Screen printing techniques primarily require a fine mesh or screen securely stretched around a stiff casing. Segments that are not to be printed are blocked on the screen. To create a print, the screen is placed on a piece of dry paper or fabric and ink is placed on top of it. A rubber blade is used to spread ink consistently across the screen. The ink passes through the open spaces in the screen onto the paper or fabric below after which the screen is removed. This method is usually used for flat or moderately flat surface printing. This process is a combination of preparation, installation and orientation. In the initial stages, one needs to use cutting tools to create a design. These include art knives, scooping knives, multiple blades and scalpels. One can use these to create a design on a monofilament or multifilament nylon or polyester surface or a photosensitive indirect screen printing film. One needs to have a collection of screen printing inks. With the help of blotting pens, an artist may block the parts that are not to be printed. The next step involves spreading the ink with spatulas, rubber blades or squeegees. After this step is completed, the artist needs to use screen printing frames. Amateurs may consider using clamps or tapes to hold the article to be printed, in place. While using a photosensitive indirect screen printing film, tabletop printers or garment printing machines have to be used. Once the printing process is completed, it is important to cure the ink. For this, a textile dryer, flash dryer and a drying board is required. After the printing process is completed, a fabric cleaning brush is used to clean the screen. In some cases, a fast screen wash may be needed to remove ink stains. Instant screen openers may also be sprayed on a dry area of the screen to dissolve the inks and open the mesh after two or three ink coats. In order to observe the minute details of screen printing, flash bulbs are used. Equipments may be purchased as needed or a screen printing kit containing all the necessary items can be purchased. Until an amateur artist gains a better understanding of the process, one may use ready-to-use stencils or designs in the initial stages. Kits often come with manuals, which are indispensable guides for beginners and advanced users alike. |
