A Simple Guide to Screen Printing Equipment

If you want to create clean and sharp prints, it's essential to have the right screen printing tools. In this guide, we'll explain the different types of screen printing equipment and what they do during the printing process.

Screen Printing Press

While you can screen print using just a mesh screen and a squeegee, most printers prefer to use a press. A press holds the screen in place, making it easier to switch out the paper or clothing you're printing on, and speeds up the process.

There are three types of presses: manual, semi-automatic, and automatic. Manual presses are operated by hand, which can be tiring. Semi-automatic presses need some human input, while automatic presses do most of the work for you.

Large companies use semi-automatic or fully automatic presses because they can print faster and more accurately. Smaller businesses or hobbyists often use a manual press because it's more affordable and suitable for smaller projects.

Ink for Screen Printing

Ink is pressed through the mesh screen onto the item being printed, creating the design. Choosing the right ink depends on the material you're printing on and the look you want to achieve.

There are special inks like glitter, textured, or puff inks (which rise when heated) that can give your prints a unique look. For clothing, printers use washable inks that become durable after heat treatment so the design lasts through multiple washes.

The Screen

In screen printing, the "silkscreen" is a frame with a fine mesh stretched across it. This mesh used to be made of silk, but now it's mostly polyester, which is cheaper and just as effective. The mesh's thickness can vary based on the material being printed, and thinner mesh allows for more detailed designs.

Once the screen is coated and exposed to light, it's ready for use. After printing, you can clean and reuse the screen for future projects.

The Squeegee

A squeegee is a rubber blade attached to a handle used to push ink through the screen and onto the material. Printers choose the size of the squeegee to match the screen for even ink coverage.

A firm rubber squeegee is best for detailed prints, while a softer one works well for simpler designs or printing on fabric.

Cleaning the Screens

After printing, screens need to be cleaned to remove any leftover emulsion. Some printers use special cleaning liquids, while others use water and a power hose to clean the screens.

FAQs

Will screen printing ink wash off?

If printed by a trained professional using heat-treated washable ink, the design shouldn’t wash off. Following the ink manufacturer’s instructions is essential to ensure a durable, washable print.

What’s the difference between screen printing and digital printing?

Digital printing (also known as direct-to-garment printing) uses a printer to apply designs directly onto fabric. Unlike screen printing, digital printing doesn’t require stencils, so it’s great for detailed or multi-colored designs. However, screen printing provides richer colors and textured finishes.

How does screen printing compare to heat transfer printing?

Heat transfer printing uses heat to bond a design to fabric. The design is first printed onto transfer paper, then pressed onto the fabric. This method is simple and affordable, especially for smaller projects, and is great for printing photos or complex designs.

Heat transfer printing can also be combined with digital techniques for more precision. However, quality can vary depending on the materials and techniques used, so it’s important to use high-quality products to get the best results.