History of Screen Printing

History of Screen Printing

The history of Screen printing began when a form of stenciling appeared in China during the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD) It was later adapted by Japan, and was improved by creating newer methods.

Screen Printing in Ancient China

Screen printing was introduced to Western Europe the late 18th century, but it did not gain large acceptance in until silk mesh was more available for trade from the east and an easier and profitable mean for the medium discovered.

Screen Printing in the early 1900's

An American Michael Vasilantone started to use and develop rotary multi color garment screen printing machine in 1960. He later filed a patent for his invention. In 1967 he was granted the patent and on February 18, 1969, the original rotary machine was manufactured.
It was initially used to print logos and team information on bowling garments but soon directed to printing on T-shirts. The Vasilantone patent was licensed by multiple manufacturers, the resulting production and boom in printed T-shirts made the rotary garment screen printing machine the most popular device for screen printing in the industry.
Screen printing on garments currently accounts for over half of the screen printing activity in the United States. He had a profound affect on the history of screen printing.