designs.
Plastisol ink is especially well-suited for detailed artwork because it maintains its opacity and sharpness. Great screen printers take full advantage of this quality, pushing the boundaries of color blending, gradients, and fine line work. Focusing on design quality ensures their printers are visually compelling and stand out in a competitive market. Many successful screen printers are also skilled graphic artists or collaborate with talented designers to ensure their prints are not just technically proficient but also aesthetically impressive.
2. Excellent Ink Room Modification and Preparation
Screen printers who master the art of plastisol ink printing tend to stand out, as they combine artistry with technical expertise and attention to detail. Plastisol ink, a versatile, durable ink is the most used ink for garment printing. Plastisol ink performs best when used and modified to match the requirements of each individual job.
The ink room is the nerve center of any screen printing operation. Proper preparation and modification of plastisol ink are critical for achieving high-quality results. The very best screen printers in the country, and around the world, know this. The best screen printers all have Ink Rooms, with scales, ink mixers, and a full array of ink modifiers. The best screen printers rarely “use the ink right out of the bucket!” Inks are modified and adjusted to the needs of the printing press, artwork and final image characteristic desired
Plastisol ink, unlike water-based inks, provides brilliant color, does not dry in the screen, and is easier to print. Further, plastisol inks are easier to flash, easier to cure and require no special emulsion, making the screens easier to reclaim as well. Mastering ink modification involves adjusting viscosity, color matching, and incorporating additives to achieve specific effects like puff, soft-hand finishes, screen clearing, build-up and so forth.
Top screen printers know how to adjust plastisol ink to meet the specific requirements of each job. For instance, they may need to add a reducer to thin the ink for finer details or a thickener for bolder prints. This level of expertise is often what separates the best printers from the rest. They also understand the importance of color consistency, especially in multi-color prints, and take steps to ensure that the ink mix remains uniform throughout the print run. Controlling these variables creates reliable, consistent results that clients can trust.
3. Precise On-Press Adjustments
On-press adjustments refers to using the press’s built-in features to maximize printability. Besides registration, key factors for on-press adjustments that affect a plastisol ink print include off-contact, flood speed, squeegee angle and speed and pressure, and squeegee selection, among numerous other adjustments.
The best screen printers use CTS devices for screen imaging with integrated exposure or use a CTS LED exposure unit along with automatic screen development (wash out). The ability to achieve consistent on-press registration is a skill that only comes with experience and technical understanding. The best screen printers take the time to verify and adjust their registration at every stage of the printing process, as attention to registration delivers professional-quality prints that retain crisp lines, clear edges, and accurate colors.
4. Meticulous Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is arguably one of the most important qualities that sets the best screen printers apart from the rest. Whether it’s ensuring proper screen tension, controlling ink characteristics , or verifying registration alignment, every aspect of screen printing requires careful oversight. The best screen printers are meticulous about each step in the process, understanding that even small details can have a significant impact on the final product.
Skilled screen printers know how to troubleshoot and prevent production issues by maintaining a clean workspace, ensuring screens are free from dust or residue, and regularly inspecting their equipment. They are also attentive to factors like ink, squeegee pressure, angle, and speed, which affect ink coverage and design clarity. By focusing on these details, they produce prints that not only look good but also have a professional finish.
The best screen printers are also known for their commitment to quality control. They inspect each print for defects, verifying that it meets the required standards before sending it to the client. This level of care reflects their dedication to producing high-quality work that stands the test of time, making them trusted partners in the industry.
5. Adaptability and Continuous Improvement
In addition to mastering the technical aspects of plastisol ink printing, the best screen printers are adaptable and committed to continuous improvement. The screen printing industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, techniques, and materials emerging regularly. The best printers stay up-to-date with industry trends, always experimenting with new ink, tools and methods to improve their work.
For example, some screen printers may incorporate ink additives or experiment with hybrid techniques, combining Plastisol with other types of ink for unique effects. Others invest in automated equipment or digital tools that allow for greater precision and efficiency. By staying open to new ideas, discussing new innovations with equipment manufactures (not paid social media influencers), these printers are able to maintain their competitive edge and continue producing top-quality prints.
Conclusion
The best screen printers are considered the best in the industry because they create great artwork, skillfully modify and prepare inks, achieve precise on-press registration, and pay close attention to every detail to ensure that their prints are visually stunning and long-lasting. Furthermore, their adaptability and willingness to embrace innovation demonstrate a forward-thinking approach that keeps them at the forefront of the industry.
