What Is Silk Screen Printing? How Many Types Are There?
- Pitsinee Pannasuriyaporn
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Silk screen printing, also known as screen printing, is one of the most popular and widely used methods in the garment industry. It delivers vibrant colors, excellent durability, and is ideal for large-volume production.
What many people may not realize is that silk screen printing comes in multiple variations, each offering its own unique texture, finish, and visual effect.
Below are 10 major types of screen printing techniques, along with clear explanations to help you choose the most suitable option for your project.
1. Plastisol Screen (สกรีนพลาสติซอล)
✔ Key Characteristics
Plastisol ink delivers bright, vibrant colors with a slightly raised texture. It is highly durable, making it one of the most commonly used inks in apparel decoration.
✔ Highlights
Bold and vibrant colors
Excellent wash durability
Works well with special effects like Puff or High Density
2. Water-Based Ink (สีน้ำ)
✔ Key Characteristics
Water-based ink absorbs into the fibers of the garment, resulting in a soft, breathable finish that feels like part of the fabric.
✔ Highlights
Soft and natural feel
Highly breathable
Ideal for large prints that require softness
3. Discharge Screen (สกรีนฟอก / ลอกสี)
✔ Key Characteristics
This technique removes the original dye from dark garments and replaces it with new pigment. It produces the softest finish among all screen-printing methods.
✔ Highlights
Extremely soft, no hand feel
Vibrant results on dark fabrics
Creates a premium vintage or retro look
4. Rubber Screen (สกรีนยาง)
✔ Key Characteristics
Rubber ink provides a slightly raised, bold print with bright color payoff. It is durable and ideal for prints that need strong visibility.
✔ Highlights
Very vibrant colors
Durable and long-lasting
Great for bold logos and graphic artwork
5. High Density Screen (สกรีนไฮเดน)
✔ Key Characteristics
High Density ink produces a thick, elevated print with sharp edges, resulting in a premium, three-dimensional appearance.
✔ Highlights
Strong 3D raised effect
Premium visual finish
Thick, sturdy surface
6. Puff Screen (สกรีนนูน)
✔ Key Characteristics
Puff ink expands when heated, creating a soft, raised, foam-like texture.
✔ Highlights
Soft, puffy dimension
Helps hide small imperfections
More affordable than High Density
7. Metallic Screen (สีโลหะ – ทอง/เงิน)
✔ Key Characteristics
Metallic inks offer a shiny, reflective finish that resembles metal. Perfect for designs that require a luxurious or eye-catching look.
✔ Highlights
Shiny, metallic appearance
Instantly elevates the design
Ideal for accents and logos
8. Glitter Screen (สกรีนกากเพชร)
✔ Key Characteristics
Glitter ink contains sparkly particles that create a shimmering, eye-catching effect.
✔ Highlights
Sparkly and attention-grabbing
Adds uniqueness and visual interest
Great for themed or fashion-forward designs
9. Reflective Screen (สะท้อนแสง)
✔ Key Characteristics
Reflective ink lights up when exposed to direct light, such as flash photography or vehicle headlights. It enhances visibility in low-light environments.
✔ Highlights
Safety and visibility in the dark
Special reflective effect in photos
Distinctive glossy finish
Silk screen printing is not just one method—it encompasses more than 10 different techniques, each providing its own look, texture, and durability. Whether you want a soft and natural print, a bold raised logo, or a special effect like metallic shine or reflective visibility, choosing the right technique can significantly enhance the final quality, durability, and branding impact of your apparel.