This is my favorite screen printing tutorial I've seen so far because it gives me a real idea of what I would be able to do myself without needing a printer or anything too fancy. I always loving doing things a little low tech in such a high tech world we live in now, gotta have balance.
This is a super effective method of stencil creation for people that don't have a print studio you can also use paper stencils and they will adhere to the mesh after the first print. Check out my new print tutorial videos on my channel. How to screen print for cheap help you make a screen with emulsion without the use of any equipment.
Very cool tutorial. A lot of people do this. Especially sign makers ;) It's a spin off of a paper stencil. You can do the same thing with a paper stencil and spray tack to keep the image parts in place. The only difference is you would have to manually place the lose parts of the image. But you can actually do a lot with a 1 piece paper stencil using only the ink to keep it adhered to the screen. Come get some Catspit~!
Yeah! My co-worker and I were thinking about trying that method as well at some point. Might be even easier and faster to clean up! Thanks for the reminder suggestion!
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"WOW" ... This is SOOO SMART!!!! My friend had a silk screening business... and she was always having to "Burn" her images... I always wondered if there was an easier way... This is a great tutorial... Thank you... and Thank you for NOT having annoying music in the background!!! I want to hear you... not the music interfering with the tutorial... :)
this isn't a new method, it has been around for decades (it's a stencil method). you can use this for making simple designs of one color and little details. if you need more colors more details and a more photo realistic image. you do it "The other way"
Thanks so much! We needed to use a method that would be easier to clean up since we are working in a Library and not a print studio. We have done multi-color prints with layers and overlaps and it worked just great. I would say though that burning the images (if you have a dark room and a way to power wash the screens for reuse) creates a much more detailed image. However, this is a pretty easy and fun introduction that has gotten a lot of our students interested in printmaking!
Thank you! You answered so many questions that I had in only 6:56 minutes. I will be trying a two color design for my band, if you have any advice would greatly appreciate it.
Hello, great video and shot very well. I don't want to sound negative with my comment, so please take this as constructive. When we first started printing we tried this method of weeding out the sticker and then putting it on our custom frames. The only problem is if you have fine detail as you weed the vinyl, you can sometimes cause the fine lines to be out of place ever so slightly and that can cause your print to look like it wasn't registered properly when in fact you might have your multiple colors lined up perfect. I'd recommend using emulsion and its way easier and cost effective versus vinyl. Not to mention it's much faster. If you don't want to invest into a vacuum exposure unit, you can get away with using (1) 500 W halogen flood light and it will expose your emulsion. You just have to figure out how long your exposure times take. You can find these things called exposure calculators online and they are very handy to have. wish you luck on your endeavors!
Thanks for the suggestion! I work for the Chicago Public Library and we happen to work out of a space without the capability to run a dark room or use a power washer. We wanted to be able to screen print despite those restrictions so we began using this method instead. For a while we were working with a local print shop that would create our screens for us but the lag time was just too much and our students were too impatient :D I definitely agree that this method is less capable of doing multi-color prints in great detail but with careful registration we have been able to accomplish some pretty cool multi screen prints despite that.
OMGOSH! I just got a cricut and YOUR VIDEO, JUST CHANGED MY LIFE!!! You’re the MAN!!! BIG THANK YOU!!!! I greatly appreciate you sharing this knowledge!
Hey, sorry, have not been keeping tabs on this like I should! My coworker created the screen board, but its pretty simple: just wood and some clamps. If you look up "Speedball Hinge Clamps For Screen Printing" you can find the type of materials he used!
Really liked your video! I just finished doing my first screen print with vinyl and it went pretty well but when I went to clean up I washed the screen and the vinyl instantly fell off and I lost a couple small pieces down the drain. My question is how to you remove the vinyl from the screen prior to washing? Won't the paint get stuck to the vinyl making it difficult to reuse? Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Yeah, we don't reuse the vinyl sadly. If you want a screen that will keep the same image on it for multiple printing sessions, you likely need to reapply it or get it burned.
What I suggest is scanning your original design, given that it was made on a physical surface (paper, canvas, what have you) & save it as a digital copy. Doing so will allow you to polish any imperfections & you will never have to worry ab losing that "one perfect design." Hope that helped
what vinyl and transfer tape did you use ? I have silhouette transfer tape and vinyl from Amazon & the small details of the design will not stick on the transfer paper . Need major help .
What kind of vinyl and transfer tape did you use? I used 651 and siser transfer tape and spent about an hour trying to get the transfer tape off the screen with out pulling the vinyl up also 😭
Amazing details. I really want to try this but not sure I want to out the money out on the off chance I hate it or suck at making designs since my art skills are not amazing
Greetings from London UK. You must have a good cutter as those small bits would come off. Anyway I have lost my software dongle and to get the same software again would cost me £400. As i only want to do sign painting with basic lettering can you recommend a cheaper software. Good work.
+Mike Leonard Yeah, my coworker Jeff showed me that trick. Quick and easy registration technique that works surprisingly well, even for dual layer/color prints.
Thanks for this - what a really cool method for screen printing although the last half of the video is a blur cause I fell in love at 4:55 which broke my concentration.
hello if you have questions about screen printing feel free to contact me. I work at a screen printing shop so I know alot about the subject thanks. as for your method with the vinal. it's great keep in mind that with higher detail images a higher mesh count screen will help better but makes putting ink thru it more difficult
NOTE.! USE GOOD QUALITY VINYL.! Also recommend sitting out in the sun for 5 mins if it's a hot day just to stick better, he says it doesn't come up but I have have so many problems with the technique, but I use watersol, plastisol might be different idk
Okay so my wife and i started a business personalizing decorations and making various things and in alot of cases the images id be making are only used once would would i be able to use this method efficiently without tearing up screens if i was to set up and use once and then change out vinyl multiple times a day for single color designs ive never screen printed at all but it look like a superior method to stencils and paint they always seem very hit and miss
Yup, you can reuse the screen after removing the vinyl. It is actually very good and pretty quick way to change stencils on screens. Just make sure you are removing the ink between prints.
We use fairly thick t-shirts to print so we don't really have any issues with bleeding. If you need to put something between the front and back, you can just get a piece of cardboard (non-corrugated) or a shirt form to put in there. Even a few pieces of paper would likely stop the ink from bleeding through. You just have to make sure it is a flat enough surface to avoid leaving an impression on the print.
Yeah, so the design needs to be flipped to look "backwards." The reason is that, as you can see when I apply it to the screen, I am putting it on the bottom of the screen. That way, the ink passes through and creates a design that is legible. Its really most important with text, but if you want your design to look exactly like you created it to begin with, you need to cut a flipped version to put on the screen.
So essentially it comes down to the cost of a vinyl printer ($300) and either heat pressing multiple pieces of vinyl (with an added $200 heat press) or using one piece of vinyl + the cost of emulsion (Screen printing supplies). Although with this technique you could just purchase one pre-cut piece of vinyl and save a few hundred... Nice...
Vinyl as negative for screen print? It'll only last few shirts, it wont hold that long if it gets wet by paint. So its not recommended if youre printing bulk orders of more than 5 shirts. 👎🏻👎🏻
quit calling it paint -- it's ink. i don't know of many, if any, pros who actually use that 'air-dry' stuff, most consider it hobby quality because if you don't actually cure it afterwards it'll crack and has a heavy hand.
As someone who has worked in the vinyl department of a sign shop AND at a screen printing shop, this video triggers me. So much done wrong here. Terrible.
great tutorial, thanks! I just started to use this method and have been running into issues keeping the screen flooded. my assumption is the vinyl - while blocking the ink from getting to the paper - is still allowing it through the screen, trapping/losing it behind the vinyl. I started noticing the stencil deteriorated quickly (like after 15-ish). have you had any issues with this? how long do they typical last? do you find you have to use more or less ink? any suggestions would appreciated. I don't quite have the set-up for emulsion use, which is why I'm exploring alternatives. thanks!
Hi Robert! I'm not sure what to tell you on this one. :( I have used a single screen to do several dozen prints before so I have not had this problem or had to work through it. How is your stencil deteriorating? A couple of things to check for larger print jobs: make sure you are printing quickly. Set out all of your materials beforehand so they are easy to get to and easy to set aside after. Having a helper is great for this! The longer you take between prints, the more likely the screen is to get clogged. Also, make sure you are using good ink and possibly ink extender for extended print jobs. The longer the paint sits out, the less liquidity and elasticity it has and the more likely it is to clog. Also, it sounds like maybe your vinyl is not sticking to the screen that well? Does it adhere well or is it floating loosely?
thanks for the response! first things first - I think I suck at silk screening! trying to get better, but it's a work in progress. that learning curve is definitely causing me some problems here. as for your comment on the vinyl, I definitely think it could be an issue. it's adhering smoothly to the screen and there are no bubbles or anything but it seems to be a little thin and less tacky than it should be. I'm going to try using the oracal vinyl as you used in this tutorial and see if I have any more luck with that brand. I'm hoping it helps. I'm also finding that my paper is getting stuck to the screen which is causing the ink to smudge a bit when it comes apart. So I'm exploring adjustments with the off-contact in hopes it helps me there. any suggestions if my paper is constantly getting stuck to the screen? or what that might mean?
Hi Robert! I'm glad you are keeping at it. Don't get too down on yourself if you have issues, it definitely takes a while and I had the good fortune of having an in person tutor! With that in mind, I was curious what frame you were using? If the screen is not taut enough, the vinyl might have trouble sticking to it and could be a source of issues. The main issue with paper getting stuck to the screen is the weight of the paper vs. the stickiness and amount of the ink (I think...) If you either use a slightly tacky surface for your paper, heavier paper, or lighter ink, it shouldn't stick to the screen. Printer paper is very light and not very absorbent and so has been the type of paper I have had the most issues with in the past. You can also create a frame to slide the paper into on the corners that could help keep it down after you print and cause it to separate easier with less smudging. Also, the screen should not be sitting directly on the paper. What I mean by that (and something not covered in the video unfortunately) is that the hinges create an 1/8th inch gap or so at the top of the screen and little shims taped to the screen on the bottom corners create that gap on the bottom. The screen, when flat, should lay slightly above the surface of the paper, and the downward pressure should bring it in to contact and then spring back up after the ink transfers. I hope I am explaining this enough, but its kind of part of the minutiae that the video doesn't really go into detail on. Please ask for more clarification and I will see what I can do if you need it.
Sure, there are two other videos that lead up to this video. Check out the playlist. Also, if you can be more specific about what parts you need help with, I can be more specific about how I did it!
this is how I did my first year on etsy for screen printing.. very cost effective but I then moved to HTV. less mistakes. less variables! less stress! packing tape would have been easier for me to use!!!! I used painter's tape.
Cool technique with the mylar for placement reference! What kind of vinyl do you use? permanent vinyl (like 651)? I tried using a regular Cricut vinyl, and it wouldn't adhere to the screen. Any advice is appreciated (in advance).
Hey! We do use 651! I have found that some screens work better than others. As you can see in the video, we currently are using aluminum screens. I tried using one of the wooden frames that come with the beginner kits (that a student brought in) and the vinyl would not adhere to it very well at all. I don't know if it has to do with the material, the tautness, or what, but I would suggest trying a screen like you see in the video. You can search for them pretty easily by typing in Aluminum Screen Printing Frame. Should get you some results!
Hey Rajesh, The vinyl should peel off easily and then you just wash the screen under water and probably use some Ink remover. We use Speedball Screen Cleaner.
how did you get your own image to be cut out of the vinyl? I have a cameo silhouette vinyl cutter but am having trouble cutting out my own images. I also have a pixscan but am also having trouble with the registration part. please help
We just use Fabric Ink either from Speedball or an off brand. We have only had trouble with the fluorescent colors since they get all goopy when you print with them. We don't use plasticene ink so there is not a heat setting needed. We just air dry (and I recommend using an iron when they get home or drying in the dryer before a wash).
Great video have you ever had trouble with the small pieces coming off of the screen?and how many shirts can you get out of the vinyl before changing it?
Hi Jimmy! I have had that problem a few times in the past. It normally only happens when the pieces are extremely small or the adhesive gets compromised somehow. In general though, it doesn't happen very often. You can see in the video that there are some fairly small pieces in the Cat Napoleon's face and shoulder tassel triangle things ;) and they stayed on just fine. I have done several dozen prints before with a single screen. It helps if you are set up well beforehand with all of your printing supplies nearby in easy reach and a spot to dry also nearby. The longer you wait between prints, the more likely clogs are to form.
thank you for the advice.it seems easier than using emulsions and all the other steps involed. im trying to learn as many different techniques as possible and this looks like the easiest way for me having a small company where I will need to eventually learn screen printing.thank you for the advice
Want an easier way to print with vinyl without having to change yoir stencil every 3 prints...use a thing called magic cover,or basically the stuff you buy at the dollar store to line cabinets or drawers.it sticks better.
Thanks for this!! There's so many screen printing videos on here with douchey guys using thousand dollar machines when I was just looking for something simple like this.
I am new to screen printing I’m still studying so can start my clothing line business thank you very much for this video I learn a lot of information about vinyl screen printing.
I think using vinyl is just a shortcut process for single color use. Nothing replaces actual emulsion for reusing screens in the way you want to do it.
Hi Marina! We almost never do more than one color with the same screen. Unfortunately, Tuffenough4u is correct that emulsion is really the best way to keep your screen and design intact between cleanings. However, we have had some luck with a couple of methods for switching colors. The first is just putting in new ink and starting to print until the old ink is gone and the new ink is all that remains. You can get some cool marbled looking prints this way as the color changes but you have to be OK with the colors running together a bit. The second is to use something like simple green or a similar cleaner with paper towels only on the inside of the screen to clean off as much of the paint as possible. Then you do several prints onto a test material until the screen prints cleanly and you can begin printing on your actual material.
What kind of vinyl? I can't grasp the way the ink is coming onto the short. Is there a hole where the design is for the ink to come through or does it require a special transfer sheet to make the screen in?
it's an aluminum frame. i hadn't bought one in years, but they were about $25-30 online. just google screenprinting frames and you'll probably find what you're looking for. then you have to choose the mesh count, the higher the count the more threads there are and the more detail you can do. it's been a long time, but i think we use something like 155 thread count or something like that, but we used emulsion, too, in which case it becomes important. something like those prints it really isn't worth stressing over.
Thanks for the video - very informative. I did have a question for you. What is that goggle clamp system you used to attach your screen to the work surface? I need that in my life. :)
Yeah, I would think so. It might be hard over a curved surface though. If you were doing one off graphics for a skateboard, you could just make a sticker with the Silhouette Cameo.
Hey, sorry for the delay in response. I believe we use "12 in. x 150 ft. Self-Adhesive Clear Masking & Transfer Film" although I have used a couple different types and haven't really had a problem!
Many thanks for reply, I should have asked what 'tack' application tape are you using, low, medium or high or is it not really an issue?. Again many many thanks
Hi Jonathon! Unfortunately, the tack doesn't seem to be listed on any of the transfer tape we normally order so I can't be sure! I think I have used medium and low tack transfer tape. I would be a little wary of high tack as the screen is less responsive to the vinyl than say, a metal cabinet or a piece of glass that you would normally be putting the designs onto.
So for normal heat transfer with vinyl you usually flip he image. With screen printing do you want to still flip it or leave it “normal” asking for wording.
Looks good, I suggest you flip the design upside down and then use a sheet of hardboard cut to fit a shirt you slide on. This positions the shirt and stretches it out slightly so you don't need to worry about it being flat. Put the hardboard shirt guide on hinges so it can flip up and the shirt slide on. I ad some sections of hardboard around the parameter of the hardboard guide to the outer edges of the screen rest on those and keep the screen at the same height as the shirt. These are just nigly little details though, what ever works.
This is my favorite screen printing tutorial I've seen so far because it gives me a real idea of what I would be able to do myself without needing a printer or anything too fancy. I always loving doing things a little low tech in such a high tech world we live in now, gotta have balance.
Glad you found it helpful!
OMG YESSSSSS Thank you for that. I was dreading having to burn my screens...but I have plenty of vinyl and a plotter cutter yay!!!!!!
Excellent. Been looking up ways to make a screen and this seems to be the easiest way. Thanks for sharing!
This is a super effective method of stencil creation for people that don't have a print studio you can also use paper stencils and they will adhere to the mesh after the first print. Check out my new print tutorial videos on my channel. How to screen print for cheap help you make a screen with emulsion without the use of any equipment.
Very cool tutorial. A lot of people do this. Especially sign makers ;) It's a spin off of a paper stencil. You can do the same thing with a paper stencil and spray tack to keep the image parts in place. The only difference is you would have to manually place the lose parts of the image. But you can actually do a lot with a 1 piece paper stencil using only the ink to keep it adhered to the screen. Come get some Catspit~!
Yeah! My co-worker and I were thinking about trying that method as well at some point. Might be even easier and faster to clean up! Thanks for the reminder suggestion!
You're very welcome. People still use them to do athletic numbering too. You can even cut paper stencils on a plotter or by hand. Good luck!
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Please let me know what the name of that red film? It is a red film or sticker? I want to know please.. thank you 😊..
Raquel Montejo Senarillos vinyl
"WOW" ... This is SOOO SMART!!!! My friend had a silk screening business... and she was always having to "Burn" her images... I always wondered if there was an easier way... This is a great tutorial... Thank you... and Thank you for NOT having annoying music in the background!!! I want to hear you... not the music interfering with the tutorial... :)
Judi Christopher lol. You are right in target with the music comment. Oh that is annoying.
Again I say... This is sooo smart... Why in the world do they do it the other way!!! ;)
this isn't a new method, it has been around for decades (it's a stencil method). you can use this for making simple designs of one color and little details. if you need more colors more details and a more photo realistic image. you do it "The other way"
Thanks so much! We needed to use a method that would be easier to clean up since we are working in a Library and not a print studio. We have done multi-color prints with layers and overlaps and it worked just great. I would say though that burning the images (if you have a dark room and a way to power wash the screens for reuse) creates a much more detailed image. However, this is a pretty easy and fun introduction that has gotten a lot of our students interested in printmaking!
Use a permanent type of vinyl. The vinyl with removable adhesive is loosened with consecutive uses.
Thank you! You answered so many questions that I had in only 6:56 minutes. I will be trying a two color design for my band, if you have any advice would greatly appreciate it.
awesome tutorial! the base with clamps is a great tool, and that mylar sheet is such a simple trick for lining up the image. thanks for the tips.
Hello, great video and shot very well. I don't want to sound negative with my comment, so please take this as constructive. When we first started printing we tried this method of weeding out the sticker and then putting it on our custom frames. The only problem is if you have fine detail as you weed the vinyl, you can sometimes cause the fine lines to be out of place ever so slightly and that can cause your print to look like it wasn't registered properly when in fact you might have your multiple colors lined up perfect. I'd recommend using emulsion and its way easier and cost effective versus vinyl. Not to mention it's much faster. If you don't want to invest into a vacuum exposure unit, you can get away with using (1) 500 W halogen flood light and it will expose your emulsion. You just have to figure out how long your exposure times take. You can find these things called exposure calculators online and they are very handy to have. wish you luck on your endeavors!
Thanks for the suggestion! I work for the Chicago Public Library and we happen to work out of a space without the capability to run a dark room or use a power washer. We wanted to be able to screen print despite those restrictions so we began using this method instead. For a while we were working with a local print shop that would create our screens for us but the lag time was just too much and our students were too impatient :D I definitely agree that this method is less capable of doing multi-color prints in great detail but with careful registration we have been able to accomplish some pretty cool multi screen prints despite that.
OMGOSH! I just got a cricut and YOUR VIDEO, JUST CHANGED MY LIFE!!! You’re the MAN!!! BIG THANK YOU!!!! I greatly appreciate you sharing this knowledge!
Really wish I had seen this video a couple of years ago. Makes the process so much quicker. Thanks.
I like your table, explain how you made it, please?
Hey, sorry, have not been keeping tabs on this like I should! My coworker created the screen board, but its pretty simple: just wood and some clamps. If you look up "Speedball Hinge Clamps For Screen Printing" you can find the type of materials he used!
This is a perfect video for me as I have a cricut at home. Just need to know where to get those hinges
Almost any Home Improvement store will sell hinges.
Really liked your video! I just finished doing my first screen print with vinyl and it went pretty well but when I went to clean up I washed the screen and the vinyl instantly fell off and I lost a couple small pieces down the drain. My question is how to you remove the vinyl from the screen prior to washing? Won't the paint get stuck to the vinyl making it difficult to reuse? Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!
Yeah, we don't reuse the vinyl sadly. If you want a screen that will keep the same image on it for multiple printing sessions, you likely need to reapply it or get it burned.
What I suggest is scanning your original design, given that it was made on a physical surface (paper, canvas, what have you) & save it as a digital copy. Doing so will allow you to polish any imperfections & you will never have to worry ab losing that "one perfect design." Hope that helped
you did not show a finished shirt ?
what vinyl and transfer tape did you use ? I have silhouette transfer tape and vinyl from Amazon & the small details of the design will not stick on the transfer paper . Need major help .
What kind of vinyl and transfer tape did you use? I used 651 and siser transfer tape and spent about an hour trying to get the transfer tape off the screen with out pulling the vinyl up also 😭
Amazing details. I really want to try this but not sure I want to out the money out on the off chance I hate it or suck at making designs since my art skills are not amazing
Greetings from London UK. You must have a good cutter as those small bits would come off. Anyway I have lost my software dongle and to get the same software again would cost me £400. As i only want to do sign painting with basic lettering can you recommend a cheaper software. Good work.
You guys are awesome! Learned a lot watching your video. THANKS SOO MUCH!! :)
I liked the way you used that mylar positioning technique. never seen that before and seemed to work A-OK
+Mike Leonard Yeah, my coworker Jeff showed me that trick. Quick and easy registration technique that works surprisingly well, even for dual layer/color prints.
What vinyl cutter do you use?
Thanks for this - what a really cool method for screen printing although the last half of the video is a blur cause I fell in love at 4:55 which broke my concentration.
hah, I am very unclear what this means. but uhh, glad you like the first 4.5 minutes?!
how did you get the design on the vinyl?
hello if you have questions about screen printing feel free to contact me. I work at a screen printing shop so I know alot about the subject thanks. as for your method with the vinal. it's great keep in mind that with higher detail images a higher mesh count screen will help better but makes putting ink thru it more difficult
john Hoon Hi I want to print a design on a denim jacket. How could I do this? Sorry I'm very new to this
radicalkills hello what all do you have? is a very important question
john Hoon Um sorry what do you mean?
do you have screens? squeezes? plastisol inks? air dry inks?
Hello john, I tried to do this but every time I use transfer tape, it sticks so hard to the vinyl that it doesn't separate? Can you help?
NOTE.! USE GOOD QUALITY VINYL.! Also recommend sitting out in the sun for 5 mins if it's a hot day just to stick better, he says it doesn't come up but I have have so many problems with the technique, but I use watersol, plastisol might be different idk
Rapture Kicks what type of vinyl do you find works best with watersol? I’m having issues with my vinyl coming up when I’m inking
Okay so my wife and i started a business personalizing decorations and making various things and in alot of cases the images id be making are only used once would would i be able to use this method efficiently without tearing up screens if i was to set up and use once and then change out vinyl multiple times a day for single color designs ive never screen printed at all but it look like a superior method to stencils and paint they always seem very hit and miss
Yup, you can reuse the screen after removing the vinyl. It is actually very good and pretty quick way to change stencils on screens. Just make sure you are removing the ink between prints.
Great video! Do you use a special kind of printer that cuts into the vinyl?
How do you dry the shirts after
What do you put inside the shirt so it won't go through to the back? It didn't look like there was anything between the front and the back.
We use fairly thick t-shirts to print so we don't really have any issues with bleeding. If you need to put something between the front and back, you can just get a piece of cardboard (non-corrugated) or a shirt form to put in there. Even a few pieces of paper would likely stop the ink from bleeding through. You just have to make sure it is a flat enough surface to avoid leaving an impression on the print.
I hear you say flip it horizontal. do you mean when printing it, you have to flip the image horizontal so that it will come out the proper way?
Yeah, so the design needs to be flipped to look "backwards." The reason is that, as you can see when I apply it to the screen, I am putting it on the bottom of the screen. That way, the ink passes through and creates a design that is legible. Its really most important with text, but if you want your design to look exactly like you created it to begin with, you need to cut a flipped version to put on the screen.
@@professionalmatty The image (and especially text) needs to be mirrored!!
So essentially it comes down to the cost of a vinyl printer ($300) and either heat pressing multiple pieces of vinyl (with an added $200 heat press) or using one piece of vinyl + the cost of emulsion (Screen printing supplies). Although with this technique you could just purchase one pre-cut piece of vinyl and save a few hundred... Nice...
Vinyl as negative for screen print? It'll only last few shirts, it wont hold that long if it gets wet by paint. So its not recommended if youre printing bulk orders of more than 5 shirts. 👎🏻👎🏻
Nice very helpful. Can you do multicolor.
quit calling it paint -- it's ink. i don't know of many, if any, pros who actually use that 'air-dry' stuff, most consider it hobby quality because if you don't actually cure it afterwards it'll crack and has a heavy hand.
thank u for the idea... huhhuu... always mess with screen printing.. anyway.. can i just use sticker paper instead vinyl?
Im not sure. Ive never tried that.
Do I need to use any certain type of vinyl to get the vinyl to stick to the screen?
As someone who has worked in the vinyl department of a sign shop AND at a screen printing shop, this video triggers me. So much done wrong here. Terrible.
great tutorial, thanks! I just started to use this method and have been running into issues keeping the screen flooded. my assumption is the vinyl - while blocking the ink from getting to the paper - is still allowing it through the screen, trapping/losing it behind the vinyl. I started noticing the stencil deteriorated quickly (like after 15-ish). have you had any issues with this? how long do they typical last? do you find you have to use more or less ink? any suggestions would appreciated. I don't quite have the set-up for emulsion use, which is why I'm exploring alternatives. thanks!
Hi Robert! I'm not sure what to tell you on this one. :( I have used a single screen to do several dozen prints before so I have not had this problem or had to work through it. How is your stencil deteriorating? A couple of things to check for larger print jobs: make sure you are printing quickly. Set out all of your materials beforehand so they are easy to get to and easy to set aside after. Having a helper is great for this! The longer you take between prints, the more likely the screen is to get clogged. Also, make sure you are using good ink and possibly ink extender for extended print jobs. The longer the paint sits out, the less liquidity and elasticity it has and the more likely it is to clog. Also, it sounds like maybe your vinyl is not sticking to the screen that well? Does it adhere well or is it floating loosely?
thanks for the response! first things first - I think I suck at silk screening! trying to get better, but it's a work in progress. that learning curve is definitely causing me some problems here. as for your comment on the vinyl, I definitely think it could be an issue. it's adhering smoothly to the screen and there are no bubbles or anything but it seems to be a little thin and less tacky than it should be. I'm going to try using the oracal vinyl as you used in this tutorial and see if I have any more luck with that brand. I'm hoping it helps.
I'm also finding that my paper is getting stuck to the screen which is causing the ink to smudge a bit when it comes apart. So I'm exploring adjustments with the off-contact in hopes it helps me there. any suggestions if my paper is constantly getting stuck to the screen? or what that might mean?
Hi Robert! I'm glad you are keeping at it. Don't get too down on yourself if you have issues, it definitely takes a while and I had the good fortune of having an in person tutor! With that in mind, I was curious what frame you were using? If the screen is not taut enough, the vinyl might have trouble sticking to it and could be a source of issues.
The main issue with paper getting stuck to the screen is the weight of the paper vs. the stickiness and amount of the ink (I think...) If you either use a slightly tacky surface for your paper, heavier paper, or lighter ink, it shouldn't stick to the screen. Printer paper is very light and not very absorbent and so has been the type of paper I have had the most issues with in the past. You can also create a frame to slide the paper into on the corners that could help keep it down after you print and cause it to separate easier with less smudging. Also, the screen should not be sitting directly on the paper. What I mean by that (and something not covered in the video unfortunately) is that the hinges create an 1/8th inch gap or so at the top of the screen and little shims taped to the screen on the bottom corners create that gap on the bottom. The screen, when flat, should lay slightly above the surface of the paper, and the downward pressure should bring it in to contact and then spring back up after the ink transfers. I hope I am explaining this enough, but its kind of part of the minutiae that the video doesn't really go into detail on. Please ask for more clarification and I will see what I can do if you need it.
Nice... please show to your followers to ironing with heat and dry the ink in the shirt...That´s the most difficult part.
Do you have a video of how you set up your little station? I have a plotter. But I like your set up, I'd like to try it out...
Sure, there are two other videos that lead up to this video. Check out the playlist. Also, if you can be more specific about what parts you need help with, I can be more specific about how I did it!
Would the vinyl ruin the screen or does it come right off?
this is how I did my first year on etsy for screen printing.. very cost effective but I then moved to HTV. less mistakes. less variables! less stress!
packing tape would have been easier for me to use!!!! I used painter's tape.
Cassandra blass
What is your Etsy shop?
Are you saying you use HTV for your screens or use it for your final designs?
@@808mup final designs
you are the man great video and image
Cool technique with the mylar for placement reference! What kind of vinyl do you use? permanent vinyl (like 651)? I tried using a regular Cricut vinyl, and it wouldn't adhere to the screen. Any advice is appreciated (in advance).
Hey! We do use 651!
I have found that some screens work better than others. As you can see in the video, we currently are using aluminum screens. I tried using one of the wooden frames that come with the beginner kits (that a student brought in) and the vinyl would not adhere to it very well at all. I don't know if it has to do with the material, the tautness, or what, but I would suggest trying a screen like you see in the video. You can search for them pretty easily by typing in Aluminum Screen Printing Frame. Should get you some results!
how to remove that vinyl and use another on vinyl on screen please so us that process
Hey Rajesh,
The vinyl should peel off easily and then you just wash the screen under water and probably use some Ink remover. We use Speedball Screen Cleaner.
We’re could I find does clamps?
ebay - search for screen print clamps
hello, can i easily buy that kind of tape you transfer your stencil?
how did you get your own image to be cut out of the vinyl? I have a cameo silhouette vinyl cutter but am having trouble cutting out my own images. I also have a pixscan but am also having trouble with the registration part. please help
Hey Samantha,
I would recommend watching the videos in the playlist that lead up to this one! Also, feel free to email me with specific questions.
Do you clean and re-use the mylar sheets and what type would you recommend getting?
Yes! Probably 4 mil, and anything that is translucent enough to see where the design is landing on the shirt under it.
How did you make the vinyl cut tho
Thank you so much 🥲❤️
what kind of ink are you using? And how do you heat set it after you print on the t shirt?
We just use Fabric Ink either from Speedball or an off brand. We have only had trouble with the fluorescent colors since they get all goopy when you print with them. We don't use plasticene ink so there is not a heat setting needed. We just air dry (and I recommend using an iron when they get home or drying in the dryer before a wash).
Great video have you ever had trouble with the small pieces coming off of the screen?and how many shirts can you get out of the vinyl before changing it?
Hi Jimmy! I have had that problem a few times in the past. It normally only happens when the pieces are extremely small or the adhesive gets compromised somehow. In general though, it doesn't happen very often. You can see in the video that there are some fairly small pieces in the Cat Napoleon's face and shoulder tassel triangle things ;) and they stayed on just fine.
I have done several dozen prints before with a single screen. It helps if you are set up well beforehand with all of your printing supplies nearby in easy reach and a spot to dry also nearby. The longer you wait between prints, the more likely clogs are to form.
thank you for the advice.it seems easier than using emulsions and all the other steps involed. im trying to learn as many different techniques as possible and this looks like the easiest way for me having a small company where I will need to eventually learn screen printing.thank you for the advice
No problem Jimmy! Glad to be of help!
very nice. what is the vinyl called and where to buy them thank you.
How do people do photographic detailed images onto screen prints? Like Warhol did?
Emulsion.
i really like it . please what is the name of your screen board Locks
did you use water based or plastisol ink? and can you use plastisol?
This is so awesome. Thanks heaps for breaking it down so easy. Cant wait to get started!!
How well does the oracal stick when you’re washing the paint off the screen?
Hi, I was wondering if you have to cure the ink after?
What size is your metal frame, what size mesh? are the hinges on amazon thank you thats a very cost efficient method for begginers
Want an easier way to print with vinyl without having to change yoir stencil every 3 prints...use a thing called magic cover,or basically the stuff you buy at the dollar store to line cabinets or drawers.it sticks better.
Thanks for this!! There's so many screen printing videos on here with douchey guys using thousand dollar machines when I was just looking for something simple like this.
Um... that color ink did not look good on those colors of t-shirts.
I am new to screen printing I’m still studying so can start my clothing line business thank you very much for this video I learn a lot of information about vinyl screen printing.
Rhanks for the nice tutorial video:
paint is for walls, you screen print with ink.
Ink kon c use krni hai
any suggestions on cleaning the screen to use another color?
without damaging the vinyl?
I think using vinyl is just a shortcut process for single color use. Nothing replaces actual emulsion for reusing screens in the way you want to do it.
Hi Marina! We almost never do more than one color with the same screen. Unfortunately, Tuffenough4u is correct that emulsion is really the best way to keep your screen and design intact between cleanings. However, we have had some luck with a couple of methods for switching colors. The first is just putting in new ink and starting to print until the old ink is gone and the new ink is all that remains. You can get some cool marbled looking prints this way as the color changes but you have to be OK with the colors running together a bit. The second is to use something like simple green or a similar cleaner with paper towels only on the inside of the screen to clean off as much of the paint as possible. Then you do several prints onto a test material until the screen prints cleanly and you can begin printing on your actual material.
Great video. Is it special silk screen vinyl or will sign vinyl work. I already have a vinyl cutter. Thanks Glyn
omg this was sooooooooo usefull, thank you so much!
Can you wash these to use a different color?
I believe so!
What kind of vinyl? I can't grasp the way the ink is coming onto the short. Is there a hole where the design is for the ink to come through or does it require a special transfer sheet to make the screen in?
How many prints can you do with this tecnique? Would it last longer if you reversed the image and placed it at the downside of the screen?
Is the vinyl permanent or removable
What kind of screen do you use and where can I buy one
it's an aluminum frame. i hadn't bought one in years, but they were about $25-30 online. just google screenprinting frames and you'll probably find what you're looking for. then you have to choose the mesh count, the higher the count the more threads there are and the more detail you can do. it's been a long time, but i think we use something like 155 thread count or something like that, but we used emulsion, too, in which case it becomes important. something like those prints it really isn't worth stressing over.
Thanks for the video - very informative. I did have a question for you. What is that goggle clamp system you used to attach your screen to the work surface? I need that in my life. :)
Speedball Screen Printing Clamps.
did the paint grow through the shirt? I noticed you didn't put anything in between the shirt..
Could this be used to put on wood/ for skateboard graphics???
Yeah, I would think so. It might be hard over a curved surface though. If you were doing one off graphics for a skateboard, you could just make a sticker with the Silhouette Cameo.
does anyone see the reflection of mario kart at 5:07 ? lol
Hah, I have never noticed that before! Good eye.
Hello
That was dope!
Need color name n screen sheet name
Transfer tape is expensive. Just use a roll of masking tape. Works the same
If you're cutting vinyl, why not just use a heat press?
Hi, could I please ask what application transfer tape you are using? Many thanks.
Hey, sorry for the delay in response. I believe we use "12 in. x 150 ft. Self-Adhesive Clear Masking & Transfer Film" although I have used a couple different types and haven't really had a problem!
Many thanks for reply, I should have asked what 'tack' application tape are you using, low, medium or high or is it not really an issue?. Again many many thanks
Hi Jonathon! Unfortunately, the tack doesn't seem to be listed on any of the transfer tape we normally order so I can't be sure! I think I have used medium and low tack transfer tape. I would be a little wary of high tack as the screen is less responsive to the vinyl than say, a metal cabinet or a piece of glass that you would normally be putting the designs onto.
Crazy tutorial.. Its verry nice.... Im from indonesian.. Thanks so much
I don't know why nobody talks about this method for low budget starting business. No much equipment needed and very affordable to do.
Can you use pretty much any vinyl for doing this or is it best to use a specific type
We use Oracal 651. It works well. For some reason, I find that the glossy vinyl adheres to the screen more than the matte. No idea why.
Best i have ever seen thanks❤
So for normal heat transfer with vinyl you usually flip he image. With screen printing do you want to still flip it or leave it “normal” asking for wording.
Bonsoire comment s'appelle se papier rouge merci
Printing Shoha 😢
You waste materials
Awesome. Thanks!!
Looks good, I suggest you flip the design upside down and then use a sheet of hardboard cut to fit a shirt you slide on. This positions the shirt and stretches it out slightly so you don't need to worry about it being flat. Put the hardboard shirt guide on hinges so it can flip up and the shirt slide on. I ad some sections of hardboard around the parameter of the hardboard guide to the outer edges of the screen rest on those and keep the screen at the same height as the shirt. These are just nigly little details though, what ever works.
what type of vinyl are you using??
We use Oracal vinyl. You can get it from all kinds of places. I think we order most of ours from Inventables or Amazon.
recientemente se ha inventado la espátula para colocar transfer
Mylar registration...totally facepalmed myself. Simply and brilliant.
Why not just use adhesive vinyl for decals