What Should You Know About Screen Printing from a Local Expert Like Blazon Apparel + Print?

Quick Summary:
Blazon Apparel + Print is a custom screen printing and apparel company based in Gaston, South Carolina, serving businesses, schools, teams, and organizations throughout the Midlands and across South Carolina. We specialize in high-quality screen printing using professional presses, CTS technology, plastisol inks, and precise color matching to deliver durable, vibrant custom apparel.

Why Is Screen Printing Still One of the Best Methods for Custom T-Shirts?

Screen printing remains one of the most trusted and widely used methods for custom apparel because it produces bold, long-lasting prints that hold up through repeated wear and washing.

For businesses and organizations searching for screen printing near me, this method is ideal when:

• Designs require vibrant, opaque colors
• Orders involve medium to large quantities
• Durability and consistency matter

At Blazon Apparel + Print in Gaston, SC, we use screen printing for projects where quality, efficiency, and longevity are critical.

---

What Is the Screen Printing Process Step by Step?

Screen printing is a precise, multi-step process that requires skill, experience, and specialized equipment.

How Is Each Screen Created?

Every color in a design requires its own screen. Blazon uses CTS (computer-to-screen) technology, which improves accuracy and consistency while reducing setup errors compared to manual exposure methods.

---

Why Is Proper Screen Setup So Important?

Screens must be carefully aligned on the printing press, especially for multi-color designs. Even minor misalignment can affect print quality, making experience and attention to detail essential.

Why Does Blazon Use Plastisol Ink?

Blazon Apparel + Print exclusively uses plastisol inks because they offer unmatched durability and color performance.

Plastisol ink advantages include:

• Excellent wash durability
• Bright, opaque colors on light and dark garments
• Consistent results across large orders
• Compatibility with many fabric types

We also offer PMS (Pantone Matching System) color matching to meet strict brand standards.

---

How Does the Printing Stage Work?

Depending on order size and design complexity, Blazon uses both manual and automatic presses.

The garment is placed on a platen, the screen is lowered, and ink is pushed through the mesh using a squeegee. Each color is applied separately, allowing controlled drying between layers to ensure clean results.

---

Why Is Proper Curing Critical?

After printing, garments must be cured at precise temperatures to permanently bond the ink to the fabric. Improper curing leads to cracking, fading, or peeling—issues we actively prevent through controlled curing processes.

---

What Makes Screen Printing More Challenging Than It Looks?

Screen printing requires more than just equipment—it demands experience.

Challenge	Why It Matters
Color alignment	Multi-color designs require exact registration
Ink consistency	Variations affect appearance and durability
Fine detail	Small text and thin lines need planning
Fabric variation	Different materials react differently to ink

This is why choosing a professional local shop matters.

Why Do More Colors Increase the Cost of Screen Printing?

The number of colors in a design directly impacts production time, labor, and materials.

How Do Colors Affect Screen Printing Costs?

Factor	Impact
Additional screens	Each color requires its own screen
Setup time	More alignment and testing
Ink usage	More ink and color mixing
Error risk	Higher chance of misregistration

Why Are Fewer Colors More Cost-Effective?

Designs with fewer colors require:

• Fewer screens
• Faster setup
• Quicker production
• Lower ink usage

This makes one- and two-color designs ideal for budget-conscious projects.

---

Why Do Small Orders Cost More Per Shirt?

Screen printing involves fixed setup costs regardless of order size.

How Does Order Quantity Affect Pricing?

Order Size	Cost Per Shirt	Reason
Small runs	Higher	Setup costs spread over fewer units
Large runs	Lower	Economies of scale

What Happens When Screen Printing Quality Is Compromised?

Cutting corners on screen printing often leads to long-term issues.

What Are the Risks of Low-Quality Screen Printing?

• Fading or cracking prints
• Inconsistent colors
• Shorter garment lifespan
• Negative brand perception

Investing in quality protects your brand and your budget over time.

What Technical Details Influence Screen Printing Quality?

For customers interested in the technical side, several factors affect final results:

• Mesh count: Determines ink thickness and detail
• Emulsion type: Chosen based on ink and fabric
• Ink formulation: Plastisol provides consistency and durability

Blazon combines these technical elements with experience to deliver dependable results.

Does Blazon Use Eco-Friendly Screen Printing Practices?

Yes. When possible, Blazon incorporates environmentally responsible practices, including:

• Water-based inks for applicable projects
• Responsible waste handling
• Efficient production workflows

What Are the Most Common Screen Printing Questions?

What is the minimum order for screen printing?
Our minimum order is 24 pieces, which allows us to maintain quality and cost efficiency. Smaller runs may be better suited for DTG or DTF printing.

How long does screen printing take?
Typical turnaround is about two weeks after artwork approval. Rush options are available.

Can I run multiple designs in one order?
Yes, but each design requires separate setup and screens, which affects pricing.

Why Choose a Local Screen Printing Shop Like Blazon Apparel + Print?

Businesses across Gaston, Lexington, Columbia, and the Midlands choose Blazon for screen printing because we combine professional equipment with local service and accountability.

Customers searching for screen printing near me trust Blazon for:

• Consistent quality
• Accurate color matching
• Durable prints
• Clear communication

How Can You Get Started with Screen Printing Near You?

If you’re looking for custom screen printing near Gaston, SC, Blazon Apparel + Print is ready to help.

Contact us today to discuss your design, explore printing options, and receive a quote from a trusted local screen printing partner.