Monk Vector Works

Screen Printing

Spot Color vs Simulated Process: How to Choose

By Monk Vector Works Team · April 2, 2026 · 7 min

Spot color is faster, cheaper and easier to register — when the artwork has flat, brand-defined colors. Simulated process shines when you need photographic or gradient art on dark garments.

The right choice is a function of art, garment color, run length and shop capability. We default to spot when possible, sim process when necessary.

Need this fixed on your file?

A senior production artist will review your artwork free and tell you exactly what it needs to ship.

Get a Free Artwork Review Request a Quote

Related articles

Screen Printing

How to Prepare Artwork for Screen Printing

Screen printing is unforgiving when it comes to bad artwork. Here's the production artist's guide to getting your files press-ready — color separation, vector builds, halftones, and everything in between.

Screen Printing

Screen Printing Artwork Requirements Explained

What does a screen printer actually need from your artwork files? This breakdown covers every technical requirement — from file format to color count — so your job runs without a hitch.

Production-ready in 24 hours

Need a file fixed before your next press run?

Send us your artwork. A senior artist will review it free and tell you exactly what it needs.

Get a Free Artwork Review Request a Quote