The Difference in Screen Printing and Digital Printing
Screen printing and digital printing are two different imaging methods that yield very similar results. Screen printing uses a stencil method and specialized inks to print images onto garments, vinyl, or other materials. It provides a highly durable image and is very economical for large runs.
Digital printing uses state of the art technology to print images directly to the material. Digital printing provides excellent image durability. This process is perfect for small orders requiring vibrant full color photographic images.
The advantage of using a digital printer would be that several colors can be printed at once and does not need any setup work to be done. Even though a small quantity of digital prints can be inexpensive, larger quantity runs will be more expensive as compared to screen printing.
Screen printing, also called silk screen printing, entails making a design stencil (or screen) and imprinting different colored inks onto the surface of the material. Each color requires a separate screen.
The imprinting of sportswear usually demands the screen printing methods. The advantages are bright, durable colors even on dark garments; wear resistance is excellent.
Regarding commercial screen printing, two advantages of the process are the ability to print on 3-dimensional objects, and the excellent outdoor durability of the print.