Digital screen printing is not a standard, widely recognized term. The provided reference explicitly contrasts digital printing with screen printing. Therefore, the term likely refers to methods that attempt to combine aspects of both traditional screen printing and digital printing. Since there is no consensus definition, it's best understood as potentially encompassing several different processes.
Here's a breakdown of possibilities, as the term "digital screen printing" can be interpreted in a few different ways:
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Digital Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, sometimes misleadingly called digital screen printing: This is a form of digital printing where a printer directly applies ink to the fabric. It uses inkjet technology and doesn't require screens or stencils, unlike traditional screen printing.
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Using digital technology to create screens for traditional screen printing: This involves using a computer, software, and a special printer to create the stencils (screens) used in traditional screen printing. This automates the screen-making process, but the printing itself is still traditional screen printing.
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Hybrid printing: Some systems combine digital printing with traditional screen printing within the same machine. For example, a digital printer might lay down a base layer or add fine details, and then screen printing adds thicker or specialized inks (like glitter or puff ink). This offers the benefits of both processes.
Here's a table summarizing the differences between traditional screen printing and direct digital printing:
| Feature | Traditional Screen Printing | Direct Digital Printing (DTG) |
|---|---|---|
| Process | Ink forced through a stencil onto the substrate | Ink directly printed onto the substrate |
| Setup | Requires screens and a setup process for each color | No screens required |
| Cost | High setup cost, economical for large runs | Lower setup cost, suitable for small runs |
| Complexity | More complex, requires skilled operators | Simpler process, easier to operate |
| Color Gradation | Challenging to achieve smooth gradients | Excellent for gradients and detailed images |
| Ink Thickness | Typically thicker ink layers | Thinner ink layers |
| Durability | Generally very durable | Can be durable depending on ink quality |
In conclusion, "digital screen printing" is an ambiguous term. It is most likely a misnomer for DTG printing or a reference to digital methods used in creating screens for traditional screen printing or a hybrid approach that combines digital printing technologies with screen printing.
