The process of screen printing: From design to final print.

Screen printing is a popular and versatile method of printing that has been used for centuries. It involves transferring ink onto a surface through a mesh screen, using a stencil. The process of screen printing requires careful attention to detail and precision to achieve a high-quality final print. We wanted to explore the step-by-step process of screen printing, from design to the final print, to give you a better idea of our workflow for print projects.

We’ve learned how to get creative to have an efficient and effective workflow with a small shop space.

Designing the Artwork

The first step in the screen printing process is designing the artwork. This involves creating a digital or hand-drawn image that will be transferred onto the screen. Here at Daze Printing, we really enjoy hand-drawing our designs and then using a tablet and drawing software to convert the concept to a digital version. The artwork should be clear, bold, and have high contrast to ensure that it translates well onto the final print. Considerations such as color choice, composition, and scale are important factors in creating an effective design. Once the artwork is finalized, it is important to convert it into a stencil using a specialized emulsion or film.

Preparing the Screen

After the artwork is ready, the next step is preparing the screen. A screen is made of a fine mesh stretched tightly over a frame. To prepare the screen, a light-sensitive emulsion is applied evenly to the mesh. The emulsion is then dried in a dark room, ensuring that no light exposure occurs during this process. This step is crucial in creating a stencil that can withstand the printing process. Once the emulsion is dried, the stencil, created from the artwork, is placed on top of the screen and exposed to light. The areas of the stencil that are exposed to light will harden the emulsion, while the covered areas will remain soft.

Printing the Design

Once the screen is prepared, it is time to start printing. A piece of fabric or paper is placed under the screen, and ink is poured over the stencil. A squeegee, a flat blade with a rubber edge, is then used to press the ink through the mesh screen and onto the surface below. The squeegee is pulled across the screen with a firm and even pressure, ensuring that the ink is evenly spread across the design. This process is repeated for each color in the design, with each color requiring its own stencil and screen. Careful alignment and registration are important to ensure that the colors line up correctly and create a cohesive final print.

Curing the Print

After the design has been printed, the ink needs to be cured to ensure durability and longevity. This is typically done by heat setting the print. The printed material is subjected to high temperatures, either through a heat press or a conveyor dryer, to allow the ink to fully bond with the surface. Curing times and temperatures may vary depending on the type of ink used and the material being printed on. Proper curing is essential in achieving a print that can withstand repeated washing and wear.

Finishing Touches

Once the print is cured, any additional finishing touches can be added. This may include trimming excess fabric, removing any imperfections, or adding embellishments such as embroidery or sequins. These final steps help to enhance the overall appearance and quality of the print, ensuring that it meets the desired specifications.

Conclusion

The process of screen printing, from design to the final print, is a meticulous and fascinating journey. It requires creativity, attention to detail, and technical skill to produce high-quality prints. By understanding the steps involved in screen printing, you can gain a greater appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into each and every print. Whether it's for t-shirts, posters, or other promotional items, screen printing continues to be a popular choice for creating unique and visually striking designs. So the next time you come across a beautifully printed garment or artwork, take a moment to appreciate the intricate process that went into creating it. We hope that this walkthrough can give you a better understanding of what our process is when you place an order for some screen printed merch! If you have any questions or would like to learn more, reach out to us at https://dazeprinting.co/ or at info@dazeprinting.co.