Best Fabric For Screen Printing (2024 Update)
If you're looking for quality screen printing, selecting the right fabric is a crucial deciding factor. While the design and production process is critical, choosing the best fabric for screen printing plays an equally crucial role in the overall quality of the final product. Therefore, consumers need to be aware of various fabric options before making a purchase decision.
When considering the best fabric for screen printing, factors to consider include the weight, texture, and weave of the fabric. It's essential to choose a fabric that can withstand the heat and pressure of screen printing without compromising on quality. Also, choose a fabric that will show vibrant hues and works well with your design and can last.
Are you looking for the best fabric for screen printing? Do you want to learn about the different fabrics that work best with screen printing? Are you interested in understanding which fabric will give you the most vibrant and long-lasting finishes for your designs? Look no further than our detailed guide on the best fabrics for screen printing. Discover the perfect fabric for you, based on your needs and requirements, and elevate your screen printing business today.
10 Best Fabric For Screen Printing
| # | Product Image | Product Name | Product Notes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing on fabrics, using both plastisol ink and water-based ink with diazo required photo emulsion.
|
|
|
|
2
|
 |
This product is ideal for screen printing on silk screens and fabric using both plastisol and water based ink.
|
|
|
|
3
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing on textiles, fabric and silk screens using plastisol ink.
|
|
|
|
4
|
 |
It is ideal for screen printing on silk screens, textiles, and fabrics using plastisol ink.
|
|
|
|
5
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing and includes all necessary materials such as a screen, squeegee, ink, diazo photo emulsion, and sensitizer.
|
|
|
|
6
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing plastisol inks onto fabric with pre-sensitized photo emulsion.
|
|
|
|
7
|
 |
It is ideal for silk screen printing projects that require a mesh count of 100.
|
|
|
|
8
|
 |
The product is ideal for screen printing on textiles, fabrics, and other materials using plastisol and UV inks.
|
|
|
|
9
|
 |
The product is ideal for silk screen printing with a mesh count of 300 and made of polyester material in yellow color.
|
|
|
|
10
|
 |
Printing high-quality designs on cloth or fabric material with a silk-screening method.
|
|
1. Silk Screen Printing Essentials With Ecotex® Dc
Introducing the Ecotex DC Pink Textile Emulsion – a versatile and durable photopolymer emulsion that works exceptionally well with both plastisol and water-based inks. This premium quality emulsion is the perfect solution for screen printers who are seeking a high-quality product that is easy to use.
Crafted with quality and longevity in mind, this emulsion boasts a 12+ month shelf life when stored and used correctly. It is important to keep the emulsion in a cool area, as heat can cause it to break down faster. To extend its shelf life, consider storing it in a fridge with the lid tightly sealed to prevent air and light leaks. Before each use, gently mix the emulsion to ensure the best results.
For optimal results, it is recommended to use this emulsion with a strong emulsion exposure unit rather than a DIY light source. For a clean and even application, consider using the Ecotex Emulsion Scoop Coater.
All of our long-lasting emulsions are made right here in the USA and hand-poured by SPD's finest. Build your screen printing brand with confidence by using our top-of-the-line screen printing tools.
We stand behind the quality of our products, which is why we offer a risk-free guarantee. If you aren't completely satisfied with your aluminum screen printing emulsion scoop coater, simply take advantage of our full 30-day money-back guarantee.
Whether you're an experienced screen printer or just getting started, the Ecotex DC Pink Textile Emulsion is a reliable and versatile solution that is sure to exceed your expectations. Add it to your cart today and take the first step towards achieving exceptional screen printing results.
2. Eco-Blue Screen Emulsion For Perfect Prints.
For screen printing enthusiasts looking for a versatile and durable photopolymer emulsion, Ecotex's Dual-Cure Textile Emulsion is the perfect solution. This emulsion is specially crafted to work with both plastisol and water-based inks, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to expand their printing capabilities.
Made with pure photopolymer, this emulsion is incredibly easy to use, and comes with Diazo included. With proper use and storage, it can last for over 12 months, making it a long-lasting solution for anyone looking to build their screen printing brand.
To ensure the longest possible shelf life, it's important to keep the emulsion in a cool area. Heat can cause it to break down much faster, and keeping it in a fridge can help to extend its shelf life slightly. It's also important to keep the emulsion lid on tight to prevent air and light leaks, and to gently mix the emulsion each time before use to help extend its life.
For the best results, Ecotex's Emulsion Scoop Coater is recommended for clean, even coverage. When using this emulsion with a silk screen printing kit, it's important to note that it is ultra-durable and must be cured with a strong emulsion exposure unit. DIY light is not recommended.
All of Ecotex's long-lasting emulsion is made in the USA and hand-poured by SPD's finest. By using these high-quality screen printing tools, users can build their brand with confidence and create quality results that will last.
Ecotex also offers a risk-free guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction. If for any reason the aluminum screen printing emulsion scoop coater doesn't meet expectations, customers can take advantage of the full, 30-day money-back guarantee.
3. Ecoscreen: Silk Screen Emulsion For Green Printing
Looking for an easy-to-use screen printing supply that is perfect for all skill levels? Look no further than the AP Blue Emulsion by Ecotex. This premixed and pre-sensitized emulsion is ready to be applied to your screen printing screens right out of the canister, making it one of the best options on the market.
Compatible with all plastisol ink screen printing techniques as well as UV ink, the AP Blue Emulsion is designed to be used with your favorite products. When used with your preferred silk screen printing kit, this emulsion is ultra-durable and can withstand even the most demanding printing jobs. However, it should be noted that the emulsion must be cured with a strong emulsion exposure unit, as DIY light is not recommended. For best results, use an emulsion scoop coater for clean, even coverage.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced printer, Ecotex has you covered. This emulsion is perfect for all skill levels and has a 12-month shelf life, giving you plenty of time to use it before it expires. Plus, it's proudly made in the USA.
One of the standout features of the AP Blue Emulsion is its extended shelf life. Unlike other emulsions that require the addition of diazo and therefore have a short shelf life, this pre-sensitized photo emulsion does not require any additional ingredients and can be stored for over a year. This makes it a perfect and economical option for print shops of all sizes.
4. Eco-Screen: Green Silk Screen Emulsion (32 Oz.)
Looking for a reliable and easy-to-use emulsion for your screen printing needs? Look no further than Ecotex LED Emulsion. This premixed and pre-sensitized emulsion is designed to be one of the best screen printing supplies on the market, offering a hassle-free way to create high-quality prints.
One of the standout features of this emulsion is its compatibility with a wide range of products. Whether you prefer to work with plastisol or UV ink, this emulsion is fully compatible. And when you're finished printing, it's easy to clean up with emulsion remover.
But what really sets Ecotex LED Emulsion apart is its durability. When used with a silk screen printing kit, this emulsion can withstand exposure to both emulsion exposure units and high-quality UV lights. And thanks to its long shelf life of over a year, you can rest assured that this emulsion will be ready to use whenever you need it.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced screen printer, Ecotex LED Emulsion is the perfect choice. And with a 12-month shelf life and proud Made in the USA label, you can trust that you're getting a quality product that will stand the test of time. So why wait? Try Ecotex LED Emulsion for your next screen printing project and see the difference for yourself.
5. Speedball Screen Printing Essentials Kit
The Speedball Advanced All-In-One Screen Printing Kit is a comprehensive set that equips artists with the tools they need to create custom screen-printed projects. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced screen printer, this kit takes you to the next level of screen printing.
The kit includes a 10”x14” Speedball Wooden Screen Frame, a Red Baron Squeegee, and two 4oz. jars of Speedball Fabric Screen Printing Ink in Black and Red. Artists can use the Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler method to bring their hand-drawn or painterly imagery to life, without the need for exposure. The Drawing Fluid offers great detail, making it ideal for intricate designs. The kit also includes a 4oz. bottle of Screen Filler, which blocks the screen in areas you don't want ink to pass through.
The Photo Emulsion technique is ideal for transforming any black and white design into a custom screen-printed project. The kit comes with a 3.3oz. bottle of Speedball Diazo Photo Emulsion, a bottle of Speedball Sensitizer, and a 4oz. bottle of Speedball Photo Emulsion Remover. The Sensitizer bottle may appear empty, but it contains a very small amount of sensitizer that can appear like thick oil or paste.
In addition to the essential materials, the kit also includes a Round Brush, two Craft Sticks, and a 4oz. bottle of Speedball Speed Clean. The Speedball Screen Printing Instruction Guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to use the kit.
6. Eco-Screen: Silk Screen Emulsion For Plastisol Inks
Introducing the Tex Emulsion from Ecotex – a top-of-the-line screen printing supply that promises a simple and hassle-free printing experience. This pre-mixed and pre-sensitized emulsion is ready to use straight out of the canister, making it one of the best options for screen printing enthusiasts.
Versatility is key when it comes to screen printing, and the Tex Emulsion is fully compatible with all plastisol ink screen printing techniques and UV ink. This allows you to use your favorite products without worrying about any compatibility issues. When you are done, simply use an emulsion remover to reclaim your screens.
One of the standout features of this emulsion is its durability. When used with your preferred silk screen printing kit, the Tex Emulsion is ultra-durable and can be cured with an emulsion exposure unit or DIY light. Whichever method you use, this emulsion can withstand the process without any issues. You can also use an emulsion scoop coater for clean and even coverage.
Regardless of your experience level, the Tex Emulsion is perfect for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced printer, this emulsion has got your back. It boasts a 12-month shelf life, and it is proudly made in the USA, so you can be assured of its quality.
One of the most significant benefits of using pre-sensitized photo emulsion is that it does not require the addition of diazo, which gives it a long shelf life of over a year. This makes it an economical option for your print shop, as you won't have to worry about the emulsion going bad quickly.
7. 3 Yards Silk Screen Printing Fabric Mesh 100 Mesh Count(40t)
The 100Mesh(40T) White Mesh is a versatile and durable product that is perfect for a wide range of applications. Measuring 50 inches (1.27m) in width and 3 yards (2.7m/8.8ft) in length, this mesh is designed to provide ample coverage for all your needs.
Crafted from high-quality monofilament polyester, this mesh is guaranteed to withstand wear and tear over time, making it an excellent investment for any project. The plain weave 1:1 design ensures maximum strength and stability, while the white color complements any décor or color scheme.
Each mesh is conveniently folded and packaged in an envelope, making it easy to stretch and use right out of the box. Whether you're an experienced crafter, artist, or DIY enthusiast, this mesh is sure to impress with its superior quality and performance.
8. High Viscosity Screen Printing Emulsion – Ecotex® Tex Blue
Looking for an easy-to-use, reliable, and durable emulsion for your screen printing projects? Look no further than Ecotex Tex Emulsion, one of the best screen printing supplies available on the market today.
This premixed and pre-sensitized emulsion is designed to be used straight out of the canister, making it a hassle-free and convenient choice for both beginners and experienced screen printers alike. It's also fully compatible with all plastisol ink screen printing techniques as well as UV ink, giving you the flexibility to use it with your favorite products.
When used with your preferred silk screen printing kit, this emulsion is ultra-durable and can be cured with an emulsion exposure unit or DIY light. To ensure clean, even coverage, Ecotex recommends using an Emulsion Scoop Coater.
With a 12-month shelf life and made in the USA, Ecotex Tex Emulsion is the perfect choice for all skill levels. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience under your belt, this emulsion is a reliable and economical option that you can count on.
One of the standout features of Ecotex Tex Emulsion is its extended shelf life. Unlike some other photo emulsions that require the addition of diazo, this pre-sensitized emulsion can last for over a year without any additional additives. And with its high viscosity, this emulsion is perfect for achieving a puff effect.
To make cleanup a breeze, be sure to pick up some emulsion remover to reclaim your screens once you're finished with your printing projects.
9. Intbuying 1 Yard 300 Mesh Count Silk Screen Printing Mesh Fabric Polyester Yellow Material
This yellow mesh is perfect for silk screen printing projects that require stable fabric tension and improved registration. It is made of monofilament polyester, which has a high tension threshold and breaking point. The material is non-toxic, odorless, and has excellent wrinkle resistance and elasticity. It also has good dimensional stability under tension, making it resistant to deformation.
The mesh contains high strength and low elongation, ensuring good tension stability. It is available in a range of mesh sizes, from 40 to 300, making it suitable for a variety of printing applications. This mesh is also resistant to sunlight, abrasion, and has good electrical insulation and chemical resistance.
This professional-quality mesh is affordable and available for direct factory sales. It is designed to be stored without mildewing and is resistant to both acid and alkali. It can even withstand dilute acid at room temperature.
The mesh's dimensions are 1 yard in length and 1.39 yards (1.27m) in width, with a mesh count of 300 (120T). The stable fabric tension of this yellow mesh ensures improved registration and less tension loss during the stretching process.
10. 3 Yards Silk Screen Printing Mesh Fabric 110 43t / 110-108" L
This screen printing mesh is made of 100% Monofilament Polyester and features a Plain Weave 1:1. It comes in a standard size of 50 inches in width and 108 inches in length, with a classic white color.
The 110 mesh is the most commonly used type of white mesh among screen printers, making it a popular and standardized choice. This product is perfect for those looking to create high-quality screen prints with fine detail and excellent resolution.
Please note that the paper core is not included with this product, but it can be added for an additional fee. When the mesh arrives, it will be folded and may have creases. However, these creases will disappear once the fabric is stretched using a stretching machine.
Best Fabric For Screen Printing FAQs
Are there any specific fabrics to avoid when screen printing?
Yes, there are some fabrics that should be avoided when screen printing. The most important factor to consider when choosing a fabric for screen printing is its ability to hold the ink. Some fabrics, such as silk and polyester, tend to repel ink and can result in poor quality prints. On the other hand, fabrics such as cotton, linen, and rayon are great for screen printing because they absorb ink well and produce high-quality prints.
Another factor to consider is the stretchiness of the fabric. Stretchy fabrics such as spandex and nylon can be difficult to print on and may result in distorted images. It is also important to avoid fabrics with a high level of texture or uneven surface, as this can make it difficult for the ink to adhere properly to the fabric.
In summary, it is best to use fabrics that are absorbent and have a smooth, even surface for screen printing. Cotton, linen, and rayon are great choices, while fabrics such as silk, polyester, spandex, and nylon should be avoided if possible.
Can you screen print on any type of fabric?
Screen printing is a popular printing method that can be used on a wide variety of fabrics. However, it is important to note that the success of screen printing on a particular fabric depends on a few factors such as the type of ink used, the weave and texture of the fabric, and the size and complexity of the design.
In general, natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk are easier to screen print on than synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon. This is because natural fabrics are more absorbent and have a more porous surface, allowing the ink to adhere better. However, with advances in ink technology, it is now possible to screen print on almost any type of fabric, including synthetic blends.
It's always best to test the fabric and ink combination before beginning a large production run to ensure that the final result meets your expectations. A professional screen printer can also advise you on the best printing method for your specific fabric and design.
How do you choose the right fabric for screen printing?
Choosing the right fabric for screen printing is crucial to achieve the desired design and quality of the prints. The first thing to consider is the type of design and ink you will be using for printing. Different fabrics have different textures and absorbency, which can affect the quality of the print. For example, a fine mesh fabric like silk can produce more detailed prints, while a coarser fabric like cotton can produce a more textured look.
Another important factor to consider is the color and weight of the fabric. Light-colored fabrics tend to work better with darker inks, while dark-colored fabrics work better with lighter inks. Additionally, the weight of the fabric will determine how well it holds up during the printing process. Heavier fabrics tend to be more durable and hold up better under the pressure of the printing press.
Ultimately, it is important to test different fabrics and inks to determine the best combination for your particular printing needs. This may involve experimenting with different fabrics and inks to find the right balance between quality, durability, and cost. By taking the time to choose the right fabric for your screen printing needs, you can ensure that your designs look great and last for a long time.
How does the color of the fabric impact screen printing?
The color of the fabric plays a significant role in screen printing. Darker fabrics require a different approach compared to lighter fabrics. Lighter colored fabrics tend to work better with darker ink, while darker fabrics require lighter ink. This is because the ink used in screen printing is not opaque, and the color of the fabric can show through the ink, affecting the final color of the print.
When printing on darker fabrics, a base layer of white ink is often added to create a barrier between the fabric color and the ink color. This ensures that the final print color is not affected by the fabric color. However, this extra step can increase the production time and cost of the job.
Additionally, some colors may not show up as vibrantly on certain fabric colors. For example, a light yellow ink may appear very faint on a light blue fabric, but may be more visible on a white fabric.
Overall, the color of the fabric should be considered when choosing ink colors and determining the printing process for optimal results.
How does the weight of the fabric affect screen printing?
The weight of the fabric plays a crucial role in screen printing. It affects the amount of ink that can be deposited on the fabric and the overall print quality. Generally, lighter weight fabrics such as cotton jersey or rayon have a smoother surface which makes it easier for the ink to adhere to the fabric. This results in a sharper and more defined print. On the other hand, heavier fabrics like denim or canvas have a rougher surface that can make it difficult for the ink to penetrate the fabric. This can result in a more faded or distressed print.
Moreover, the weight of the fabric also affects the printing process. Heavier fabrics require more pressure to pull the ink through the screen, and this can be challenging for screen printers. Additionally, heavier fabrics will absorb more ink than lighter fabrics, which can lead to longer drying times and potential issues with bleeding.
In conclusion, it is essential to consider the weight of the fabric when choosing a printing method and the appropriate ink to use. Understanding how the weight of the fabric affects the printing process will help you achieve the desired results.
Is polyester fabric suitable for screen printing?
Yes, polyester fabric is suitable for screen printing. In fact, it is one of the most commonly used fabrics for this purpose. Polyester is a popular choice because it is durable, lightweight, and has excellent color retention. Additionally, polyester fabric is easy to work with and can be printed using a variety of different screen printing techniques, including direct screen printing, sublimation printing, and heat transfer printing.
When it comes to screen printing on polyester fabric, it is important to choose the right ink for the job. Water-based inks are a popular choice because they are environmentally friendly and produce vibrant, long-lasting prints. However, some printers prefer to use plastisol inks, which are more opaque and have a thicker consistency.
In summary, polyester fabric is a great choice for screen printing, and with the right ink and printing techniques, you can achieve high-quality results that will stand up to wear and tear.
What are the advantages of using a blend of cotton and polyester for screen printing?
Using a blend of cotton and polyester for screen printing has several advantages. Firstly, the combination of these two materials creates a fabric that is more durable and resistant to shrinkage compared to 100% cotton. This means that the printed design will last longer and maintain its shape after multiple washes.
Secondly, the polyester component of the blend helps to prevent fading of the printed design over time, as it is less prone to color loss than cotton. This is especially important for screen printing, as it often involves using vibrant colors that need to maintain their intensity over time.
Another advantage of using a cotton-polyester blend for screen printing is that it allows for a wider range of fabric options. While 100% cotton is a popular choice for screen printing, it may not always be suitable for all types of clothing or products. By using a blend, screen printers can offer their clients more options for different types of garments and products, while still maintaining the quality and durability of the printed design.
Overall, using a blend of cotton and polyester for screen printing offers a number of advantages, including increased durability, color retention, and versatility.
What are the benefits of using cotton fabric for screen printing?
Cotton fabric is a popular choice for screen printing because of its numerous benefits. Firstly, cotton is a natural and breathable fabric that is comfortable to wear, making it an ideal choice for screen printing on clothing. Secondly, cotton is highly absorbent, which means that it can hold a lot of ink, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting prints.
Another benefit of cotton fabric for screen printing is its durability. Cotton fibers are strong and resistant to tearing, making the fabric less likely to develop holes or damage during the printing process or after multiple washes. Additionally, cotton fabric is relatively easy to work with and can be stretched without losing its shape, which allows for more precise printing.
Finally, cotton is a sustainable and eco-friendly option for screen printing. It is a renewable resource that is biodegradable, making it a better choice for the environment than synthetic fabrics. Overall, cotton fabric offers a range of benefits for screen printing, making it a popular choice for both beginners and professionals.
What is the best type of fabric for screen printing?
When it comes to screen printing, the type of fabric you choose can have a big impact on the final outcome of your project. The best type of fabric for screen printing is one that is smooth and has a tight weave, such as cotton or polyester. These fabrics provide a consistent surface for the ink to adhere to and produce a sharp, vibrant print.
Cotton is the most popular fabric for screen printing because it is soft, breathable, and absorbs ink well. It is also relatively inexpensive and widely available. Polyester, on the other hand, is more durable and resistant to shrinking and wrinkling. It is a good choice for athletic wear and other items that will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear.
Ultimately, the best type of fabric for screen printing will depend on your specific project and needs. It is important to choose a fabric that is compatible with the type of ink you will be using and to test your design on a small swatch before printing on a larger scale.
What is the recommended thread count for screen printing on fabric?
When it comes to screen printing on fabric, the recommended thread count depends on several factors, including the type of fabric, the design, and the ink being used. However, as a general rule, a thread count of at least 160 is recommended for most fabric types. This will ensure that the ink is able to pass through the screen and onto the fabric evenly, without bleeding or smudging.
For more intricate designs or finer details, a higher thread count may be necessary to ensure that the design is properly transferred to the fabric. In these cases, a thread count of 200 or higher may be recommended.
It's important to note that while a higher thread count may result in a more detailed print, it can also make the screen more fragile and prone to damage. Therefore, it's important to choose a thread count that balances detail with durability, based on the specific needs of your project.
