Screen printing is a printing technique used to create ink decorations on fabric. The procedure consists in applying some pressure on a stencil placed on a screen to let the ink pass from the free areas of the stencil to the fabric. Learning how to make screen printing at home gives you the ability to create unique pieces of clothing and other items. Use these steps to make your own custom screen prints.
Steps
Step 1. Build your screen
- Purchase a canvas frame from a home improvement or fine art store. These are simple and inexpensive frames made of wood, on which a stretched canvas can be mounted. For a slightly higher cost, you can purchase an aluminum frame that will last longer.
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Purchase some medium mesh (43T) canvas - it needs to be in enough quantity to cover your frame.
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Stretch the canvas tightly over the wooden frame and pin it all around every 2, 5 - 5 cm.
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Step 2. Create a drawing
- Decide what you want to print on your fabric. You can use photos or images and modify them with a photo editing program, in order to simplify the drawing in its main lines.
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Print or trace the design on a thick sheet of paper.
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Cut out the stencil from the design you drew.
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Step 3. Prepare the screen
- Cover the side of the screen in contact with the fabric with adhesive tape, so as to outline the stencil.
- Cover the rest of the screen with masking tape.
- This step prevents the paint from getting onto the fabric, beyond the edge of the stencil.
Step 4. Prepare the fabric
- Make sure the fabric is dry and clean.
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Lay the fabric on a flat surface, with the side to be printed facing up.
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Step 5. Place the design on the fabric, in the position where you want the print to appear
Step 6. Secure the screen securely to the fabric and design, making sure the screen is well framed by the adhesive tape
Step 7. Pour some ink on the back of the frame (on the side facing you)
Step 8. Press the frame firmly with your non-dominant hand and pass the spatula over the top of the frame
Step 9. Swipe the spatula from top to bottom, applying firm, even pressure
The ink should spread over the fabric as you pass the palette knife
Step 10. Repeat this last step a couple of times
Add more ink if needed.
Step 11. Place your non-dominant hand on the cloth and gently raise the screen
Step 12. Place the next piece of fabric on the flat surface if you want to make multiple copies
If you wait too long between prints, the ink on the frame dries out and makes printing impossible
Step 13. Wash the frame thoroughly with water and rub it lightly to remove excess ink
Advice
You can buy pre-canvas frames at many home improvement stores, but the price can go up a lot
Warnings
- Do not choose images that are too detailed for screen printing. Details may not impress as you would like.
- Do not let the ink dry on the frame: it will make it unusable.
- Always wear gloves and cover the counter with newspaper or plastic when using permanent ink.
