MY ADVENTURES IN SCREEN PRINTING: ART TO T-SHIRTS + SWEATSHIRTS

Michel Van Devender Custom Sweatshirts Screen Printed from Artwork

If you follow me, you already know I love painting directly onto garments—especially denim. There’s something special about wearable art that carries the mark of the hand. You can check out my custom-painted denim here.

But as much as I love painting by hand, there are limitations—especially if you want to scale your offerings and inventory. Think: one woman, a pair of jeans, and a paintbrush. So lately, I’ve been exploring other ways to create wearable art with my designs, and screen printing was top of my list. I’m also intrigued by the idea of screen printing art onto paper. Much more to come on that, but for now, it’s all about the garments.

A Day at Studio Print Shop

So when the guys over at Studio Print Shop, a local boutique screen printing company in Concord, NC (just outside of Charlotte), heard I was interested in putting some of my artwork to screens, they invited me to come play in their studio. I quite literally jumped at the chance—and may have done a little happy dance.

They graciously gave me a crash course in Screen Printing 101 and put me to work with the screens and press. I’m all about a good creative process—and what a process it is! I thought they might offer me a job on the spot… sigh… they did not.

As you can see from the images, we took my pencil-sketched girl and printed her onto some t-shirts and sweatshirts. We went light with the ink so she’d keep that delicate, sketched look. I absolutely love how she turned out—each one a little different, perfectly imperfect.

Small Batch, Big Love

We printed a small run but will be going back to press shortly since I already have orders in the queue. I’m also dreaming of printing white ink on black next time. If you’re interested in getting in on the next round, reach out—these tend to go fast.

I can’t thank the sweet crew at Studio Print Shop enough for letting me hang out for a fun, creative morning. You’re the best! I’m adding screen printing to my skill set too, so if you’ll have me back, I’m ready for Collaboration 2.0. I already have a slew of custom designs waiting their turn.

Speak It Into Existence

It just goes to show—when you put something out there, speak it into existence, and the right people hear you, good things happen. I call it serendipity.

Until next time…

✖︎ ✖︎

P.S.
If you live in the greater Charlotte or Concord area and want to see your creations or brand come to life, these are the guys for you. Reach out to Rodney at Studio Print Shop and give them a follow on Instagram here.