Screen printing is a printing technique used to quickly stencil an image on multiple objects.You build a screen and stencil, then push ink through the mesh and onto your shirt, paper or object.Being able to screen print at home allows you to create unique pieces of clothing and other objects, and you can replicate the design on as many objects you want, as long as you have the same screen.
Step 1: A canvas stretcher frame can be purchased at a craft store.
These frames are inexpensive and can be used to mount a canvas.For a little more money, you can purchase an aluminum frame that will last longer, as repeated washing will warp a wooden canvas.If you don't want to make a custom screen, you could purchase a standard one from an art store.Make sure your frame is large enough for your design.If you don't know your design yet or want a versatile frame for multiple designs, aim for 12x18"
Step 2: You can purchase the mesh.
A fine mesh that allows ink to pass onto the shirt, paper, or design is what you want.The mesh-count is a measure of how tight or loose the mesh is.The more intricate your details can be, the tighter the mesh is.The number of threads in a square inch is called the mesh count.Aim for a loose 85 mesh count for the classic "athletic" or collegiate print.Aim for 120-130 mesh count for a "do-it-all" mesh.There is a mesh count for paper and plastic printing.Lighter colored objects work best with higher mesh counts.If you're doing white paper, aim from 230 to 250.
Step 3: Take the mesh and put it into the frame.
Pull the screen tight before you start.You want it to be as taut as possible.The mesh should be stretched across the frame and stapled around the wood every 1 to 2 inches.You will need an electric staple gun to adhere the mesh.You can use framing nails as well.
Step 4: You can use a stencil to create a design.
Silkscreens only apply one color at a time, so make a simple shape or outline to begin learning.The inked part of the print will eventually be what you draw.You need Poster board, thin cardboard, or other thick and sturdy paper to make your own print.There is a pencil X-acto knife.
Step 5: Know the challenges of screen-printed designs.
What you draw is what you get on the final print.You can only print 1 color at a time and there are certain principles and limitations to screen printing.Black on white images are the best because you can't use shading.You need to make multiple prints, one for each color, and layer them after the ink has dried for complex designs.
Step 6: You can draw your design on the poster board.
Take a look at the blocks of your design.You can use the uploaded photos in photo editing software.Cut the drawing in half and then print it.If you want to make a stencil on the program, you have to take a black and white image and set it up near the highest it can be.
Step 7: As a stencil, cut the design out.
Everything that you cut away will be un-inked on the final print.The red logo of a bulls-eye is on a white t-shirt.All of the rings that are covered by the stencil will be red when you cut them out.
Step 8: Alternatively, draw your design on transparent paper.
It can be difficult to cut out the entire outline for a complex print.To make your stencil, use thick black ink on transparent paper.Your drawing needs to block light in order to allow you to print it.Everything covered by a stencil or black ink will not get exposed to light, leaving it "open" and allowing ink to pass onto the shirt or item.
Step 9: A thin layer of photo emulsion is all you need to coat your screen.
To spread a thin line along the entire screen, pour a line of emulsion along a side of the screen and use a squeegee.Anything that isn't covered by a stencil will turn into a barrier preventing ink from getting through.The side surrounded by wood should not be applied to the flat side of the frame.It's a good idea to do this in as dark a room as possible.
Step 10: It's a good idea to dry the emulsion in a dark place.
It should be exposed to as little light as possible.If you can close some curtains, a closet or bathroom will work.
Step 11: While waiting for the emulsion to dry, set up an "exposure area."
To prepare it, you'll need to expose it to a strong light.Set up a light above your black surface following the instructions on the bottle.Before starting, be sure to read the bottle for the times, watts, and distances needed for proper hardening.The lamp needs to be 1-2 feet above the emulsion.Set up a lamp with a 200 watt bulb 1-2 feet above a table if the emulsion calls for 30 minutes.The light illuminates the screen.
Step 12: The screen should be placed under the light in the exposure area.
You should cover the screen with a towel as you move it.Leave the towel on while you place it under the lamp.
Step 13: Put your stencil on the middle of the screen.
The mesh will be lifted off the table and placed on the frame.The space between the design and the edge of the frame is 4-5 inches.To get the right image, place your stencil down in reverse.Before you put it down, look at your stencil and flip it over.When you start printing, you will get a mirror image.If there is a breeze, place a piece of glass on top of the stencil to keep it from moving.Don't move your screen, light, or stencil after it's placed and set.
Step 14: The light should be turned on for the recommended time.
The screen should be removed when you follow the instructions on the bottle.Set the stencil aside when it is done.If you smell something burning, turn off the light.When the design is removed, you should see the faint outline of your stencil in the emulsion if you prepared it correctly.
Step 15: The water should be cold so you can blast off the emulsion.
If you want to focus on your image, wash off the screen with any high-powered water source.The unhardened emulsion will be washed away by the water.The outline of your stencil should appear.Continue spraying until you can see your image.The screen should be dry before moving on.
Step 16: The object you're printing on should be above the screen.
The mesh should be touching the paper or shirt you're printing on.To prevent the ink from bleeding through, slide some cardboard between the layers of the shirt.
Step 17: Get some ink on your design.
You can put a thin line of ink above your design.The entire stencil should be coated in ink when you drag the squeegee over it.The harder you press, the darker your image will be.
Step 18: Pull off your piece of equipment.
Pull the screen off the shirt and hang it up to dry.Your design will be printed.
Step 19: You can repeat with as many shirts as you want.
If you want, you can add more ink to your t-shirt.After every shirt, wipe down the backside.If you use the same print for multiple days in a row, rinse and dry it at the end of each day.