Printing is a process of creating pictures and text, normally using ink, paper and a printing press. Over time, printing technology has developed significantly. Diverse techniques are available, but screen-printing is used most of the time.

Screen-printing, also referred to as silk screening, is a method that is best for surfaces that are comparatively flat. In this process, fine mesh or a screen is tightly stretched around a rigid frame, with the screen masking areas which will not be printed. In order to make a print, the screen is placed atop the item that is to be printed; then a blob of thick ink is applied. Next the ink is pressed through the screen with the assistance of a squeegee. The ink bonds to the unmasked area, thereby creating the print, and the masked area is protected from ink incursion. After this, the printed item goes through a heated tunnel that dries the ink so that items can be stacked or put into packages.

When more than one color is involved, the process is repeated, utilizing different screens. So, four screens would be necessary for a four-color print; they can be placed on a rotary press or done by hand, allowing each color to print in its proper place.

There are a number of methods for ‘masking’ a screen. The easiest technique is via application of masking fluid right onto the screen. This is the perfect procedure for dual-color graphics, while for multiple-color tasks, a photosensitive emulsion is the proper procedure.

If you are unsure what to request when ordering, remember that a screen printer’s t-shirt printed with ink with plastics will be hot and tacky afterwards. It might be wise to request water-based inks if you prefer a softer, vintage-look screen printed shirt. But if you are interested in a heavily laid print, you should request ink containing plastics to be applied with a hot press.

Inks containing plastics are used by many screen printers because often they last longer, are richer, heavier and more easily seen, not to mention being easier on the screen printing equipment. Within a short time frame, plastic inks can begin to crack up, though. Natural inks last longer and they look better too.

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