Array of screen printing squeegees showcasing diverse ink colors used in the process

Why We Chose Screen Printing & What Makes Fur-You Special

Screen Printing Over Digital Printing

When I founded Fur-You, I made a deliberate choice to embrace traditional screen printing over digital methods. This decision stems from a commitment to sustainability, quality, and the art of craftsmanship. However, much of the conversation around printing methods focuses on digital as the superior option while overlooking advancements in screen printing technology. Here’s why screen printing aligns with our values and how modern innovations have addressed many of the concerns often raised about the process.

1. Environmental Considerations

Non-Toxic Inks & Eco-Friendly Practices

Many sources discussing screen printing highlight the historical use of harmful chemicals. However, screen printing has evolved significantly, and today, there are eco-friendly solutions for every stage of the process—from non-toxic, water-based inks to biodegradable emulsions and eco-conscious screen reclaiming methods. These advancements not only reduce environmental impact but also improve the safety of workers handling the materials.

E-Waste Management

Digital printing relies heavily on electronic equipment and ink cartridges, which, at the end of their life cycles, contribute to e-waste. Proper recycling facilities are essential to handle this waste responsibly. However, in regions like Australia, there is a notable scarcity of adequate e-waste recycling facilities, leading to environmental concerns.

Accumulation of used ink cartridges illustrating waste from digital printing.

Water Usage & Waste Management

A common argument against screen printing is water waste and contamination. However, this issue is largely dependent on the type of ink used and the waste management practices in place. Fur-You exclusively uses water-based inks, which significantly reduce harmful runoff compared to plastisol inks. Additionally, we implement responsible water filtration and waste disposal methods, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.

2. Durability & Print Quality

Screen printing is renowned for producing long-lasting, vibrant prints that withstand repeated washes without significant fading. This durability ensures that garments maintain their aesthetic appeal over time, reducing the need for frequent replacements. While DTG (Direct to Garment) printing is praised for its high-resolution detail, critics often claim screen printing lacks precision. However, this assumption often comes down to technique and materials. With the right mesh count, fine-line detail settings, ink selection, and gradient control, screen printing can achieve exceptional levels of detail, rivaling DTG’s precision.

Side-by-side comparison highlighting differences between digital and screen printing of identical design

3. Energy Consumption

While digital printing processes consume electricity, the energy usage varies depending on the scale and equipment. As a small-scale manual screen printer, our operations are designed to be energy-efficient, minimising electricity consumption and aligning with sustainable practices.

4. Waste Generation

Both screen and digital printing methods have associated waste. In digital printing, fabric wastage can occur due to the need for precise fabric feeding, leading to potential errors and misprints. Screen printing, especially when done manually, allows for greater control, potentially reducing material wastage.

5. Understanding Digital Printing Methods

It’s essential to differentiate between various digital printing techniques:

  • Direct to Garment (DTG): Applies ink directly onto fabric. While it offers detailed prints, the durability may not match that of screen printing.
  • Sublimation: Uses heat to transfer dye onto materials, primarily synthetic fabrics. This process involves chemical reactions and requires specific substrates.
  • Direct to Film (DTF): Prints designs onto a film, which are then transferred to fabric using heat. This method can result in a plastic-like layer on the garment, raising environmental concerns regarding biodegradability.

6. The Future of Printing at Fur-You

I don’t believe digital printing is inherently bad—it has come a long way over the past 20 years and continues to improve. In time, I may see the benefits of incorporating digital methods if they evolve further in sustainability and quality. However, for now, screen printing remains the best fit for Fur-You’s values due to its craftsmanship, durability, and evolving eco-friendly potential.

Artisan aligning screen printing frame for precise design placement on fabric.    Close-up of squeegee and artisan's thumb poised for screen printing application Artisan completing flooding technique in screen printing process.    Happy artisan engaged in screen printing process Completed hoodie panel print featuring one-color Charlie and the bird screen print design.

7. Artisanal Value & Craftsmanship

Screen printing is a hands-on process that embodies craftsmanship and artistry. Each piece is carefully crafted, reflecting the dedication and skill of the artisan. This personal touch ensures that every Fur-You product is unique, offering our customers a tangible connection to the creative process.

At Fur-You, our commitment to screen printing is rooted in a desire to provide high-quality, sustainable, and artistically crafted petwear. We believe that this approach not only delivers superior products but also aligns with our responsibility toward the environment and our community.

   Lala tilts her head toward the sky, standing against a backdrop of red autumn leaves that perfectly match the Bordeaux print on her Fur-You Logo Hoodie. A harmonious blend of nature, sustainability, and artistry in one frame      Charlie shows off the back view of Fur-You’s ‘Bend Don’t Break’ hoodie in glow pink on grey marle. The artistic print stands out against the fabric, perfectly suited for stylish pups           Bonnie gives a slight turn, offering a dynamic view of the Mandala Green Glow tee in dusty blue. The luminous hand-printed design stands out against the rich fabric, a reflection of Fur-You’s commitment to sustainability and artistry. A statement piece for pets who appreciate style and comfort.

Check out our hand-printed petwear collection to see our designs in action.

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