Screen printing is a popular method for creating custom t-shirts, posters, and other printed items. However, before you can begin printing, you need to make sure your screens are properly prepared. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your screens ready for printing.
Step 1: Coating the Screens
The first step in preparing your screens for printing is to coat them with a light-sensitive emulsion. This emulsion is applied to the screen using a scoop coater, and then left to dry in a dark room. The emulsion hardens when exposed to light, creating a stencil on the screen that will allow ink to pass through to the substrate during the printing process.
Step 2: Drying the Screens
After you’ve coated your screens, they need to be dried completely before you can burn the image onto them. You can dry your screens using a drying cabinet or by leaving them to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Be sure to keep your screens out of direct sunlight and away from any sources of heat.
Step 3: Burning the Screens
Once your screens are dry, you’re ready to burn the image onto them. This process is called “exposing” the screens. You’ll need to use a film positive (a reversed image of what you want to print) to burn the image onto the screen. Place the film positive on top of the screen and place the screen in an exposing unit. The exposing unit will use UV light to burn the image onto the screen, hardening the emulsion in the areas where you want ink to pass through.
Step 4: Cleaning and Maintenance
After you’ve printed your items, it’s important to clean and maintain your screens to ensure they last as long as possible. To clean your screens, use a mild detergent and a soft brush to remove any ink or emulsion residue. Be sure to rinse the screens thoroughly with water and let them dry completely before storing them.
Additionally, to maintain your screens, check them for holes or tears before each use, and replace the screens if necessary.
Tips for a Great Dark Room:
- Use a red light bulb: This will help preserve the light-sensitive emulsion on your screens and prevent exposure to light.
- Keep a clean and organized workspace: To minimize the risk of contamination, keep your dark room clean and organized.
- Use a light-tight box: When you’re not using your screens, store them in a light-tight box to protect them from exposure to light.
- Make sure to have all the necessary equipment: Scoop coater, drying cabinet, exposing unit, etc.
Screen printing is a fun and rewarding hobby, but it does require some preparation and maintenance. By following these steps and tips, you’ll be able to create beautiful printed items that you’ll be proud to share with others. So, grab your screens, and get ready to print!