How is silk screening done?

Silk screening, otherwise known as screen printing, is a process used to print designs and images on various surfaces like fabric, paper, glass, and plastic. Here is a step-by-step breakdown of how the process is completed:

1. Design creation: The design is created in a digital format using a software program.

2. Set up: A screen is created by stretching porous fabric such as polyester mesh over a frame. The screen is then placed over the material to be printed on.

3. Pre-press: A stencil, also referred to as a screen, is created by placing a light-sensitive emulsion over the screen. The design is then placed over the emulsion, and the screen is exposed to light. The area that is blocked by the design remains unexposed, and the emulsion hardens. The screen is then rinsed with water, leaving a stencil on the fabric.

4. Ink preparation: Ink is mixed according to the design requirements. The ink’s texture and thickness are essential to ensure that it can pass through the screen and print correctly.

5. Printing: The screen is attached to a printing press, and the ink is poured over the stencil. A squeegee is then used to evenly apply pressure across the screen, pushing the ink through the open areas to the material beneath.

6. Drying: The material is flashed with heat to dry the print and make it tacky for the next layer to stick.

7. Repeat: Depending on the design, the process can be repeated, layering colors and allowing for multiple silk screen prints.

Silk screening is a fast and efficient way to print on multiple surfaces and is used widely in many industries.