Screen or Digital Sticker Printing? What You Should Get

When searching for a sticker printer, one of the first questions you will be asked is whether you are looking for a screen sticker printer or a digital sticker printer. In case you are unaware, there are two ways you can print a sticker, and this article will tell you how they differ. Understanding their main distinctions can tell you more about what type of output you are going to get.

Here are the major differences between screen and digital printing when it comes to sticker printing.

Screen Printing vs Digital Printing

Screen printing uses a stencil (commonly known as a screen) when printing a design on a surface. It is a traditional method of printing that started in 1960. In this process, each colour needed for your image is applied to the stencil one after the other. They are combined to get the final look of the image you want to have.

Digital printing, on the other hand, is a newer process. When using this method, the image is directly printed onto the surface of the product. There is no heat transfer involved in the process or a plate needed for printing. For example, when printing a shirt design, the image is directly printed onto the shirt with ink. Once the design is digitised, it can be quickly printed in great quantities.

Advantages of Screen Printing

This process may take longer, but screen printing also has its advantages.

It is the best process for designs that require a high level of vibrancy. The ink used in screen printing is thick, making your design look more vibrant. It is the best type of printing for dark shirts or products with a darker base.

It is the print process best for products that follow a curved surface, like mugs and bottles. By using a stencil, the printer can correctly apply the design.

Screen printing can help lower your costs. For example, screen-printed labels can eliminate the need for individually printed stickers.

A screen-printed sticker is also durable, ensuring that your brand looks its best for a long time.

Advantages of Digital Printing

This printing method gives faster, more cost-effective, and more reliable results, making it a perfect process when printing large batches of items. If you want to save on time and resources, this method will be your best choice. You will get your printed materials in a quicker turnaround time than traditional screen printing.

Screen printing might have more vibrant and thicker colours, but the difference is not that significant. If your product base is light, you can get great results with digital printing. The image you get will still be high-quality and catch the attention of onlookers.

You can be more flexible with your design with digital printing. Since there are no plates needed to be prepared beforehand, the printer can print your images sooner.

Conclusion

The type of printing that suits your artwork depends on the factors mentioned above. Considering the facts you learned in this article about the screen and digital printing to determine which is best for your requirements. Both have advantages and can provide you with the quality print you desire.

Whether you are looking for screen or digital printing on the Gold Coast, Graffiti Stickers is here to help. We can customise and supply you with stickers anywhere you are in Australia. Contact us at (07) 5568 0386 if you want to learn more about our services.