SCREEN PRINTING

printed design

Published on 22nd Jun, 2023

Last Edited on 12th Aug, 2025

Reading Time: 2 Minute Read

The Screen Printing Process Is A Direct Printing Technique Where A Mesh Is Used To Transfer Ink Onto A Substrate, Except In Areas Made Impermeable To The Ink By A Blocking Stencil. Traditionally, The Process Was Also Called Silk Screen Print Because Silk Was Used In The Process. It Is Also Known As Serigraphy And Serigraph Printing. We Discuss About The Craft Along With The Pros And Cons Of Screen Printing.

INTRODUCTION

Screen printing is a technique where a mesh or screen transfers ink onto a substrate, except in areas made impermeable to the ink by a blocking stencil. The impermeable areas are created with the help of photographic emulsion. The photographic emulsion technique involves the photosensitive substance reacting with light and becoming insoluble. This screen is made of fine material.

Various types of mesh sizes will determine the outcome and look of the finished design on the material. The fabric count is such that it is possible for the print paste to pass through the interstices between the yarns.

As with other methods of color transfer, the number of screens needed for a design will depend on the number of colors used. The width of the screen decides the repeat size of the print.

HISTORY

Screen printing first appeared in a recognizable form in China during the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD). It was then adapted by other Asian countries like Japan and was further created using newer methods.

The screen-printing process was largely introduced to Western Europe from Asia sometime in the late 18th century but did not gain large acceptance or use in Europe until silk mesh was more available for trade from the East and a profitable outlet for the medium discovered.

HOW TO SCREEN PRINT- STEP 1: DESIGN CREATION

During the initial stage of the design process, a surface design is developed. Once the surface design is finalized, it is meticulously duplicated onto an acetate film which will serve as a stencil for the process of printing.

STEP 2: SCREEN PREPARATION

Next, the screen is prepared by selecting suitable mesh screen, taking into account the intricacy of the design and the fabric's texture. This is done to guarantee the best possible printing outcomes.

STEP 3: EMULSION EXPOSED FOR DRYING

The acetate sheet with the printed design is placed onto the screen covered with the light-sensitive emulsion. It is then exposed to intense light, causing the emulsion to solidify and form a stencil.

STEP 4: CLEANSING OF EMULSION

The unexposed, unhardened emulsion is rinsed away with precision, leaving behind a transparent imprint for the ink to flow through. Once any required corrections are made, the screen is dried and becomes ready for use.

STEP 5: PRINTING PROCESS

The fabric is placed flat, and a screen is lowered onto a board. Ink is applied to the top end, and a squeegee is utilized to drag the ink across the screen, pressing it through the open areas of the stencil and creating a design on the fabric.

STEP 6: FINISHING

The fabric with the printed design goes through a dryer that helps to set the ink and achieve a durable and vibrant color. Subsequently, it undergoes a thorough inspection and washing process to ensure that any remaining residue is completely removed.

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DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FLATBED PFRESS AND ROTARY SCREEN

A Flatbed Press is the most basic and least expensive option for screen printing. It uses a flatbed that holds the fabric screen printing onto the fabric. Because this process uses only one color at a time, each print will be darker than those made with other types of screens because they don't have access to all four colors in one pass as they do with rotary or cylinder presses.

A Rotary Screen utilizes revolving drums or cylindrical screens that hold color inside and apply it evenly against fabric surfaces when they roll during the printing process. This screen-printing process is more expensive than flat-bed screens because they require more complex machinery and higher quality parts and materials.

ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES OF SCREEN PRINTING

ADVANTAGES

DISADVANTAGES

VISUALS OF SCREEN PRINTING

Yes, we offer sample prints so you can review the design, colors, and quality before proceeding with a larger order.

In the world of textile design, color is more than aesthetics—it’s an identity. And when it comes to...

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