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The Apparel Lab
Service · Screen Printing

Custom Screen Printing

The most cost-effective method for large orders. Screen printing delivers bold, vibrant colors that hold up wash after wash. Ideal for uniforms, events, team gear, and bulk merch runs.

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+ Best For

Where this method shines

  • Bulk orders (24+ pieces)
  • Designs with 1–6 spot colors
  • T-shirts, hoodies, and sweatshirts
  • Uniforms and workwear programs
  • Event and trade show apparel
  • Maximum durability and wash fastness
— Not Ideal For

When to consider another method

  • Full-color photographic images (consider DTF)
  • Very small runs under 12 pieces (setup costs spread thin)
  • Polyester performance wear (consider DTF)
  • Designs requiring many colors (8+) where cost per color adds up
/ Sec.02Pricing Drivers

What affects your price.

We quote every project individually. These are the variables that move the number.

  • 01Number of ink colors (each color requires a separate screen)
  • 02Order quantity (per-unit cost drops significantly at higher volumes)
  • 03Number of print locations (front, back, sleeves each priced separately)
  • 04Garment selection (blank garment cost varies by brand and style)
  • 05Ink type (specialty inks like metallic, glow, and puff cost more than standard)
  • 06Print size (oversized prints require larger screens and more ink)
/ Sec.03Process

Quote to delivery.

  1. 01Step

    Submit Your Artwork

    Send over your logo or design files (AI, EPS, PDF, PNG, or PSD). Not print-ready? Art cleanup and vectorization are included.

  2. 02Step

    Review Your Proof

    We send a digital mockup for approval. Adjust placement, sizing, or colors; revisions are included until you're happy with the proof.

  3. 03Step

    Production

    Your approved design moves into production. Every piece is printed, cured, and quality-checked before it ships.

  4. 04Step

    Shipping & Delivery

    Your order is packed and shipped to your location with tracking. Rush shipping available.

/ Sec.04Lead Times

Turnaround.

After proof approval. Rush always subject to capacity.

TierStandard
7–10 business days after proof approval
TierRush
3–5 business days (subject to availability)
TierEmergency
Contact us, case by case
/ Sec.05File Specs

Artwork & files.

  • Vector files preferred (AI, EPS, PDF) for cleanest results
  • Minimum 300 DPI for raster artwork (PNG, PSD, TIFF)
  • Each ink color should be separated or easily separable
  • Provide PMS/Pantone color references when possible
  • Not sure if your file is ready? Send it over and we'll review it free of charge
/ Sec.06Catalog

Popular products for this method.

  • / 01

    T-Shirts

    The workhorse of screen printing. Cotton and blends in every weight and fit.

  • / 02

    Hoodies & Sweatshirts

    Fleece and French terry blanks. Front, back, and sleeve printing.

  • / 03

    Tank Tops

    Events, fitness, summer promos. Lightweight and breathable.

  • / 04

    Long Sleeves

    Sleeve prints, back prints, layering pieces for cooler weather.

  • / 05

    Tote Bags

    Canvas and cotton totes, great for events and giveaways.

  • / 06

    Workwear

    Hi-vis, safety tees, and durable work shirts.

/ Sec.07FAQ

Common questions.

What is the minimum order for screen printing?

The standard minimum is 24 pieces per design. Screen setup is a fixed cost, so a 24-piece minimum keeps per-unit pricing reasonable.

How much does screen printing cost?

Pricing depends on the number of ink colors, print locations, quantity, and garment choice. A single-color print on 72+ tees is the most cost-effective configuration. Contact us for a quote specific to your project.

Can you print on dark-colored shirts?

Yes. An underbase (white ink layer) is added beneath your design colors to ensure vibrancy on dark garments. This counts as an additional color in pricing.

What file format do you need?

Vector files (AI, EPS, PDF) produce the best results. High-resolution PNG and PSD files (300+ DPI) also work. If your file needs adjustments, we'll let you know.

Can you match my brand colors exactly?

Yes. Custom Pantone (PMS) ink colors can be mixed to match your brand guidelines. Provide your PMS codes for the most accurate match.

How long does screen printing take?

Standard turnaround is 7–10 business days after proof approval. Rush options (3–5 days) are available depending on capacity.

Do you offer samples before a full order?

Yes. A pre-production sample can be produced for your approval before the full run. Additional charges may apply.

What's the difference between screen printing and DTF?

Screen printing is best for bulk orders with limited colors; it's more durable and cost-effective at scale. DTF is better for small runs with complex, full-color artwork or polyester garments. We can help you choose.

Ready to start your project?

Free, no-obligation quote, returned quickly.