Most startup screen printers begin with a manual screen printing press, while some beginner printers opt for automation from the outset. Every screen printer should understand the benefits of automatic screen printing and evaluate their options. In this article, we explore key considerations for determining whether an automatic screen printing press is the right choice for your shop.
Automatic vs. Manual Screen Printing Machines
Automatic screen printing presses feature automated carousels that move t-shirt platens from one station to the next, with an automatic squeegee that applies ink through the mesh onto the shirt. Operators only need to load and unload shirts, making the process significantly easier. The machine handles the labor-intensive task of “pulling” the squeegee.
In contrast, manual machines require printers to load t-shirts and manually pull the squeegee for each color, on every shirt, demanding more time and physical effort.
Reasons to Get an Automatic Screen Printing Machine
- Speed: Automatic screen printing presses are designed for high-speed production. According to industry data, automatic presses can produce up to 1,000 shirts per hour compared to 100–200 shirts per hour for manual machines, a 5–10x increase in output. This allows you to scale your business, fulfill larger orders, and pass cost savings to customers.
- Reduced Labor Needs: Automatic presses require significantly less labor. A single operator can manage an automatic press, whereas manual printing often needs multiple workers for high-volume jobs. Studies suggest automation can cut labor costs by up to 50%, freeing up time to focus on business growth and customer acquisition while maintaining excellent service.
- Protect Your Health: Manual printing takes a physical toll, with repetitive strain injuries affecting 60% of manual screen printers after years of work, according to ergonomic studies. Automatic machines eliminate repetitive motions, reducing strain on shoulders, elbows, and hands, allowing printers to work comfortably for longer.
- Consistency: Automated presses ensure consistent prints by maintaining precise squeegee pressure and alignment. Human error in manual printing can lead to a 10–15% defect rate, while automatic presses reduce this to under 2%, ensuring uniform colors and placements even during long print runs.
- Flexibility: Automatic presses support complex, high-color designs and large orders with ease, enabling you to offer diverse products and attract a broader client base.
- Long-Term Investment: While automatic presses have a higher upfront cost, they offer a strong return on investment. Industry reports indicate that businesses adopting automatic presses can recoup costs within 1–2 years through increased productivity and reduced labor expenses. For long-term operations, this makes them a cost-effective choice.
Lawson Makes It Simple to Go Automatic
Lawson Screen & Digital Products offers a variety of automatic presses tailored to every size of screen printing business, with custom design and configuration options. With our financing you can get the equipment you need with quick approval and a simple payment plan.
Consider your shop’s size when choosing a machine. Lawson provides compact automatic presses that fit in small spaces like basements or garages, ideal for startups with space constraints.
Ensure your shop has adequate power and infrastructure before purchasing. Automatic machines typically require electricity and compressed air. Lawson offers models like those needing only standard 120-volt power and 8 CFM of compressed air, while advanced presses like the Express-EX require 220 volts.
Lawson offers screen printing automation for every budget. For businesses space limitations, a semi-automatic press is a great option. Lawson’s lineup includes both fully automatic and semi-automatic presses to suit your needs.