Transparent Pricing for Silk Screen Printing - Silk Screen Cost Overview
- hensleymolly
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
Hey there! If you’re diving into the world of custom apparel or merchandise, you’ve probably wondered: How much does silk screen printing really cost? We're here to break it down for you with clear, friendly info that makes pricing simple and transparent. No confusing jargon, no hidden fees—just the facts you need to make smart choices for your next project!
Let’s get started and explore the ins and outs of silk screen printing costs so you can plan your budget with confidence.
Understanding Silk Screen Cost Overview
Silk screen printing is a fantastic way to create vibrant, durable designs on t-shirts, hoodies, bags, and more. But the cost? It depends on a few key factors. Here’s what you need to know:
Setup Fees: This is the initial cost to create the screens for your design. Each color in your design requires a separate screen, so more colors mean higher setup fees.
Quantity: The more items you order, the lower the cost per piece. This is because setup fees get spread out over a larger batch.
Ink Colors: Simple one or two-color designs are cheaper than full-color or complex prints.
Garment Type: Different fabrics and styles can affect the price. For example, printing on a thick hoodie might cost more than a basic cotton tee.
Print Location: Front, back, sleeves, or all-over prints can change the price.
Here’s a quick example: If you want 50 t-shirts with a two-color design printed on the front, you’ll pay a setup fee for two screens plus the cost per shirt. But if you order 200 shirts, that setup fee gets divided among more items, lowering your overall cost per shirt.

What Affects Your Silk Screen Printing Price?
Let’s dig deeper into the main factors that influence your final bill. Knowing these will help you make smart decisions and avoid surprises!
1. Number of Colors in Your Design
Each color needs its own screen. So, a one-color print is the most budget-friendly. Adding colors means more screens, more setup time, and higher costs. If you want to keep costs down, try limiting your design to two or three colors.
Pro tip - to keep things more affordable, consider a lighter colored shirt or hoodie with darker ink as this is only one color. White or lighter ink on darker apparel requires two colors because you need a base color of white underneath.
2. Order Size
Bulk orders are your best friend! The setup fee stays the same whether you order 50 or 500 shirts, so ordering more lowers the price per item. If you’re planning an event or a band tour, ordering in bulk can save you a lot.
3. Type of Garment
Printing on standard cotton tees is usually cheaper than specialty fabrics like moisture-wicking or heavyweight hoodies. Also, some colors of garments might require extra ink layers to make the design pop, which can add to the cost.
4. Print Placement and Size
A small logo on the chest costs less than a full front-and-back print. Sleeve prints or pocket prints might add a little extra, but they’re usually less expensive than large designs.
How to Get the Best Value for Your Money
We know you want great quality without breaking the bank. Here are some tips to get the most bang for your buck:
Simplify Your Design: Fewer colors = lower setup fees.
Order in Bulk: The more you order, the cheaper each piece becomes.
Choose Standard Garments: Basic cotton tees are budget-friendly and print beautifully.
Plan Your Print Placement: Stick to one or two print areas to keep costs down.\
By following these tips, you’ll get high-quality custom apparel that looks fantastic and fits your budget perfectly!

Why Transparent Pricing Matters for Your Project
When you’re investing in custom apparel, you want to know exactly what you’re paying for. Transparent pricing means no surprises, no hidden fees, and clear communication every step of the way.
At Sunset Vibes Graphics, we believe in honesty and clarity. We break down every cost so you understand what you’re paying for—from setup fees to garment costs to printing charges. This way, you can make informed decisions and feel confident about your order.
Plus, transparent pricing helps you:
Budget Accurately: Know your total cost upfront.
Compare Quotes Easily: See what different printers include in their prices.
Avoid Hidden Fees: No last-minute charges or unexpected costs.
Build Trust: Work with a partner who values honesty and quality.
If you want to learn more about silk screen pricing, reach out to us for a quote at sunsetvibesgraphics@gmail.com. We’re here to help you every step of the way!
Quick Tips for a Smooth Silk Screen Printing Experience
Ready to get started? Here are some quick tips to make your silk screen printing project a breeze:
Prepare Your Artwork: Use high-resolution files and simple designs for the best results.
Choose Your Garments Early: Pick styles and colors that fit your brand and budget.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask your printer about costs, timelines, and options.
Plan Ahead: Give yourself plenty of time for production and delivery.
Request Proofs: See how your design will look on the product you choose before moving forward.
Following these steps will help you avoid headaches and get exactly what you want!
Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life?
Custom silk screen printing is an awesome way to showcase your brand, band, or event with style and personality. And with transparent pricing, you can plan your project confidently and get the best value.
At Sunset Vibes Graphics, we’re proud to be your trusted local partner in Longmont, Colorado. We deliver handmade, high-quality apparel with quick turnaround times and friendly service. Whether you need 20 shirts or 200, we’ve got you covered!
Let’s make your next project amazing—reach out today and let’s chat about your ideas and budget!
Thanks for stopping by! I hope this guide helped you understand silk screen printing costs better. Remember, clear pricing means no surprises and a great final product you’ll love!




Comments