Discharge Screen Printing
Discharge screen printing is a great printing technique if you want to produce a softer feel screen print. The discharge printing process is achieved by adding a bleaching agent into the ink which bleaches out the colour of the T-Shirt. This essentially eliminates the need for a white layer or a flash layer of ink. The same process applies whereby screens need to be created for each different colour that is in the design which is to be printed and the drying process is also the same as standard screen printing.
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Uses for Discharge Screen Printing
Given that the bleaching process does not produce a perfect white base, discharge screen printing is a great option for fashion clients where Pantone colour matching is not a necessity.
This printing technique works best on 100% cotton products that do not have much red ink in them as the red can make it more challenging to get a “whiter” base for the print.
Please Note
Printed garments are more sensitive and need extra attention when it comes to washing.
Discharge Printing vs Screen Printing
The main difference lies in how the ink interacts with the fabric. Traditional screen printing applies ink on top of the garment, which can sometimes result in a heavier feel especially with bold, opaque colours. In contrast, Discharge Screen Printing uses a discharge agent screen printing formula that removes the shirt’s original dye and replaces it with a new pigment. This results in a super-soft, breathable finish where the design feels like part of the fabric itself.
Discharge ink screen printing is especially effective on dark, 100% cotton garments and is ideal for achieving a vintage, worn-in look. If you're asking what is discharge screen printing or what is discharge ink screen printing, it’s a technique that uses discharge inks silk screen printing methods combined with a discharge paste for screen printing to lift the dye from the fabric. The final result is a discharge t shirt with sharp detail, vibrant colour, and a smooth hand-feel; perfect for fashion labels and premium merchandise that require both comfort and visual impact.
Additional Screen Printing Techniques
At Garment Printing, we’re passionate about offering a wide range of screen printing options to help your designs truly stand out. Whether you're aiming for high detail, a vintage vibe, or something that feels premium to the touch, our specialist methods give you the flexibility to customise your garments exactly how you envision them.
More Printing Techniques
Looking for something different? We offer a wide array of specialist printing options to bring your ideas to life. Whether you're aiming for high-impact visuals, subtle detailing, or a unique texture, our advanced techniques ensure your garments make a lasting impression. Ideal for brands, events, and individuals who want to stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is discharge in screen printing?
Discharge screen printing is a technique that removes the dye from the fabric and replaces it with pigment ink, creating a super-soft, breathable print. It’s particularly effective on dark, 100% cotton garments and is great for achieving a vintage or worn-in look.
Q: What is the discharge method of printing?
The discharge method involves using a special ink mixed with a discharge agent that bleaches the garment’s original dye while depositing new pigment in its place. This allows for vibrant colours with a softer feel, making the design feel like part of the fabric rather than sitting on top of it.
Q: What are the disadvantages of discharge printing?
Discharge printing is not ideal for all fabrics - it's most effective on dark-coloured, 100% cotton garments. It may not achieve pure whites or exact Pantone matches and can be less consistent on garments with red dyes or blends. Additionally, garments require careful washing to preserve the print’s integrity.
Q: Is discharge printing more expensive?
Discharge printing can be slightly more expensive than traditional screen printing due to the specialised inks and processes involved. However, the result is a premium, soft-touch print that’s ideal for fashion-forward brands and high-end merchandise.