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Home  >  Catalogue

By Aisha - 6 min read

How Much Does Screen Printing Cost?

What is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is one of the most versatile and popular methods for creating custom apparel. Whether you’re designing promotional t-shirts for an event, branding uniforms for your team, or crafting unique items for a special occasion, screen printing offers vibrant, durable results that stand out. Its ability to handle large quantities and complex designs makes it a go-to choice for businesses and individuals alike.

Why Understanding Screen Printing Costs is Important

But when it comes to screen printing, one of the most common questions is: how much does it cost? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Screen printing costs can vary based on several factors, such as the type of garment you choose, the complexity of your design, the quantity of your order, and even the policies of the printing provider.


Understanding these factors is essential for making budget-friendly decisions.

Key Considerations That Affect Screen Printing Costs

For example:

  • Garment Type: A basic cotton tee will be far less expensive than a premium hoodie or specialty fabric.
  • Design Complexity: A one-color logo costs less than a multi-color design that requires separate screens for each color.
  • Order Size: Larger orders often benefit from reduced per-unit pricing due to economies of scale.

Why Choosing the Right Provider Matters

Moreover, the policies of your printing provider can make a significant difference. Some companies charge hidden fees for screen setup, design assistance, or rush services. That’s why it’s important to work with a provider like Yes We Print, which offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees and a low minimum order requirement.

Key Factors Influencing the Cost of Screen Printing

Screen printing costs are shaped by a combination of factors. From the type of garment you choose to the complexity of your design, each element contributes to the final price. Understanding these key factors can help you make informed decisions that align with your budget and design goals.

 

Type of Garment


The type of garment you select significantly impacts the overall cost of your screen printing project. Different materials, styles, and garment types have varying base prices.

 

  • Cotton T-shirts: These are among the most cost-effective options for screen printing, making them a popular choice for events, promotions, and bulk orders.
  • Hoodies and Sweatshirts: Heavier and more complex garments like hoodies or sweatshirts typically cost more due to the material and increased print area.
  • Specialty Fabrics: Items like polyester performance wear or blended fabrics may require specific inks or techniques, which can increase the cost.

 

For the best results and budget efficiency, consider your purpose and audience when selecting a garment. A basic cotton tee might suffice for a casual event, while a high-end hoodie might be perfect for branding or team uniforms.

 

Printing Technique


The printing method you choose also affects the overall cost, with screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) being the two most common options.

 

  • Screen Printing: Best for larger orders, screen printing offers vibrant and long-lasting results. However, the setup process involves creating individual screens for each color in your design, which can increase the upfront cost. Once the setup is complete, the cost per unit decreases significantly, making it ideal for bulk orders.
  • Direct-to-Garment (DTG): This method is better suited for small orders or highly detailed designs with numerous colors. DTG eliminates the need for screen setup, but the per-unit cost remains higher compared to screen printing in larger quantities.


When to Choose Screen Printing: If you’re ordering 15 or more items, screen printing is often the most cost-effective choice due to the reduced per-unit cost after setup.

 

Number of Colors in the Design


Screen printing costs are also influenced by the number of colors in your design. Each color requires its own screen, which adds to the setup cost.

 

  • Single-Color Designs: These are more affordable as they require fewer screens and less production time.
  • Multi-Color Designs: Complex designs with multiple colors increase the cost, as each additional screen adds to the setup expense.


Budgeting Tip: Simplify your design by limiting the number of colors to keep costs down while still achieving a striking result. Opt for creative use of negative space or halftone effects to add depth without additional colors.


Quantity of Items Ordered


The quantity of items in your order plays a major role in determining the cost per unit. Screen printing becomes increasingly cost-effective as the order size grows.

 

  • Economies of Scale: Larger orders spread the setup costs across more items, reducing the per-unit price significantly.
  • Low Minimum Orders: At Yes We Print, you can order as few as 6 pieces for screen printing, ensuring that even small orders remain accessible and affordable.


Example:

 

  • Ordering 50 t-shirts with a simple, single-color design will result in a lower cost per shirt compared to ordering only 15 items.
  • Bulk orders not only save money but also provide a buffer for extras if you’re printing for events or giveaways.


By understanding these key factors—garment type, printing technique, design complexity, and order size—you’ll be better equipped to plan your screen printing project efficiently. Providers like Yes We Print make this process even easier with transparent pricing and no hidden fees, helping you achieve high-quality results without breaking the bank.

Additional Costs to Consider

When budgeting for screen printing, it’s important to be aware of potential additional costs that can impact your total expenses. While some of these costs are common in the industry, providers like Yes We Print stand out by offering transparent pricing and cost-saving features.

 

Setup Fees


In traditional screen printing, setup fees are often charged for creating the screens used in the process. These fees can vary based on the number of colors in your design, as each color requires a separate screen. Setup costs typically cover:

 

  • Preparing the artwork for screen creation.
  • Burning the design onto the screens.
  • Aligning and calibrating the screens for accurate printing.


However, Yes We Print eliminates this expense entirely with their no-setup-fee policy, saving you money upfront. This transparent approach ensures that you only pay for the items you order, without any hidden charges for setup or preparation.

 

Rush Orders and Expedited Services


Sometimes, deadlines can sneak up on you, requiring faster turnaround times for your screen printing order. Most companies charge extra for expedited services, especially for same-day or next-day delivery.


At Yes We Print, rush orders are handled with efficiency, and they even offer same-day printing for urgent projects based on availability. While expedited services may increase costs slightly, the ability to meet tight deadlines without compromising quality is invaluable.

 

When to Consider Rush Orders:

 

  • Last-minute event merchandise.
  • Emergency restocks for promotional items.
  • Fast delivery for unexpected team needs or giveaways.


Pro Tip: Plan ahead whenever possible to avoid additional rush fees, but rest assured that Yes We Print has you covered if you’re in a pinch.

 

Custom Design Assistance


For those who need help finalizing their designs, professional design services can often add to the overall cost of screen printing. Many providers charge fees for:

 

  • Artwork adjustments or resizing.
  • Creating designs from scratch.
  • Preparing files in print-ready formats.


With Yes We Print, you can enjoy design assistance at no additional cost. Their team of experts ensures your artwork is optimized for printing without tacking on extra fees. This feature is especially beneficial for businesses or individuals without access to professional design tools.


By choosing a provider like Yes We Print, you can avoid many of the extra costs typically associated with screen printing. From eliminating setup fees to offering complimentary design help and accommodating rush orders, they make it easier to stay within budget while still achieving high-quality results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Budgeting for Screen Printing

Budgeting for screen printing can be straightforward when you understand the key cost factors. However, many people make mistakes that can inflate their expenses or lead to unexpected challenges. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a smooth and cost-effective printing experience.

1. Failing to Plan for Rush Orders

One of the biggest budgeting mistakes is not accounting for potential rush orders. Whether you’re printing for a last-minute event or realize you need additional items sooner than expected, expedited services can add to your overall cost.


How to Avoid This Mistake:

 

  • Plan ahead and allow ample time for production and delivery.
  • Partner with a provider like Yes We Print, which offers rush printing and transparent pricing for rush services, ensuring you’re not blindsided by extra fees if you’re in a time crunch.

2. Underestimating the Importance of Design Simplicity

While intricate, multi-color designs can be eye-catching, they also significantly increase printing costs. Each additional color requires its own screen, which adds to setup time and expense. Failing to consider this can lead to higher-than-expected costs.


How to Avoid This Mistake:

 

  • Opt for simpler designs with fewer colors to reduce costs.
  • Explore creative techniques like halftone effects, which add depth and texture without increasing the number of screens required.
  • Consult with experts at Yes We Print, who can help optimize your design for cost efficiency without sacrificing impact.

3. Choosing Unsuitable Garments for the Intended Purpose

Selecting the wrong type of garment can lead to unnecessary expenses or dissatisfaction with the final product. For example, using premium hoodies for a one-time promotional event may not be cost-effective, while opting for thin t-shirts for work uniforms may result in durability issues.


How to Avoid This Mistake:

 

Match the garment type to its intended use. For example:

 

  • Cotton tees for casual events or giveaways.
  • Hoodies or sweatshirts for branding or colder climates.
  • Performance fabrics for athletic wear or active events.
  • Work with a provider like Yes We Print to explore garment options that balance quality and affordability.Work with a provider like Yes We Print to explore garment options that balance quality and affordability.

By avoiding these common mistakes—failing to plan for rush orders, overcomplicating designs, and choosing unsuitable garments—you can save money and ensure your screen printing project meets your goals. A little preparation goes a long way, and with a trusted partner like Yes We Print, budgeting for screen printing becomes simpler and more predictable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Screen Printing Costs

Screen printing often sparks questions about pricing, especially when customers want to stay within budget while ensuring high-quality results. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions to help you navigate the costs associated with this popular printing method.

What is the Average Cost of Screen Printing a T-Shirt?

The average cost of screen printing a t-shirt varies depending on the number of colors in the design and the complexity of the artwork.

 

  • Single-Color Designs: These are typically the most affordable, ranging from $5 to $12 per shirt, depending on the quantity and garment type.
  • Multi-Color Designs: Adding more colors increases the cost due to the need for additional screens. Prices for multi-color designs may range from $8 to $20 per shirt.


Variables That Influence Cost:

 

  • Garment Type: Cotton tees are less expensive than specialty fabrics.
  • Quantity: Larger orders lower the per-unit price.
  • Design Complexity: Intricate designs with multiple colors require more setup and production time, increasing the overall cost.

How Much Does Screen Printing Cost for Bulk Orders?

Screen printing is highly cost-effective for bulk orders due to economies of scale. As the order size increases, the cost per item decreases because the setup costs are distributed across more units.

 

Cost Breakdown Examples:

 

  • 50 pieces: ~$7–$12 per shirt for single-color designs.
  • 100 pieces: ~$6–$10 per shirt, with additional savings on larger runs.
  • 500 pieces: Prices can drop as low as $4–$7 per shirt for simple designs.

 

Why Bulk Orders Are More Cost-Effective:


Larger orders make better use of the screen setup costs, and many providers, including Yes We Print, offer tiered pricing to encourage bulk purchasing.

Does Screen Printing Cost More for Complex Designs?

Yes, complex designs generally cost more because:

 

  • Each color in the design requires a separate screen, increasing setup fees.
  • Intricate artwork may require additional time for alignment and printing.

 

How to Minimize Costs for Complex Designs:

 

  • Simplify the design by reducing the number of colors.
  • Use creative techniques, like halftones, to simulate gradients without requiring additional screens.
  • Work with a provider like Yes We Print, who can help you optimize your design for cost-efficiency.

Are There Hidden Fees in Screen Printing Services?

Many screen printing providers charge hidden fees that can unexpectedly inflate your budget. These fees may include:

 

  • Setup Charges: For creating screens for each color.
  • Design Assistance Fees: For modifying or preparing artwork.
  • Rush Order Fees: For expedited services.


Why Yes We Print Stands Out:


With Yes We Print, there are no hidden fees. They offer a transparent pricing model with no setup charges, no design assistance fees, and clear rush order pricing, ensuring you know exactly what you’re paying for upfront.

What is the Cheapest Option for Printing a Custom T-Shirt?

The most affordable option for custom t-shirts often depends on the design and quantity.

 

  • When to Choose DTG: Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is cost-effective for small orders or single pieces, as it eliminates screen setup costs.
  • When to Choose Screen Printing: Screen printing is cheaper for larger orders due to the lower per-unit cost after setup. Single-color designs are particularly budget-friendly.


Tips for Reducing Overall Costs:

 

  • Simplify your design to avoid multiple screen charges.
  • Opt for bulk orders to take advantage of tiered pricing.
  • Use a trusted provider like Yes We Print for transparent pricing and no hidden fees.

These FAQs address the most common concerns about screen printing costs, helping you make informed decisions while staying within your budget. For personalized pricing, reach out to Yes We Print for a quick and accurate quote!

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Why Choose Yes We Print for Your Screen Printing Needs?

When it comes to screen printing, the provider you choose can make a huge difference in the overall experience, cost, and final results. Yes We Print stands out as a trusted partner for all your screen printing needs, offering unmatched benefits that cater to individuals, businesses, and organizations alike.

1. Transparent Pricing: No Hidden Fees

One of the biggest advantages of working with Yes We Print is their commitment to transparent pricing. Unlike many providers that sneak in additional charges for setup, screen creation, or design assistance, Yes We Print offers an all-inclusive pricing model.

 

  • No Setup Fees: Save money upfront, as there’s no charge for creating the screens needed for your design.
  • No Screen Fees: Additional colors in your design? No problem! There’s no hidden cost for extra screens.
  • Free Design Assistance: Whether you need help finalizing your artwork or optimizing it for screen printing, Yes We Print provides professional design support at no extra charge.


With this pricing model, you can confidently plan your project, knowing there won’t be any surprise costs.

2. Flexibility to Meet Your Needs

Yes We Print understands that every customer’s needs are different, and they offer flexible solutions to accommodate a variety of projects.

 

  • Low Minimum Orders: Whether you need 15 pieces for a small event or 500 for a large-scale promotional campaign, Yes We Print ensures you get the same high-quality service.
  • Quick Quotes: Get an accurate and detailed price estimate in as little as 5–7 minutes. Their responsive quoting process saves you time and helps you make decisions faster.
  • Rush Orders Welcome: Need your order quickly? Yes We Print offers expedited services, including same-day printing, without sacrificing quality.

3. High-Quality Results for Small and Bulk Projects

At Yes We Print, quality is never compromised, whether you’re ordering a single piece or a large batch. Their expertise in screen printing ensures every project is executed with precision and attention to detail.

 

  • Vibrant and Durable Prints: Designs are bold, crisp, and long-lasting, withstanding multiple washes and everyday wear.
  • Versatility Across Projects: From simple t-shirts to intricate multi-color designs on specialty fabrics, Yes We Print delivers consistent, high-quality results.
  • Focus on Customer Satisfaction: Their team works closely with you to ensure your vision is brought to life exactly as you imagined.

Why You Should Make Yes We Print Your Go-To Screen Printing Partner

Choosing Yes We Print means you’ll enjoy competitive pricing, unparalleled flexibility, and professional results that exceed expectations. Whether you’re printing for a small group, a large-scale event, or a business promotion, their transparent policies and commitment to quality make them the clear choice.


Don’t settle for hidden fees or mediocre prints. Partner with Yes We Print for a seamless, stress-free screen printing experience tailored to your needs!

Case Study: How Yes We Print Helped a Business Save on Screen Printing

The Challenge: A Tight Deadline and Limited Budget


A Los Angeles-based event planning company was gearing up for a major outdoor festival. As part of the event, they wanted to provide custom-printed t-shirts for volunteers, staff, and attendees. The goal was to create eye-catching, high-quality designs that reflected the festival’s vibrant theme. However, they faced two significant challenges:

 

  • A Limited Budget: With most of their funds allocated to other event logistics, the company needed a cost-effective solution for printing over 500 t-shirts.
  • A Tight Deadline: Due to last-minute adjustments to the event schedule, they had only three days to design, print, and deliver the shirts.

 

After reaching out to multiple screen printing providers, the company encountered issues with high setup fees, hidden costs, and unrealistic turnaround times—until they discovered Yes We Print.

 

The Solution: Transparent Pricing and Fast Turnaround


Yes We Print stepped in to deliver exactly what the company needed. Here’s how they made it happen:

 

  • Transparent Pricing: Yes We Print provided a detailed, upfront quote within minutes, eliminating the confusion of hidden fees. Their no-setup-fee policy saved the company hundreds of dollars in upfront costs, while complimentary design assistance ensured the artwork was optimized for screen printing without extra charges.
  • Cost-Effective Bulk Order: By leveraging economies of scale, Yes We Print offered a competitive price for the bulk order, with the per-shirt cost significantly reduced for 500 units.
  • Same-Day Printing: With their industry-leading turnaround time, Yes We Print began production immediately. The entire order was completed and delivered in just two days—well ahead of the festival kickoff.

 

The Outcome: Cost Savings, Quality, and Timely Delivery


The event planning company was thrilled with the results:

 

  • Significant Cost Savings: By avoiding setup fees and benefiting from bulk pricing, the company stayed well within their budget while receiving high-quality products.
  • Exceptional Quality: The t-shirts featured vibrant, durable prints that showcased the festival’s branding perfectly, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
  • Ahead of Schedule: The quick turnaround gave the company peace of mind, allowing them to focus on other aspects of the festival without worrying about delays.

 

Why This Matters


This real-world example highlights how Yes We Print is more than just a screen printing provider—they are a reliable partner for businesses with tight deadlines and budgets. Their commitment to transparency, quality, and speed ensures that clients get the best value without compromising on results.
Whether you’re planning a festival, a corporate event, or a promotional campaign, Yes We Print is ready to help you save time and money while delivering outstanding screen-printed products. Get started today and experience the difference!

How to Calculate the Cost of Your Screen Printing Project

Calculating the cost of a screen printing project can be streamlined when you consider a few lesser-discussed but equally important aspects. Beyond the basics of garment type, quantity, and design complexity, there are additional insights that can make your budgeting more precise and impactful.

1. Understand the Role of Printing Method Efficiency

The efficiency of screen printing shines with larger orders, but it’s important to account for the balance between setup costs and per-unit pricing.

 

  • For smaller runs with complex designs, consider whether Direct-to-Garment (DTG) might be a better fit.
  • For bulk orders, screen printing delivers unbeatable value as the per-unit cost decreases.


Understanding this dynamic helps avoid unnecessary overproduction or underutilization of resources.

2. Factor in Specialty Printing Options

Specialty inks and finishes, such as metallic, glow-in-the-dark, or puff ink, can add uniqueness to your design but also come with extra costs. These customizations are ideal for premium branding or special occasions but may not be necessary for all projects.

 

  • Be strategic in using specialty finishes for designs where they provide the most impact.
  • Consult with Yes We Print to see if these add-ons align with your budget and vision.

3. Prioritize Your Core Needs

Focus on what matters most to your project. For example:

 

  • If the design is meant to promote a brand, prioritize print clarity and quality over extras like high-end garments.
  • For giveaways or temporary events, consider economical garment options to stay within budget while maximizing quantity.

4. Evaluate Long-Term Value of Bulk Orders

While larger orders lower the per-unit price, consider the purpose of the items. Ordering excessive quantities may lead to leftover stock, while ordering too few can result in additional reprint costs later.


Tips:

 

  • Use bulk orders strategically for evergreen designs (e.g., company branding) that won’t go out of style.
  • For seasonal or one-time events, aim for a balanced quantity that aligns with the audience size.

5. Include Shipping and Delivery Timing

When calculating the cost of your screen printing project, it’s easy to overlook the impact of shipping and delivery. However, these factors can significantly affect your overall budget and timeline, especially for larger orders or last-minute requests.


Shipping Fees and Rush Orders

 

  • Many screen printing providers charge extra for shipping, particularly for expedited delivery. These fees can add up quickly, especially for bulk orders or tight deadlines.
  • For rush orders, always confirm the provider’s ability to meet your timeline without sacrificing quality.


Yes We Print’s Free Delivery


At Yes We Print, shipping is never a surprise expense—they offer free delivery for all orders, helping you keep costs predictable and manageable. Whether you’re ordering 15 t-shirts or 500, free delivery ensures your items arrive on time without extra charges eating into your budget.


Quick Turnaround Without Compromising Quality


Yes We Print’s efficient production process includes rush printing options, making it an ideal choice for last-minute projects. Despite their fast turnaround, they maintain impeccable quality, ensuring your designs are as vibrant and durable as promised.


Why This Matters:


With free delivery and quick turnaround, Yes We Print removes the uncertainty around shipping costs and deadlines, letting you focus on creating the perfect custom apparel without stretching your budget or timeline.

6. Explore Bundle Opportunities

Many providers offer discounts for bundling services, such as combining screen printing with embroidery or adding accessories like tote bags. While this increases the overall spend, it can lower the per-item cost for comprehensive branding needs.

How Does Screen Printing Compare to Other Printing Methods in Terms of Cost?

Screen printing is one of the most cost-effective methods for printing large quantities. Its initial setup costs may be higher due to the creation of screens for each color in the design, but the per-unit cost decreases significantly with larger orders.


In comparison:

 

  • Direct-to-Garment (DTG): Ideal for small orders or highly detailed, multi-color designs. However, the per-unit cost remains higher for bulk orders compared to screen printing.
  • Heat Transfer Printing: Often used for smaller runs or personalized designs. While affordable for one-off items, it lacks the scalability and cost efficiency of screen printing for larger projects.

 

Conclusion: For bulk orders with simple to moderately complex designs, screen printing offers the best value in terms of cost and durability.

Is Screen Printing Cost-Effective for Small Orders?

Screen printing can be less cost-effective for very small orders due to setup costs, which remain fixed regardless of quantity. These include the creation of screens and preparation of the design.


However, Yes We Print minimizes this barrier with a low minimum order requirement of just 6 pieces, making screen printing more accessible for small runs. For single pieces or smaller quantities, methods like DTG or heat transfer may be more suitable.


Tip: If you’re working with smaller quantities but want to use screen printing, opt for simple, single-color designs to keep costs down.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Screen Printing Order?

The time required for screen printing depends on the complexity of the design, the quantity of the order, and the provider’s production capacity. Typically:

 

  • Standard Orders: Most screen printing orders take 5–7 business days.
  • Rush Orders: Providers like Yes We Print offer rush printing or expedited services, ensuring even tight deadlines can be met without compromising quality.


Tip: Communicate your timeline early to avoid delays, especially during busy periods.

Are There Environmentally Friendly Options for Screen Printing?

Yes, screen printing can be made environmentally friendly by choosing:

 

  • Eco-Friendly Inks: Water-based inks or plastisol inks with reduced environmental impact.
  • Sustainable Garments: Printing on organic cotton, recycled polyester, or other eco-friendly fabrics.
  • Efficient Production: Partnering with providers like Yes We Print, which optimize production to minimize waste.


While traditional screen printing can involve chemicals and waste, many modern printers are adopting greener practices to reduce their environmental footprint.

What Factors Affect the Durability of Screen-Printed Designs?

Several factors influence how long a screen-printed design lasts:

 

  • Ink Quality: High-quality inks ensure vibrant, long-lasting prints that resist fading and cracking.
  • Curing Process: Proper curing (heat-setting the ink) is crucial for durability. Inadequate curing can result in peeling or premature wear.
  • Fabric Type: Smooth, high-quality fabrics provide a better surface for ink adherence compared to textured or low-quality materials.
  • Care Instructions: Following care guidelines, such as washing inside out with cold water and avoiding high heat when drying, helps preserve the design’s vibrancy.


Yes We Print ensures durability by using premium inks, precise curing methods, and expert craftsmanship, delivering screen-printed apparel that stands the test of time.

Get Started with Yes We Print Today!

Ready to bring your designs to life with vibrant, durable screen printing? Whether you’re planning a small project or a large-scale order, Yes We Print is your trusted partner for high-quality, hassle-free printing services.

 

Here’s why thousands of customers choose Yes We Print:

 

  • Transparent Pricing: No setup fees, no design charges, and no hidden costs—just clear, honest pricing.
  • Lightning-Fast Quotes: Get your personalized quote in as little as 5–7 minutes, thanks to their human-powered, responsive service.
  • Unmatched Quality: From bold single-color prints to intricate multi-color designs, every project is handled with precision and care.
  • Free Delivery: Save even more with free shipping on all orders, ensuring your project stays within budget.
  • Flexible Turnaround Options: Need your items fast? Yes We Print offers same-day printing for those last-minute deadlines.

Don’t let hidden fees or delayed timelines hold you back—experience screen printing that’s simple, fast, and affordable.

 

Your Next Step


Click the link below to request your quote now and see how Yes We Print can help you create custom apparel that exceeds expectations:


👉 Request Your Quote Today!


With Yes We Print, your vision becomes reality in record time and with unbeatable quality. Don’t wait—start your screen printing journey today!

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