How to Screenprint Smooth Color Gradients

Gradients are everywhere right now—and for good reason. They add depth, movement, and visual interest to even the simplest prints. But there’s one thing that makes or breaks the effect: the transition.

In this quick guide, I’ll show you the one trick that turns a harsh color line into a smooth gradient.

Step-by-Step: How to Blend Colors in Screenprinting

1. Set Up Your Screen
Make sure there’s enough space on your screen to mix the colors outside the print area. You don’t want the blending process to happen directly over your design.

2. Use a Wide Squeegee
Your squeegee should cover the full height of your design in one smooth pass.

3. Add Your Colors with a Slight Overlap
Add the two colors next to each other on the screen with a slight overlap where you want the transition to happen.

4. Test First (Optional but Smart)
Place a test fabric or sheet of paper beneath your screen. Keep the screen firmly in place to prevent smudging.

5. Blend Before You Print
Using your squeegee, gently move back and forth within the color area—side to side, not over the print zone—until the overlapping area looks well-blended.

The picture shows how on the left of the design the colors have been mixed:

6. Flood the Screen
Once the blend looks smooth, flood your screen like you normally would.

7. Print!
Print onto your test fabric first. If the transition looks good, go ahead and print the final piece.

Bonus Tips

1. This technique works well for abstract designs, lettering, and stencils with wide fills.
2. Use colors that blend well (e.g., blue and pink for a smooth purple gradient).
3. Adjust your pressure gently—too much movement may overmix or bleed.

Have questions or want to share your result? Message me or tag @nucaneca.studio on Instagram—I’d love to see it.