How Moiré Occurs in Garment Printing
Halftone vs Screen Mesh Conflict
When printing detailed images or gradients, artwork is often converted into halftone dots. These dots must pass through a mesh screen during printing.
If the angle or frequency of the halftone pattern aligns too closely with the screen mesh pattern, visual interference occurs. The overlapping grids create a new, unintended pattern — this is moiré.
Digital Image Scaling
Moiré can also appear when low-resolution images are resized improperly. Pixel grids may interfere with print patterns, especially on fine mesh fabrics.
Fabric Texture Interaction
Certain fabrics, such as tightly woven polyester or fine mesh materials, can create visual interference when combined with detailed print patterns.
Why Moiré Is a Problem
Distorted Artwork
Moiré can disrupt smooth gradients and photographic prints, making designs appear unprofessional.
Reduced Print Clarity
Fine detail may become blurred or warped due to the interference pattern.
Brand Impact
For corporate uniforms, promotional apparel, and retail merchandise, visible moiré reduces perceived quality.
Preventing moiré ensures clean, professional results aligned with brand standards.
Preventing Moiré in Screen Printing
Adjusting Halftone Angle
Professional printers adjust the halftone angle to avoid alignment with the screen mesh. Common angles are selected to minimise interference.
Selecting Proper Mesh Count
Choosing the correct screen mesh count for the artwork detail level reduces pattern conflict.
Increasing Artwork Resolution
High-resolution files reduce pixel-based interference and ensure smoother halftone conversion.
Testing Before Production
Sample prints allow printers to identify potential moiré before full production begins.
Moiré in Digital Printing
While less common in DTG or DTF printing compared to screen printing, moiré can still appear if artwork contains pre-existing patterned images, such as scanned photographs or printed textures.
Proper artwork preparation and file optimisation reduce this risk.
Common Situations Where Moiré Occurs
Moiré is most likely to appear in:
- Halftone screen printing
- Photographic T-shirt designs
- Detailed gradient prints
- Fine mesh performance garments
- Reproductions of previously printed materials
It is less common in solid-colour logo printing without halftone detail.
Practical Considerations for Australian Businesses
Provide High-Quality Artwork
Submitting high-resolution vector or raster files helps reduce interference risks.
Trust Pre-Press Expertise
Professional printers perform halftone separation and screen setup adjustments to prevent issues.
Avoid Scanned Images
Using original digital files rather than scanned or photographed artwork reduces pattern overlap.
Consider Fabric Choice
Smooth cotton fabrics generally produce fewer interference risks than highly textured or patterned materials.
Moiré vs Intentional Patterning
It is important to distinguish moiré from intentional design elements. Moiré is an unintended distortion, whereas deliberate pattern effects are controlled and predictable.
Quality control ensures the final garment reflects the intended artwork without distortion.
Moiré in Professional Garment Printing
Moiré is a technical printing challenge that can affect detailed designs if not managed properly. Through careful artwork preparation, correct mesh selection, and professional production processes, it can be effectively prevented.
For Australian businesses investing in custom apparel, understanding moiré highlights the importance of working with experienced printers who prioritise precision and quality control. Proper management ensures sharp, clean prints that maintain brand integrity across every garment.
