To screen print at home, you'll need the following materials:
-Screen printing frame (you can purchase one online or make your own)
-Frame adhesive
-Light-blocking tape
-Photo emulsion
-Sensitizer
-Transparency film
-Squeegee
-Your chosen fabric ink
-Fabric to print on
Step 1: Preparing Your Frame
The first step is to prepare your frame. Start by removing any excess adhesive from the edges of the frame using a razor blade. Then, apply a thin layer of frame adhesive around the perimeter of the frame. Next, use light-blocking tape to secure a piece of transparency film over the top of the frame. Be sure to smooth out any air bubbles that may have formed.
Once your frame is prepped, it's time to move on to step 2.
The next step is to apply the photo emulsion to your frame. First, mix together equal parts sensitizer and photo emulsion in a plastic container. Then, using a brush or roller, apply an even layer of the mixture to your frame. Make sure to completely cover the transparency film. Once you've applied the photo emulsion, set your frame aside in a dark area so that it can exposed for 12-24 hours.
After your frame has been properly exposed, move on to step 3.
Step 3: Removing the Photo Emulsion
After exposure, remove the photo emulsion from your frame using cool water and a soft brush. Be sure not to scrub too hard as this can damage the mesh on your screen printing frame. Once all of the photo emulsion has been removed, allow your frame to dry completely before moving on to step 4.
Now for the fun part - actually printing your fabric! Before you start, lay out your fabric on a flat surface and smooth out any wrinkles or creases. Once you're satisfied with how your fabric looks, place your screen printing frame on top of it so that the mesh side is facing down. Next, use your squeegee to apply ink evenly over the top of your screen printing frame. Make sure that you apply enough pressure so that ink comes through all areas of the mesh on your frame - you may need to go over some areas multiple times if necessary.
Once you're satisfied with how your print looks, carefully remove your screen printing frame and allow your fabric to dry completely before wearing or washing it!
Conclusion: And there you have it - a complete guide to screen printing at home! With just a few supplies and some patience, you'll be able to create professional looking prints in no time at all. So what are you waiting for? Give it a try today!