Free Shipping on orders over US$99.99

Here’s Everything You Need to Start Screen Printing

Here’s Everything You Need to Start Screen Printing

Introduction:

Screen printing is a versatile and rewarding technique for creating custom designs on various surfaces, from clothing to posters and beyond. For beginners eager to dive into this creative world, understanding the essential tools and materials is the first step toward success. Here’s a comprehensive guide detailing everything you need to kickstart your screen-printing journey.

  1. Screen Printing Press:

The cornerstone of any screen-printing setup is a reliable printing press. It’s crucial to choose a press that suits your needs, whether it’s a tabletop model for smaller projects or a more substantial floor-standing press for larger-scale productions. Factors like durability, printing surface area, and ease of use are vital considerations.

  1. Screens and Frames:

Screens, typically made of polyester or metal mesh attached to a frame, hold the stencil in place during printing. Beginners can start with a few standard screen sizes (e.g., 10″ x 14″ or 20″ x 24″) and gradually expand their collection based on project requirements.

  1. Squeegees:

Squeegees are used to push ink through the stencil onto the printing surface. They come in various sizes and durometers (hardness levels), allowing for different ink deposit amounts. A good starting point for beginners is a medium-sized squeegee with a versatile durometer.

  1. Emulsion and Emulsion Remover:

Emulsion is a light-sensitive substance applied to the screen to create the stencil. Beginners should invest in a quality emulsion suitable for their printing needs, along with an emulsion remover for cleaning and reclaiming screens after printing.

  1. Ink and Ink Additives:

Selecting the right ink is crucial for achieving desired print results. Beginners can start with water-based or plastisol inks, considering factors like opacity, color range, and ease of use. Additionally, ink additives like thinners or extenders can modify ink consistency for specific printing requirements.

  1. Exposure Unit or Light Source:

An exposure unit or a strong light source (like a UV lamp) is essential for curing the emulsion-coated screens after the design has been exposed onto them. This step makes the stencil ready for printing by hardening the exposed areas.

  1. Washout Booth and Pressure Washer:

A washout booth equipped with a pressure washer facilitates the removal of unexposed emulsion from screens after the design has been transferred. This equipment is essential for reclaiming screens for future use.

  1. Drying Racks and Screen Storage:

Invest in drying racks to air-dry freshly printed items and a dedicated screen storage system to keep screens organized and safe when not in use.

Conclusion:

Embarking on the screen printing journey can be both exciting and fulfilling. By gathering these essential tools and materials, beginners can set the stage for creating stunning custom prints, exploring their creativity, and honing their skills in this dynamic craft.

Remember, as you progress in screen printing, consider experimenting with different techniques, expanding your color palette, and investing in additional tools to further elevate your printing capabilities.

 

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Digi Ink Montreal I Screen Printing Inks & Supplies
Logo
Shopping cart