Nestled in Melbourne’s vibrant west, High Tee Screen Printing Co. isn’t just a print shop; it’s a fusion of creativity, craftsmanship, and camaraderie. Founded by longtime friends Mick and Olie, High Tee is more than a business—it’s a shared dream built on decades of friendship, skill, and a love for artistic expression. Specializing in everything from local projects to high-profile international collaborations, Mick and Olie have transformed their passion for screen printing into a hub for innovative design and community connection. In this edition of “Behind the Mesh,” get to know the personalities and philosophies driving High Tee’s success and learn about the trends, projects, and ambitions that shape their vision.
P.S. Their shop has a rad skate ramp too!
Keep up to date with High Tee Screen Printing Co.
Instagram: @highteescreenprinting
Website: https://www.highteescreenprinting.com.au/
Email: info@highteescreenprinting.com.au
About Mick & Olie
List 3 things about yourself – fun facts, hobbies, pets or interests
- We both grew up in the same hometown of Macedon and have been mates for 30+ years
- The Collingwood Football Club!
- We recorded a hip hop tune as teenagers that is yet to be released, maybe one day 😂
Describe your screen printing journey. How and when did you get started and what has been your biggest learning experience?
We both began our apprenticeships at the same workplace back in the 2000’s and had always talked about going in to business together and eventually did. High Tee started in 2015 and is a reflection of our friendship over the years, we now have a great crew around us and although we work hard when needed nobody takes themselves to seriously around here and we like to have a good time whilst doing it.
Tell us about your proudest screen printing project. What made it special and what did you learn from it?
Printing for local musicians and brands has always been the vision. This would eventually lead to printing for some International touring artists and labels including the likes of Solange Knowles, Tyler the Creator, Matty Matheson and Jordan Brand to mention a few. Any jobs which align with our personal interests are the jobs we most enjoy printing.
Industry
What are your thoughts on the current trends in screen printing? Do you see any emerging styles or techniques that excite you?
I don’t think you can beat a quality simulated process print if separated correctly, our remote art team GraphX Source nail it every time!
What role does the online community play in your screen printing practice? How do you connect with other printers and share knowledge?
Connecting with other printers has been massive for us especially here in Melbourne, the old school method of gatekeeping seems to have disappeared with a new breed of younger screen printers which can only be a good thing for our industry. Social media has definitely broken down barriers and podcasts like the ‘Shirt Show’ are not only great in connecting with other printers but also knowing that these people are also faced with the same difficulties of running a shop day to day.
Shop Floor
What your most treasured product or piece of equipment on the floor that has made your life easier as a printer? Why?
Does the Skate ramp count? Haha if not definitely both the M&R Automatic presses for obvious reasons and the M&R Starlight exposure unit, its reduced exposure times dramatically and made the screen room a lot more efficient.
What is on your wish list for your shop floor this year?
The Chromaline Laser to Screen! Maybe not in the budget this year but we have been eyeing it off for a while! We might need to fly to ISS Long Beach to check it out 😉
Advice
What advice would you give to aspiring screen printers? What are the essential skills and qualities for success in this field?
Try and gain experience at another shop before diving into your own business, we are both trade qualified screen printers and feel like it has held us in good stead. Screen printing can be frustrating at times and consists of a lot of problem solving so learning from your mistakes is imperative. You have to crack a few eggs to make an omelette!
Bonus
What’s your go-to playlist for a productive printing session?
Hip Hop, Nu Metal, Electronic and even Country are on heavy rotation around the shop but we are most productive when the NBA and NFL are on the TV’s 😂
Conclusion
As Mick and Olie look toward the future of High Tee Screen Printing Co., they continue to prioritize quality, community, and creativity. With a deep respect for the screen printing craft and an eye on emerging technologies, their goal is to keep refining their practice and expanding their horizons. Whether they’re dreaming about the latest equipment or jamming out to hip hop on the shop floor, Mick and Olie’s journey is as authentic as it gets. High Tee Screen Printing isn’t just a place for prints—it’s a place where passion meets precision (and skateboarding), where every design tells a story, and where each project is a testament to their dedication and vision.
Written by the Jones Brothers Printechnology Team in collaboration with High Tee Screen Printing Co. – Mick & Olie
