How to Start a Screen Printing Business in 7 Steps
So, you want to start a screen printing business. You've got the passion, the drive, and (most importantly) the fashion sense. But where do you start? Don't worry, we're here to help. In this blog post, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to get your local print shop up and running, from finding the right equipment to marketing your shirts to the world. Let's get started!
1. Find the Right Equipment
The first step in starting any business is finding the right equipment. When it comes to screen printing, you'll need a few key pieces of equipment to get started, including:
- A screen printing press
- Exposure unit
- Darkroom
- Screens
- Emulsion
- Squeegee
- Ink
You can find all of this equipment at your local screen printing supply store, or you can order it online from a variety of different retailers. Once you have all of your equipment, it's time to set up shop!
2. Choose a Location for Your Shop
The next step is finding the perfect location for your new screen printing business. Ideally, you'll want to choose a space that's large enough to accommodate all of your equipment and has good lighting. You'll also want to make sure the space is easily accessible for customers who want to drop off orders or pick up their shirts in person. Once you've found the perfect location, it's time to start setting up!
3. Set Up Your Screen Printing Press
The first thing you'll need to do is set up your screen printing press. This process will vary depending on the type of press you have, so be sure to consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. Once your press is set up, it's time to start loading screens!
4. Load Your Screens
Once your press is set up, it's time to start loading screens. To do this, simply place your screen on top of the press and secure it in place with clamps. Once your screen is secure, you're ready to start printing!
5. Print Your Shirts
Now for the fun part: actually printing shirts! To do this, simply load your shirt onto the press, aligning it under the screen. Then, use your squeegee to apply ink evenly across the screen. Finally, pull the trigger on the press and watch as your shirt comes out looking amazing! Repeat this process until all of your shirts are printed.
6. Cure Your Shirts
Now that your shirts are printed, they need to be cured so that the ink will set and won't wash away when laundered. To cure shirts, simply place them in an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes or use a heat press if you have one available. Once your shirts are cured, they're ready to be worn!
7. Market Your Shirts
The final step in starting your screen printing business is marketing your shirts to the world! There are a number of ways you can do this, including setting up an online store or selling at local craft fairs and markets. You can also reach out to local businesses and organizations who may be interested in ordering custom shirts from you.
Whatever marketing strategy you choose, make sure you get creative and have fun with it! After all, marketing should be an extension of your creativity! These are just a few tips on how you can market your shirts.
Wrap Up!
So there you have it: everything you need to know to start y our very own screen printing business! Just remember to take things one step at a time, do your research, and most importantly, have fun with it! We wish you all the best of luck in your new venture!