deeromero12

So, im new to the silk screening biz.. instead of buying the equipment, i wanted to first try out the whole process by making a lot of the equipment myself. so, i made the screen using the frame of an old painting frame and mesh that i bought from walmart (don't know exactly what material it is or what the mesh count is) and just stretched and stapled the mesh to the frame. i get the concept of the process. but my frame keeps getting clogged up after my first swipe through. so i can't even do a second shirt. im using jacquard ink. do you think the problem is with the screen? maybe im not using the right fabric for the screen. or could it be with the paint? should i be using another chemical, like a retardant?
i really enjoy making designs for tshirts, but the printing is where the frustration sets in. please help me.. im so lost.

 

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CrossYourHeart

Yeah, just buy a pre-stretched screen. They're like $20 or you could find some used ones online for even cheaper.

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gerry

Screens from a pic frame and walmart mesh isnt what you need at all. save some buck, find a supplier and start off on the right foot.
Alot can be done with basic diy equipment and it all need to be done right. a good aluminum screen can be had for about 40-50 dollars. what your trying will give pretty bad results.

 

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Pwear

To build the right equipment, you must first know what you need to build! You have the theory right, but not the practice. Some things like the actual press can be figured out, but certain aspects of printing require knowledge about the process in order to build it correctly. Screen mesh for printing comes in various mesh counts, and is made from specific material and stretched to specific tensions. You can stretch your own screens, but for starting out you'll do better by buying a pre-stretched screen and learning to print first, then start to look at making your own.

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deeromero12

Thanks!! im definately gonna buy an actual screen for my future projects. do you think my problems are with my screen?? i ordered a retarder online. do you think that might help with the drying/clogging??

 

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