Manufacturer · Fashion Accessories
Screen printing labels is a method in which ink is pressed through a fine mesh (screen) with a stencil directly onto the textile tape. The result is a dense, rich layer that covers well even on dark bases. That is why screen printing is preferred for brand labels with a bold logo, for light print on black or navy tape and for cotton tapes with a coarser structure.
How screen printed labels are made
A screen is a frame with a stretched synthetic mesh. A photosensitive emulsion is applied to it and then exposed through a film with the design. Where there is an image, the emulsion stays open and lets ink through; the rest of the mesh is blocked. During printing the tape is placed under the screen, and the ink is spread with a squeegee and passes through the open areas.
A separate screen is made for each colour. With a multicolour design the tape passes through several stations, and the colours must register exactly with each other. After printing the ink is dried or heat-cured to make it wash-resistant.
What makes screen printing different
- Layer thickness. The ink is denser than with thermal transfer or flexographic printing. The colour is rich and opaque.
- Coverage. Light colours print on a dark base without fading.
- Tactile effect. With a thicker layer the print feels slightly raised, which some brands use as a design element.
- Works on different surfaces. Screen printing also copes well with cotton and rougher tapes.
Screen printed labels – which labels it suits
The method is strongest where the label is visible and must look good, and the design does not change often.
- Brand labels on satin tape in the brand colour – for example gold on black or white on burgundy.
- External labels sewn on the pocket, side seam or hem, where they are visible.
- Labels on cotton tape for collections in a natural, matte style.
- Labels for accessories – bags, scarves, hats, where the tape is wider and the logo larger.
If you are looking for a base with a beautiful sheen, also see our satin ribbons, which are used both for labels and for decorating products.
Limitations to keep in mind
| Limitation | What it means in practice |
|---|---|
| Very small text | Thin lines and letters below a certain size may merge; the screen has a detail limit. |
| Variable data | Each different text requires a new screen – inconvenient for many sizes and numbers. |
| Preparation | Making screens and setting up colours takes time, which pays off in larger runs. |
| Softness | The dense layer is less flexible; for labels against the skin this must be tested. |
Screen printing, thermal transfer or a woven label
The choice depends on what the label must achieve. Screen printing sits between the other two options. Compared with thermal transfer it wins on colour saturation and the ability to print light colours on dark tape. It loses on flexibility when there are many variants and small text. Compared with woven labels it wins with a smoother surface, finer transitions and the softer look of satin, but a woven label is more durable because there is no ink layer that can wear.
A practical combination that many brands use is the logo on satin, screen printed, or a woven label, with the size and composition on a separate thermal transfer label.
How to prepare the design for screen printing
- Vector file. Send the logo in AI, EPS, PDF or SVG, with text converted to outlines.
- Solid colours. Avoid gradients and shadows – screen printing works with solid, separate colours. Halftones are possible but lose detail on textile.
- Pantone references. State the exact print colour and tape colour. Ink looks different on dark and light bases, so the sample is decisive.
- Minimum thicknesses. Lines and thin elements of the font must be thick enough not to clog the screen.
- Margin around the design. Leave space from the edge of the tape, especially if the label will be folded or sewn along the edges.
Care and durability
Well-cured screen printing withstands regular home washing. To keep the label looking good, recommend in the care instructions that customers wash the garment inside out and do not iron directly over the print. If the product will be washed at a high temperature or dry cleaned, state this in your inquiry – there are inks with different resistance levels, and the choice depends on the actual conditions.
What the price depends on
With screen printing, much of the cost lies in the preparation rather than the printing itself. That is why the unit price changes significantly with quantity. The main factors are:
- Number of colours – each colour means a new screen, a separate set-up and a separate pass.
- Tape type and width – satin, cotton and polyester differ in price, and a wider tape uses more material.
- Print area size – a larger logo needs more ink and a larger screen.
- Number of designs – several different labels in one order mean several sets of screens.
- Finishing – cutting, folding, delivery on a roll.
An exact price can be given after a request for a quote with the design and quantities. If the budget is limited, reducing the number of colours is usually the most effective step without sacrificing brand recognition.
Screen printed labels from Polkom
Polkom is a Sofia-based manufacturer and wholesaler of clothing accessories with over 30 years of experience. We make printed labels using screen printing, thermal transfer and flexographic printing on satin, polyester, taffeta and cotton. We make fast samples and deliver across the EU. Minimum quantities depend on the article. Send your logo and desired colours via our contact page to request a quote.
