Screen printing is one of the oldest, most durable, and most versatile techniques in the printing arts. Also known as "screen printing," this method is based on the principle of transferring ink through a mesh onto a surface. Today, it is used on a wide variety of surfaces including textiles, glass, metal, wood, and plastic, and has established a strong presence in both industrial production and artistic applications.

The word originates from the Latin word "series" (silk) and the Greek word "graphos" (writing, drawing). This actually shows that serigraphy has a long history. printing on silk fabric This shows that it is based on tradition.
Although polyester or metallic meshes are used instead of silk today, the basic principle of screen printing has remained the same:
The ink only passes through the desired areas, leaving other areas covered.

This simple but effective method can be applied with both manual and automated machines.
OkanGökhan Screen Printing Machines It is among the most preferred models in this field because it offers professional solutions with its domestic production quality.

The History of Screen Printing: From Silk to the Digital Age

The historical origins of screen printing can be traced back to Asia, particularly China and Japan. In the 10th century, Japanese artists were using a method of transferring patterns onto silk fabrics with paint. This technique spread from Asia to Europe via the Silk Road trade.

15. In the 17th century, hand printing on silk contributed to the birth of the textile industry in Europe. However, screen printing..., With the industrial revolution in the early 20th century They became truly widespread together.

American artist Andy Warhol, In the 1960s, the "pop art" movement brought screen printing to the forefront of art. Warhol's famous work... Marilyn Monroe Its publication proved that screen printing could be not only a form of production but also a form of expression.
Today, both artists and producers prefer this method because screen printing is both handmade as well as industrial productivity They offer them simultaneously.

Screen printing is no longer just an art form; it's now at the heart of large-scale industrial production.
By 2025, local manufacturers like Okan Gökhan are increasing Türkiye's global competitiveness in this field.
(Internal link: What is screen printing?)

The Basic Principle of Screen Printing

Screen printing is a seemingly simple but highly delicate technical process.
A layer of special light-sensitive emulsion is applied to a thin mesh stretched over a frame. The design is then transferred onto this surface using an exposure method.
Light hardens enclosed spaces; open spaces, on the other hand, are cleansed and left bare.
That's where the ink passes through — only the desired pattern is transferred to the printing surface.

The most critical stages of this process are as follows:

1. Preparation: The mold must be clean, stretched, and smooth.
2. Exposure: The correct lighting duration determines the sharpness of the pattern.
3. Ink Application: The ink is evenly distributed using a squeegee.
4. Drying: The ink is fixed in systems such as air or Rayk drying racks.
5. Cleaning: The mold is made reusable.

The drying stage is particularly important in determining the durability of the print.
Rayk Screen Printing Drying Rack These systems have become the industry standard in this regard because they ensure the ink dries evenly.

The Difference Between Screen Printing and Other Printing Methods

Unlike methods such as screen printing, digital printing, or transfer printing, it establishes a physical bond with the surface.
The ink dries within the surface, providing both textural depth and long-lasting color.

In terms of visual print quality, screen printing still surpasses digital printing systems. Especially in industrial production (for example, printing on glass, metal, or plexiglass), the durability offered by screen printing makes it the preferred choice despite its cost.

This difference explains why screen printing is still considered the "professional printing standard".
(External link: Wikipedia – Screen Printing)

Advantages of Screen Printing: Why Is It Still Preferred?

There are many reasons why screen printing will remain popular even in 2025:

• Quality and Durability: Because the paint penetrates the surface, it doesn't fade or wear out easily.
• Versatility: It can be applied to almost any surface, including textiles, metal, wood, plastic, and glass.
• Color Intensity: Opaque inks create vibrant and saturated colors.
• Longevity: It is possible for the product to last for more than 5 years.
• Artistic Value: Each print is handcrafted, resulting in a unique outcome.

Screen printing is not just a production method, but also a craft and an aesthetic expression.
Many professional workshops are using Okan Gökhan's domestically produced products to increase production efficiency. vacuum printing tables And drying systemsHe prefers it.

(Internal link: Screen Printing Machines and Systems)

Modern Screen Printing: Redefined by Technology

Traditional screen printing methods have become much more modern with the digital age.
Automatic screen printing machines can now adjust color transitions with millimeter precision.
Thanks to UV curing technologies, the ink dries in seconds.
Nevertheless, the spirit of screen printing, namely "printing by touch," is still preserved.

Today hybrid systems These combinations, as they are called, combine the speed of digital printing with the quality of screen printing.
In these systems, basic colors are applied using screen printing, and details are applied digitally.

(External link: Britannica – Silk Screen Process)
(External link: Printmaking.org – Screen Techniques)

Screen Printing Paints, Machines, and Application Process

The success of screen printing depends heavily on the quality of the equipment and inks used. Even a small error during application can directly affect the print result.
Therefore, in a professional screen printing workshop, every stage must be carefully planned: plate preparation, ink selection, printing application, drying, and final inspection.
As of 2025, Okan Gökhan stands out with its domestically produced screen printing equipment suitable for every step of this process.

Screen Printing Inks: The Soul of Printing

Screen printing ink determines the character of the print. The ink's composition directly affects the color depth, adhesion to the surface, and durability.
There are basically four main types of paint:

1. PVC (Plastisol) Screen Printing Paints

PVC paints are the most commonly used type of paint in textile printing that requires high color saturation and gloss.
It is heat resistant and easily fixed with post-printing baking or Rayk drying rack.

• Advantage: Long-lasting, vibrant colors.
• Disadvantage: It is not environmentally friendly because it contains solvents.
• Usage Area: T-shirts, sweatshirts, tote bags, sportswear.

(Internal link: Types and Properties of Screen Printing Inks)

2. Water-Based Paints

Water-based paints with natural ingredients are preferred, especially in organic textile production.
It is odorless and environmentally friendly.
However, the color saturation is slightly lower compared to PVC paints.

• Advantage: Skin-friendly, environmentally friendly.
• Disadvantage: Long drying time.
• Application Area: Children's clothing, cotton fabrics, light-colored surfaces.

3. UV Screen Printing Inks

UV paints provide excellent adhesion to hard surfaces such as glass, metal, and plexiglass.
It dries in seconds under a UV lamp.
This significantly increases production speed.

• Advantages: Fast drying, solvent-free.
• Disadvantage: High equipment costs.
• Applications: Glass bottles, metal plates, advertising signs.

(External link: Wikipedia – Ultraviolet Curing)

4. Solvent-Based Paints

Solvent-based inks used in industrial printing offer excellent adhesion and abrasion resistance.
It is preferred on metal and plastic surfaces.

• Advantage: Scratch-resistant, long-lasting.
• Disadvantage: Strong odor and contains chemicals.
• Applications: Electronic panels, automotive labels.

Screen Printing Machines: The Heart of Production

Screen printing machines are another key element in determining print quality.
When selecting a machine, production capacity, type of printing surface, and type of ink to be used should be considered.

Manual Screen Printing Machines

Ideal for small workshops.
The manually controlled squeegee and printing plate provide the user with complete control.
It's a perfect solution for low-volume printing.

(Internal link: OkanGökhan Manual Printing Tables)

Semi-Automatic Screen Printing Machines

It combines both hand craftsmanship and machine precision.
It is used on large printing surfaces and with repeating patterns.
It is frequently preferred by small and medium-sized producers.

Fully Automatic Screen Printing Machines

It was developed for companies engaged in mass production.
Printing, ink supply, and drying processes are all fully automated.
It shortens production time while minimizing the margin of error.

⚙️ Okan Gökhan is making a difference in the industry in 2025 with the first fully automatic screen printing machines produced in Türkiye.

(Dış link: Britannica – Industrial Printing Techniques)

Screen Printing Process: Step-by-Step Application

Screen printing is a disciplined process.
If the steps are not followed in order, problems such as color mixing, ink bleeding, or insufficient drying may occur.

1. Mold Preparation

A special emulsion is applied to silk or polyester knit. The design is transferred to a mold by exposure to UV light.
"Exposure time" is very important at this stage; too much will cause detail to be lost, and too little will prevent the pattern from setting properly.

2. Paint Application

A squeegee transfers the ink to the surface by passing it through a mold.
The angle should generally be kept around 45°. Too much pressure will cause color bleeding.

3. Drying

The drying stage is essential for the paint to adhere properly to the surface.
Rayk screen printing drying racks, It ensures homogeneous drying thanks to hot air circulation.
(Internal link: Rayk Drying Rack 2025)

4. Final Check

Color accuracy, alignment, and adhesion quality are tested.
Printing samples in small batches helps prevent major production errors.

7 Golden Rules for Improving Screen Printing Quality

1. Clean Equipment: The stencil and squeegee should be cleaned after each use.
2. The Right Ink: The paint should be chosen according to the surface type.
3. Temperature Control: Drying should be done at a constant temperature between 150–160°C.
4. Sieve Selection: A mesh size of 120–150 is ideal for detailed prints.
5. Vacuum Table: It ensures proper alignment.
6. Test Print: Color intensity should be tested beforehand.
7. Drying Time: Insufficient drying leads to cracking.

OkanGökhan workshops achieve maximum color quality even in high-volume production by standardizing these quality steps.
(Internal link: Screen Printing Quality Control Guide)

Common Mistakes in Screen Printing

• Excessive Ink Usage: It causes paint bleeding and pattern distortion.
• Incorrect Squeegee Angle: It causes color dispersion.
• Drying at Low Temperatures: The paint cracks or peels.
• Insufficient Exposure: Detail is lost.
• Unsuitable Paint: It does not adhere to surfaces and fades quickly.

Most of these mistakes can easily be avoided with the right equipment and experience.
Developed by Okan Gökhan Rayk drying systems And vacuum printing tables, This minimizes these types of problems.

(External link: Printmaking.org – Troubleshooting Screen Printing)

Advantages, Future, and Applications of Screen Printing

Screen printing is not just a printing method, but also a symbol of quality and durability.
This technique, used for centuries, combined with today's technology, will still be relevant in 2025. an indispensable part of industrial production It is in this state.
Screen printing is far superior to digital systems in terms of both color vibrancy and longevity.
In this section, we will discuss in detail the advantages of screen printing, its future role, and its application areas in different sectors.

Advantages of Screen Printing

Screen printing offers numerous advantages for manufacturers and designers.
Understanding these advantages reveals why many professionals still prefer this method.

1. Long-lasting and Durable Prints

Screen printing inks penetrate the surface, providing long-lasting protection.
It exhibits high resistance to UV rays, washing, and friction.
Especially for outdoor prints, it offers 3-4 times longer lifespan compared to digital printing.

2. Rich Color Depth

Screen printing transfers ink to the surface in thick layers.
This also means more vibrant, intense, and saturated colors.
Color saturation provides a depth that cannot be achieved in digital printing.

3. Wide Surface Application Area

Screen printing can be applied to almost any surface: fabric, glass, metal, wood, ceramic, plexiglass, plastic, and more.
This versatility makes it indispensable in both industrial and artistic fields.

4. Economical Mass Production

For high-volume production, the cost is much lower compared to digital printing.
Once the mold is prepared, thousands of prints can be made.
This makes screen printing economical for large-scale firms.

5. Professional and Aesthetic Appearance

Screen printing offers a textural feel and a high-quality look.
Therefore, it is a factor that strengthens brand image in the textile, decoration, packaging, and advertising industries.

(Internal link: Screen Printing Machines and Systems)

Applications of Screen Printing

Screen printing is actively used in many sectors, both commercial and artistic.
Its ability to adapt to any surface makes it one of the most flexible production techniques.

1. Textile Sector

Screen printing is preferred for t-shirts, sweatshirts, bags, hats, and other clothing items.
The dyes penetrate the fabric fibers, ensuring long-lasting use.
Brands that use organic products prefer water-based screen printing inks.

(Internal link: What is Screen Printing Paint? Types, Properties, and Applications)

2. Advertising and Promotion Sector

Screen printing yields unparalleled results on plexiglass signs, metal panels, and glass display case prints.
Thanks to UV-resistant paints that withstand outdoor conditions, it remains fade-resistant for many years.
It is particularly preferred for logos, directional signs, and packaging printing.

3. Industrial Production

Screen printing is also actively used in the world of industrial design.
Electronic circuit boards, glass bottles, automotive parts, device panels, and metal labels are classic examples of this method.
Solvent-based inks are preferred for these high-precision printing applications.

(External link: Britannica – Industrial Printing Techniques)

4. Art and Hobby Areas

Screen printing is one of the rare techniques in the art world that has managed to preserve the spirit of "hand printing".
Artists create works of art with depth and a handcrafted feel by layering different colors on top of each other.
Andy Warhol's screen printing works have cemented the place of this technique in art.

5. Promotional Products and Decorations

For promotional products such as mugs, pens, agendas, and notebooks, screen printing is still the most professional method.
It is also preferred in interior decorations, wood panels, and wall art.

(Internal link: Applications of Screen Printing)

The Future of Screen Printing: Traditional Quality in the Digital Age

While digitalization is rapidly increasing in the printing world today, screen printing retains its "classic yet indispensable" status.
Because although digital printing is practical, screen printing's color intensity, durability, and surface variety. It is still unique.

Trends after 2025, hybrid systemsThis indicates that (a combination of screen printing and digital printing) will become more widespread.
In this new technology, screen printing creates the substrate, while digital printing creates the details and effects.
This allows both speed and quality to be achieved simultaneously.

📈 Screen printing complements digital printing not in speed, but in durability.

Okan Gökhan, in this transformation process in Türkiye Rayk screen printing drying systems, vacuum printing tables And domestically produced machines It stands out with...
(Internal link: Rayk Screen Printing Drying Rack Prices 2025)

(External link: Wikipedia – Screen Printing)
(External link: Printmaking.org – Screen Printing Techniques)

Suggestions for Improving Quality in Screen Printing

To achieve excellent results in screen printing, certain fundamental principles must be observed:

1. Mold Stress: The pattern shouldn't be too loose, otherwise the design will shift.
2. Paint Density: Thick layers can create a color clash. A specific mixture should be used for each surface.
3. Drying Temperature: With Rayk systems, temperatures between 150–160°C are ideal.
4. Color Harmony: The mixture should be made according to the Pantone system.
5. Trial Edition: Test printing is absolutely necessary before mass production.

(Internal link: Screen Printing Quality Control Guide)

Screen Printing or Digital Printing? Which is Better?

This question is frequently asked in the printing industry.
Actually, the right answer depends on your needs.
However, in terms of quality, color depth, and longevity, screen printing still leads the way.
Digital printing is suitable for short-term, low-volume jobs, while screen printing is ideal for long-running productions.

In short:

• Low quantity, fast production = Digital Printing
• Large quantity, high quality = Screen printing

(Internal link: Screen Printing or Digital Printing?)

Conclusion: Screen Printing, The Timeless Method of Quality

Screen printing is a unique printing method that combines both the handiwork of the past and the technology of today.
A single plate can produce thousands of prints, and the colors can remain vibrant for years.
At OkanGökhan, we combine this long-standing technique with modern solutions; with Rayk brand systems, we are building the future of the screen printing industry in Türkiye.

Screen printing is not just a production method, It is an indicator of quality and consistency..
Even today, many professional manufacturers arrive at the same conclusion when aiming for the highest quality:

“"True quality lies in screen printing."”