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Friday, March 27, 2009
Introduction
Screen printing can yield posters, art prints, stationary, clothes, accessories, and much more. You can learn to cost effectively screen print in your own home. Read this blog to find out how.
Step 1: Gather Supplies
1) Frame: Embroidery hoops work well for small to moderate sized images. Old picture frames may be more effective for large images.
2) Screen: Panty hose are the cheapest material and will work with patience. I recommend sheer curtain material. Make sure you select a color that pencils will show up on. Nude is a bad idea.
3) Water resistant glue: Modge podge will work. You may consider replacing this material with emulsion.
4) Pencil and paint brush.
5) Print out of image: It is very helpful if this image is black and white and high contrast. Photoshop can create this effect. Use a simple image your first time.
6) Ink or paint: Any ink or paint that is permanent will do. Speedball is recommended. Remember that every ink and paint is different and will print differently. Make sure you do a test print.
7) A squeegee: Anything that can push ink. Art store squeegees work well and so does strong cardboard. Cardboard from the back of a sketchbook is perfect.
8) Heat cure: Fancy machines will work, but so will irons. Read the back of your ink or paint to see what curing method is recommended.
9) Paper or material to print on: Make sure you have the right kind of ink or paint for your material.
Step 2: Print Out an Image
Print the image in the scale you would like your final print. Print out should be high contrast and black and white.
Step 3: Stretch a Screen
Unscrew and separate the embroidery hoop. Then, stretch the screen between the hoops. Reassemble the hoops and pull the screen tight. Make sure the screw is tight. Trim excess edges off the screen.
Step 4: Trace an Image
Place the screen face down on the print out. Then, trace the image onto your screen with a pencil. It may be helpful to secure the hoop to the paper with tape to avoid slipping.
Step 5: Create a Stencil
Paint glue on all surfaces of the screen where you don't want ink to pass through. This is similar to creating a stencil. Wait for the glue to completely dry before moving on to step 6.
*This step may be replaced by an emulsion method.
Step 6: Flood Image
Place the screen face down on the fabric or paper. Using the squeegee, put a good amount of ink over the image on the screen. Apply as little pressure as possible. Imagine you are icing a cake.
* It is a good idea to make a practice print before your final.
Step 7: Push Ink
Bare down and drag the squeegee across your screen. Push the ink through the fabric with some, but not too much, pressure. Make a few passes if necessary.
Step 8: Remove Screen
Slowly pull the screen off your fabric or paper. Repeat steps 6-8 for multiple prints. Wash your screen out with water before storing it for later use.
*If your image has multiple colors, you will need to make multiple screens or be incredibly careful while applying ink. Repeat steps 3-8 with those additional screens.
Step 9: Cure
Check the back of your ink or paint. There should be instructions on how to cure. Irons are often suggested as an alternative to professional heat dryers. Follow the instructions. That's it! Your screen print should be permanent and washable (fabric).
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