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Proper Designworks Screen printing machine with blue and green screens.

Screen Printing

A printing technique where a mesh is used to transfer ink onto fabric, or piece of paper (for example), except in areas made impermeable to the ink by a blocking stencil, or emulsion.

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Process

A blade or squeegee (mostly) is moved across the screen to fill the open mesh sections with ink, and a reverse stroke then causes the screen to touch the fabric momentarily along a line of contact.

This causes the ink to wet the fabric and be pulled out of the mesh apertures as the screen springs back after the blade has passed. One colour is printed at a time, so several screens can be used to produce a multi-coloured image or design.

Terminology

There are various terms used for what is essentially the same technique.

Traditionally, the process was called silkscreen printing because silk was used in the mesh of the screens. It is also known as serigraphy and serigraph printing.

Materials

Currently, synthetic threads are commonly used in the screen printing process rather than silk.

There are special-use mesh materials of nylon and stainless steel available to the screen-printer. There are also different types of mesh size which will determine the outcome and look of the finished design on the material.

Inks in Stock

We are happy to offer over 40 ink options on our regular stock list! No extra mixing fees here. Check them out here!

The Printing Essentials

Single Colour Print

The KISS principle of screen printing (keep it simple, stupid).

Choose from one of our stock colours at no charge, or ask for a Pantone match! Single colour prints will never go out style and will leave you with some extra cash in your wallet.

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