Gaining an understanding of screen printing can be beneficial for many areas in your life. It is an art form that can be traced back to the Song Dynasty in China, if not farther. From here, the process was adapted through Asia as new techniques arose. By the late 18th c. screen printing arrived in Western Europe. The art form continued to evolve with time and gained new popularity in part thanks to Andy Warhol. Today screen printing is arguably one of the most versatile printing methods.
Screen Printing Defined
Screen printing is a technique in which mesh is used to transfer ink using a stencil; only one color can be printed at a time. It is an involved process that can be separated into a pre-press process, staging the screen, preparing the ink, pressing the stencil on the intended material, and repeating each step for individual colors.
Materials to Use
The surface in which the print will be transformed to can be any material from paper to fabric. In order to use this technique the basic materials are a mesh screen, a frame, stencil materials, a squeegee, and ink. The type of materials and type of printing press will vary depending upon the desired outcome.
The Process
- Creating the screen- the type of mesh that works best will vary
- Set up the printing press and choose the ink for the project at hand
- Print your design