Custom Screen Printing: Planning a Business Order
In this guide
Custom screen printing can be a useful way to reproduce the same design across an apparel order. Whether it suits a business project depends on the artwork, quantity, blank, deadline, and setup costs. Compare the complete job rather than only a quoted price per shirt.
Define the order before requesting a quote
List the garment style, color, size quantities, print locations, artwork dimensions, and delivery date. Include any individual names or changes between garments, since those may require a different process or additional work.
Understand the main cost variables
- The number of artwork colors and print locations can affect setup.
- Dark fabrics may require an underbase or additional preparation.
- Specialty inks and fabric compatibility can change the process.
- Small reorders may not have the same unit cost as the original run.
Ask what the quote includes: artwork preparation, samples, screens, packaging, delivery, and any expected overruns or replacements.
Approve artwork and a physical sample
Provide authorized artwork in the decorator's requested format. Check spelling, contrast, dimensions, and placement on a proof. Then evaluate a sample using the selected blank and ink system. Inspect the print's feel and wash performance, not just its appearance immediately after production.
Make repeat orders reproducible
Keep the approved file, garment identifier, color, size breakdown, ink specification, and placement measurements together. Record compatible care instructions and any sample observations. Confirm availability before promising a repeat delivery date. A well-documented order can make future production easier, but no printing method guarantees lower costs or better marketing results for every business.
