has or does anybody use homemade screens for t-shirts? i'd like to start screen printing (just for fun) but i really don't have the cash to buy all the nice equipment. i found an article online about homemade screens and thought i might give it a try. if anyone has experience with this i would love to here your input.
Thanks!
When you say "homemade" do you mean making your own frame, and applying mesh, or using something makeshift like an embroidery hoop?
Personally I think they don't save much money (unless you don't even use the proper mesh), screens aren't particularly expensive, and you're better off buying professional screens.
Thanks for reply Solmu! I should have been more clear. I was talking about making wood frames then applying the mesh. I thought this would be a good inexpensive way to learn screen printing. can you get descent results making single color text and logo designs?
can you get descent results making single color text and logo designs?
Yes. Hand stretched mesh (obviously) won't be as tight as a professionally stretched frame (so you wouldn't want to use it for anything but loosely registered prints for example), but you can make a screen good enough to use by hand. Using it for just single colour is definitely a good idea.
Price it out vs. professional screens though. If it ends up saving you a lot of money, it should work fine. But if it's not much of a saving anyway, you might as well buy pre-stretched frames.
I would agree with Solmu, take a look at buying pre-stretched screens. I used to stretch my own and by the time you buy the wood, mesh, rope or staples you will probably have spent as much as a pre-stretched screen. You can get pre-strethed screens with 110- 156 for 17-20 dollars.
i just started out myself and i have been making my own. i have had some real good luck with types of mesh i find in fabric stores. i just take the time to find 1 that i feel will work for the print needed. its been a hit & miss but its getting better. i also rigged something up to get that tension needed. The finished product is looking good and only getting better. I've built a 20x17 screen for less than $5. "IF THERE IS A WILL, THERE IS A WAY"
I USE 1.5" X 1.5" X 8' that i pick up at Home Depot for $1.59 & check Walmart for some mesh. That will run $1.50-$5 a yard, it all depends on what u find. Try checking the sheer color rolls, just make sure its polyester, next get some wood glue , 3" wood screws, staple gun & your favored craft glue & and your good to go. the rest should come as u fine tune your build.
Question About Homemade Screens 
