Screen printing techniques primarily require a fine mesh or screen tightly stretched around a rigid 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 cloth and ink is placed on top. A rubber blade is used to spread the ink evenly across the screen. The ink passes through the open spaces in the screen onto the paper or cloth below, after which the screen is removed. This method is generally used for printing flat or moderately flat surfaces.
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, spoon knives, multi-blades, and scalpels. They can be used to create a design on a nylon or polyester monofilament or multifilament surface or on photosensitive indirect screen printing film. One needs to have a collection of screen printing inks. With the help of blotting pens, an artist can block out the parts that are not going to print.
The next step is to spread the ink with spatulas, rubber blades or squeegees. After completing this step, the artist needs to use silkscreen frames. Hobbyists may consider using clamps or tape to hold the item to be printed in place. When using photosensitive indirect screen printing film, tabletop printers or garment printing machines should be used.
After the printing process is finished, it is important to cure the ink. For this, a textile dryer, a flash dryer and a drying board are required. Once the printing process is complete, a fabric cleaning brush is used to clean the screen. In some cases, a quick screen wash may be necessary to remove ink smudges. Instant screen openers can also be sprayed on a dry area of the screen to dissolve inks and open the mesh after two or three coats of ink.
To observe the minute details of the screen print, flash bulbs are used. Kits can be purchased as needed or a screen printing kit containing all the necessary items can be purchased. Until a hobbyist artist gains a better understanding of the process, ready-made stencils or designs can be used in the initial stages. Kits often come with manuals, which are indispensable guides for beginners and advanced users alike.
