How to Screen Print Your Own T-Shirt

Materials and Initial Preparation

• Screen: Purchase instead of building. Costs $20-$25.
  • Choose between wooden or aluminum frames.
• Mesh Count: Start with 110 or 156 for beginners.
• Degreasing the Screen:
  • Clean screen to remove dust and dirt.
  • Use washout booth, shower tub, or patio.
  • Use garden hose, designated brush, or sponge.
  • Steps: wet screen, spray degreaser, scrub, rinse, dry.

Applying Emulsion

• Scoop Coater: Needed for applying emulsion.
• Emulsion: Light sensitive; avoid direct sunlight.
  • Suggested brand: User's preferred brand (forgiving and easy to use).
• Application Steps:
  • Tilt screen 45 degrees, apply emulsion with scoop coater.
  • One coat outside and one inside (or more for thicker stencils).
  • Dry screen face down in a dark place (e.g., restroom, closet).
  • Save unused emulsion and clean scoop coater immediately.

Preparing the Artwork

• Transparency Paper: Special coated needed with inkjet printer.
  • Alternatively, have it printed at a local shop.
  • Ensure the black is opaque; layer transparencies if needed.
• Design Attachment:
  • Use tape to attach transparency to the screen.
  • Align design 3-4 fingers below shirt collar.
  • Use a T-squared ruler for alignment.

Exposing and Washing the Screen

• Exposure Methods:
  • Sun exposure (10-15 mins), light source on top (8-10 mins), or light box (30-40 seconds).
  • Ensure full contact between screen and glass using weights.
• Washing Out:
  • Use garden hose, optionally a pressure washer.
  • Check for complete removal of unexposed emulsion.
  • Dry screen with or without fan assistance.

Printing Process

• Aligning and Inking:
  • Center and lock screen on the palette.
  • Use adhesive to keep shirt in place.
  • Apply ink with a spatula or spoon.
• Squeegee Use: Wooden or aluminum; angle at 45 degrees.
  • Push method recommended for beginners.
  • First flood screen, then push ink through.

Drying and Final Steps

• Curing the Ink: Use flash dryer (preferred) or heat gun.
  • Ensure ink reaches 275-350°F (refer to ink brand instructions).
  • Perform stretch test to check ink curing.

Final Notes

• Why Screen Print?: Understand your motive to invest wisely.
• Additional Resources:
  • Ongoing work on a screen printing guide for beginners.
• Engagement: Subscribe, like, comment for more content and questions.