Top 5 Things to Think About Before Placing a Screen Printing Order
If you’re thinking about placing your first screen printing order (or even your fiftieth), here are 5 key things to keep in mind to make the process smooth, cost-effective, and successful.
1. Quantity Matters
Screen printing works best when you’re ordering at least 24 pieces. That’s because the setup process involves creating screens for each color in your design—and once they’re made, it’s much more efficient to print in bulk. The more items you order, the lower your cost per piece. If you’re printing for a team, event, or store, ordering a few extras can actually save you money in the long run.
2. Your Design File Should Be Print-Ready
Clean artwork = clean prints. We recommend vector files (.AI, .EPS, .PDF) or high-res images (300 DPI). If you’re not sure your file is ready, don’t worry—we can help you get it there. We’ve helped hundreds of Portland customers prep their designs for the best possible print quality.
3. Garment Type Affects Price and Feel
Not all t-shirts are created equal. You’ll want to consider fabric type, fit, and style. A basic cotton tee is affordable and versatile, while a tri-blend or organic cotton shirt offers a softer, more premium feel. Hoodies, totes, and tanks each come with different price points and print considerations. We’ll help you find the right garment for your goals and budget—without overwhelming you with options.
4. Color Impacts Cost
Each color in your design requires a separate screen. So if you're trying to keep costs down, fewer colors are better. But don’t feel limited—we can help you tweak your design to balance impact and affordability. Pro tip: Light-colored shirts with dark ink tend to be more cost-effective and look sharp.
5. Turnaround Time Isn’t Instant—But It’s Worth It
We love a rush job challenge now and then, but in general, we ask for 15–20 business days for production. Planning ahead gives us time to order your garments, create your screens, and make sure your order is just right. Need a job sooner? Give us a call and we will definitely try to squeeze you into the schedule.
And remember—when you choose New Avenues INK, you’re not just getting quality screen printing in Portland. You’re supporting job training and employment for youth experiencing housing instability.
Every shirt we print helps fund that mission.
Ready to Print With Purpose?
Have a design idea? Need help deciding on styles or colors? We’ve got you. We’re here to make the process easy, collaborative, and impactful.
Let’s bring your idea to life—and help build a stronger community while we’re at it.
