The Truth About Screen Printing: How to Spot the Good Stuff

What Makes High-Quality Screen Printing?

When it comes to custom apparel, screen printing is our go-to method for bold, long-lasting designs. But not all screen printing is created equal.

Whether you’re a business ordering branded tees, an organization spreading awareness, or the lucky one in charge of the family reunion shirts—knowing what makes a quality print can help you make better decisions (and avoid major letdowns).

Here’s what to look for:

1. Design clarity

This is the first thing people notice—and for good reason. Sharp lines and clear details are a must. Blurry edges or ink bleeding usually point to poorly made screens or mismatched mesh counts. Good print shops know how to pair the right screen with the right design so everything comes out looking sharp.

2. Ink application

Quality printing = smooth, even ink. No patchy spots, no faded edges. Ink that's too thick or too light usually comes down to poor technique, bad materials, or off-kilter squeegee pressure. Skilled printers know how to balance it all to get clean, consistent coverage every time.

3. Color alignment

Got a multi-color design? This one’s big. Each color layer needs to line up just right—otherwise, things start to look a little…off. A reliable shop uses precise equipment (and a trained eye) to make sure everything hits exactly where it should.

4. Durability

Your shirts should still look great after a bunch of washes—not just the day they arrive. That’s why curing matters. Prints that fade, crack, or peel weren’t cured at the right temperature (or used cheap ink). We use pro-level methods so your prints go the distance.

5. Fabric-specific technique

Cotton, polyester, tri-blends—each fabric plays differently with ink. Quality printing isn’t one-size-fits-all. A great shop knows how to tweak the process based on the material so your design always comes out looking its best.

6. Quality control

Are the prints centered? Is the placement consistent? Was each shirt checked before heading out the door? Small things make a big difference. Good print shops double-check their work so you’re not left with a batch of “oopsies.”

It’s All in the Process

Quality screen printing is part art, part science—and we take both seriously. It’s about using the right materials, tools, and techniques to get results you’ll be proud to wear.

Whether you're placing a bulk order for your brand or bringing your own design to life, we’ll walk you through it and make sure every detail is dialed in.

Want to see the difference?

Give us a call, swing by the shop, or hit us up online—we’d love to help you get started.

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