Basic t-shirts have a time and a place. 

But if you want to really make a statement, or show off your brand in the best light possible, it’s time to step up your apparel game. That’s where specialty screen printing comes in.


Specialty screen printing is perfect for adding unique elements to your shirts, such as:

  • Foil
  • Liquid gold and silver inks
  • Glow in the dark inks
  • Puff
  • Reflective
  • Burnout

Your brand should reflect who you are, what you do, and the value you provide to your customers.

With specialty screen printing techniques, you can make a fantastic first impression on potential customers. This is especially important for brands that rely on word-of-mouth marketing and customer loyalty. If your shirts aren’t up to par, it reflects poorly on your brand as a whole.

On the other hand, if you have retail-soft, eye-catching shirts, it demonstrates that you’re willing to invest in your brand—and that you care about your customers’ experience.

Investing in your custom apparel is a small price to pay for the long-term benefits it provides. Not only will your shirts look amazing, but you’ll also make your brand more memorable.

When it comes to custom t-shirts, don’t settle for anything less than the best. Work with a screen printing partner that will take your apparel to the next level.


Why specialty screen printing is worth investing in

Maybe you’re looking to add some extra pizzazz to your company shirts, or perhaps you want to design a shirt that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Either way, specialty screen printing can help you achieve your goals.

Specialty screen printing will add unique details to your shirts, and it can also make them more durable. If you’re printing shirts that will be worn often or need to stand up to tough conditions, specialty inks can help you get the job done.

Your investment in specialty screen printing will pay off when you see how much attention and respect your shirts get. Think of it as giving a little extra love to your custom apparel project.


Your options for specialty screen printing

Here’s what you can expect from each printing process:

foil printing

Foil Printing

This printing process uses a thin sheet of metallic foil that is applied to the shirt with heat and pressure. Foil printing can add a bit of extra weight to the shirt, but the results are definitely worth it. This effect will help you achieve a premium look for your custom apparel.


liquid gold and silver ink

Liquid Gold and Silver Inks

These inks are perfect for adding a bit of luxury to your shirts. These inks can add to the cost per unit for your shirts. However, when you see the finished product, you’ll realize that your investment was worthwhile.


glow in the dark ink

Glow in the Dark Inks

If you couldn’t guess, these inks will glow in the dark. They’re perfect for shirts that you want to stand out at night or in a dimly lit room.


puff printing

Puff Printing

This printing process uses an additional layer of fabric that is applied to the shirt with heat and pressure. The finished design has a raised, 3D effect that is sure to turn heads.


reflective printing

Reflective Printing

Reflective printing uses special inks that reflect light. This process is perfect for safety apparel or for shirts that you want to be easily seen in low lighting conditions.


burnout printing

Burnout Printing

This printing process uses a chemical burnout solution to remove the top layer of fabric from the shirt. The finished product will have a vintage, distressed look that is ideal for trendy brands.


What to keep in mind when choosing a specialty screen printing partner

Specialty screen printing is… well, special. When you’re choosing a partner to help you with your printing needs, you’ll want to make sure that they’re up for the task.

Here are a few factors to consider when you’re choosing a specialty screen printing partner:

1. Choose a partner with experience.

You don’t want to end up with a bunch of unusable shirts. Choose a partner who has plenty of experience with specialty screen printing.

2. Make sure they have the right equipment.

Specialty screen printing requires specific types of equipment. Make sure your chosen partner has everything they need to get the job done right.

3. Order samples to test the quality of the apparel.

Any legit screen printing partner will be able to sell you samples of their work. This will give you a good idea of what to expect from them and help you make sure that they’re the right fit for your needs. You can shop our samples here.

4. Be aware of turnaround times.

Keep in mind that turnaround times for specialty screen printing can be longer than traditional screen printing. Make sure to plan ahead and allow plenty of time for your shirts to be printed.

5. Get a quote.

Prices for specialty screen printing can vary depending on the design, the number of shirts, and the printing process. Be sure to get a quote from your chosen partner before you commit to anything.


Get the most out of your custom t-shirts with Scrappy Apparel.

Scrappy Apparel is your one-stop shop for all things screen printing. We have the experience, the equipment, and the know-how to produce apparel that will “WOW” your customers, employees, family, friends… basically everyone you know.

We also offer sublimation printing, embroidery, and the best custom hat program in the world. 

We’ll manufacture the softest damn apparel you’ve ever worn, but that’s not all—we’ll do it quickly, affordably, and with the utmost attention to detail. Quality is our number one priority, and we guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

Better yet, we’re true partners for our clients. In addition to manufacturing custom apparel, we can advise you on how to grow your brand. We’ll help you make the most of your investment and take your business to the next level.

If you’re looking for custom apparel that speaks for itself, look no further than Scrappy Apparel. Ready to level up?

Grab Your Free Quote