Heat press printing uses heat to physically transfer the ink or dye, as well as a paper-like substance, to the surface being printed on. This paper is then removed, leaving the print. If you have ever made a T-shirt at home with an iron-on transfer and your iron, than you have used a heat press. Of course, commercial heat presses are much different and create a more seamless and longer-lasting image. Heat presses come in three basic types: swing away, draw and clam shell.
Screen-printing can be compared to lithography. There are three main pieces needed to screen-print: the screen, or the copy of the image, the squeegee and the ink. The screen is placed on the object and the squeegee is used to add the ink to the surface, through the screen. The ink only goes through in the areas the screen has not been treated, forming the image.
Screen-printing is possibly the most versatile way to print that is available to the average person. With proper screen-printing tools, you can easily print on paper, plastic, fabric and even metals and glass. Because of its versatility, this printing technique is common, which means that you'll have no trouble finding materials for your projects. Screen-printing also requires no harsh chemicals, heat or electricity, which makes it more affordable than other processes.
Heat press machines are a good investment for a business. With a heat press you don't have to worry about any ink seeping through on your shirts, invitations or canvas tote bags; the machines are precise and the image is long-lasting. For precise mass production, heat pressing is the best way to go. In fact, many companies that people believe use screen-printing actually use heat presses.
If you are on a budget and looking to create a business printing art or initials on T-shirts, screen-printing is the best way to begin, as heat press machines are quite expensive to purchase. Screen-printing is inexpensive, takes up little space and requires no major utility usage. You can even make a nice-looking, screen-printed shirt from home with household items and very little else; simply look online for tips on screen-printing at home or on a budget.