Screen printing is a process in which ink is pushed through an engraved mesh to create an image on paper. The design, or artwork, can be anything from your company logo to the most intricate drawings. It’s typically done on fabric and most often seen with T-shirts, but it can also be used for other purposes like making temporary tattoos.
How Does Screen Printing Work?
In screen printing, you use a stencil that etching designs have created into the mesh. This allows the ink to transfer only where there are no holes. When the ink hits the paper, it will adhere to the areas without holes. You can print multiple colors onto one piece of material at once.
What is Silk Screening?
Silk screening is similar to silk painting. In this method, you apply paint directly to silk using brushes, rollers, spray cans, etc. Once the paint dries, you peel off the backing, and voila! A beautiful work of art.
The Different Methods Of Screen Printing
Cut Paper Stencil Method
This is a very old technique that was originally used when creating posters. The artist would cut out shapes from paper and then paste them over a canvas. They would then draw around the edges of the shape and remove the pieces of paper.
Screen Printing Filler Method
Filling screens is a great way to get started if you’re new to screen printing. All you need is some filler (like rice) and a squeegee. Squeegees come in different sizes and thicknesses, so make sure you pick the right size for your project.
Screen Printing Emulsion Method
Emulsion screen printing is a bit more complicated than the previous methods:
• You have to prepare your emulsion.
• Mix the emulsion with water and spread it evenly across the screen. After that, you place your artwork on top of the emulsion.
• You let it dry and repeat until all the color combinations are complete.
Screen Printing Multiple Colors
If you want to add more than one color to your screen printing projects, you’ll need to do two things. First, you’ll need to separate your emulsion into different containers. Second, you’ll need to mask each container separately.
Where is Screen Printing used?
You’ve probably already noticed that screen printing is used everywhere. From t-shirt companies to clothing stores, you can find screen-printed items everywhere. Some of the benefits of screen printing:
1. Easy to Make Designs
You can turn your ideas into reality with just a few simple steps.
2. Fast Turnaround Time
If you order a custom shirt online, you can expect to receive it within three weeks.
3. Customizable
You can customize almost everything about your shirts.
4. Affordable
Prices start as low as $10 per item.
5. Eco Friendly
There are many ways to recycle your old shirts.
6. Durable
Your shirts should last for years.
There are many different screen printing techniques available to help you achieve your goals. Each method offers its advantages and disadvantages. However, we hope our guide helped you learn more about how screen printing works and what you can do with it.
