The Essential Guide to Screen Printing Supplies: What Every Print Shop Needs
Whether you’re just starting out in screen printing or you’ve been reclaiming screens and pulling squeegees for decades, one thing is constant: quality supplies make all the difference. The right tools don’t just help you print better—they help you print smarter, faster, and more profitably.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential screen printing supplies you need to run a successful operation, from screens and inks to chemicals and coating tools. Whether you're a studio artist, a student, or a commercial print shop, this overview will help you stay stocked with confidence.
🖼️ 1. Screen Printing Frames & Mesh
Your screens are the backbone of your print. Choosing the right mesh count and frame size depends on what you’re printing.
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Aluminum Frames – Durable, lightweight, and won’t warp.
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110–160: Great for general use and basic spot colors.
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200–230: Ideal for detailed prints and halftones.
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300+: Best for water-based inks and ultra-fine detail.
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Pro Tip: Want to save money? Consider restretching your screens. It’s eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and ensures consistent tension over time.
🎨 2. Screen Printing Inks
From bold colors to soft hand feel, your ink selection shapes the quality of your final print.
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Plastisol Inks – Durable and vibrant. Our Victory Bio Ink offers a low-temp cure, eco-friendly alternative to traditional PVC plastisols.
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Water-Based Inks – Softer finish and breathable prints. Try our Victory Bio Water-Based Ink for a smooth application and fast drying.
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Specialty Inks – Puff, glitter, metallic, and discharge inks let you get creative.
Buy smart: We offer free shipping on ink orders over $300.
🧪 3. Chemicals & Emulsions
Every screen printer knows the value of good reclaiming and coating chemistry.
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Emulsions – Choose the right one for your exposure system and ink type (plastisol vs. water-based).
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Emulsion Remover – For fast reclaiming without damaging your mesh.
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Degreasers & Haze Removers – Keep your screens clean and ghost-image free.
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Adhesives – For securing garments during printing.
Eco-conscious printers love our line of safer, biodegradable options.
🖌️ 4. Squeegees & Coaters
Pressure, angle, and sharpness of your squeegee blade make a noticeable impact.
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Squeegees – Available in different durometers for various effects.
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Scoop Coaters – Ensures even emulsion application—crucial for clean exposures.
🔆 5. Exposure & Drying Tools
A good exposure setup saves you time and frustration.
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Exposure Units – From basic UV bulbs to vacuum exposure units.
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Drying Racks & Fans – Accelerate screen and garment drying without dust contamination.
🧰 6. Accessories You Didn’t Know You Needed
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Tape & Blockout Pens – Quick fixes for pinholes and leaks.
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Spatulas – For smooth ink handling.
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Scrub Pads – Essential for reclaiming stations.
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Test Pellons & Print Pads – Practice makes perfect.
Why Buy From Victory Screen Factory?
With over 40 years in the industry, we’ve been helping artists, schools, and screen printers get the most from their craft. We offer:
✅ Expert customer support
✅ Competitive pricing
✅ Eco-friendly ink innovations
✅ Fast shipping with FedEx and UPS
✅ Trusted by print shops across the U.S.
Looking to upgrade your shop?
Let’s talk about custom solutions, bulk discounts, and how our team can help you succeed.
Final Thoughts
Screen printing is both an art and a science. When you have the right tools, the right inks, and the right team behind you, you’re not just printing—you’re creating. Whether you’re printing tees, posters, or fine art, stock up with confidence and print like a pro.
📦 Ready to restock?
Visit Victory Screen Factory and discover screen printing supplies made for real printers.
