Learn the Basics of Screen Printing
So, you want to know more about the art and science of screen printing? Well, you've come to the right place. This section will quickly cover some of the basic steps, vocabulary and tricks. For more indepth knowledge and information, please check into some of our classes and upcoming videos. Or just give us a call @ 800-741-3887 - we are glad to help answer your questions over the phone.
Definition
According to wikipedia - "Screen printing is a printing technique that uses a woven mesh to support an ink-blocking stencil. The attached stencil forms open areas of mesh that transfer ink as a sharp-edged image onto a substrate. A roller or squeegee is moved across the screen stencil, forcing or pumping ink past the threads of the woven mesh in the open areas.
Screen printing is also a stencil method of print making in which a design is imposed on a screen of silk or other fine mesh, with blank areas coated with an impermeable substance, and ink is forced through the mesh onto the printing surface. It is also known as Screen Printing, silkscreen, seriography, and serigraph." (Taken Verbatum from Wikipedia | 10/01/2010)
This definition isn't bad but doesn't say much either. Personally, we like this rather comical look at screen printing....
Ok, Let's Get Serious
Screen printing is used in a variety of applications today. Many of the electrical connections on circuit boards are screen printed. The most common use for screen printing is textile printing including t-shirts, sweatshirts and other fashion wearables.
This look at screen printing from the t-shirt printer's point of view and the techniques discussed will be directed toward this application. Many of the concepts carry over to other screen printing applications as well but our focus here will be about screen printing on garments and fabric.
New sections will be added on a weekly basis. Please check the links below for more information.
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