How much space do I need around my image for off contact printing?
I have one image that is 14.5in by 11in, what size screen should I use?
The other one is 12in by 10in , what size screen for this one?
I was doing on contact before I got a press. Just laying the screen on the shirt. Those screens don't work in the press because I didn't leave much space aroung them (about an inch or so).
I searched for the answer and didn't find it.
I am learning so much here and really appreciate the info and responses.
How much space do I need around my image for off contact printing?
I have one image that is 14.5in by 11in, what size screen should I use?
The other one is 12in by 10in , what size screen for this one?
I was doing on contact before I got a press. Just laying the screen on the shirt. Those screens don't work in the press because I didn't leave much space aroung them (about an inch or so).
Off-contact distance
Mesh tension
Blade spring rate
As you press down with a blade, you stretch the mesh, distort the image, increase the mesh tension. Because the blade receives different resistance, IT BENDS DIFFERENTLY and the blade transfers a different amount of ink through the mesh.
It is the job of the mesh to pull itself out of the ink film.
Higher mesh tension, lower off-contact and stiff blades yields the best prints.
The safest 'margin' around your image is at least 4" on all four sides. Less, and you will distort the image.
__________________
How are you measuring? retired Ulano Technical Support Screen printing since 1979 - SGIA Academy Member
Off-contact distance
Mesh tension
Blade spring rate
As you press down with a blade, you stretch the mesh, distort the image, increase the mesh tension. Because the blade receives different resistance, IT BENDS DIFFERENTLY and the blade transfers a different amount of ink through the mesh.
It is the job of the mesh to pull itself out of the ink film.
Higher mesh tension, lower off-contact and stiff blades yields the best prints.
The safest 'margin' around your image is at least 4" on all four sides. Less, and you will distort the image.
Ouch. Does that mean for an 11 x 15 size image you should have an OD screen size of 22 x 26 in other words Image size + 11 on length and width" (4" on one side + 4" on the other + 3" for the frame)?
Ouch. Does that mean for an 11 x 15 size image you should have an OD screen size of 22 x 26
in other words Image size + 11 on length and width" (4" on one side + 4" on the other + 3" for the frame)?
IF, you want no distortion.
Millions of printers live with distorted prints every day. Many don't care - they want to save money, and things work out just fine for them. If you are having peel problems, uneven deposit, poor deposit, ripped screens - more open mesh area is how you could solve those problems.
Printers with automatic presses can't tip-toe as they stroke, and are used to the extra space.
It also helps to use a stiffer squeegee blade which won't be as effected by mesh resistance as a soft blade.
__________________
How are you measuring? retired Ulano Technical Support Screen printing since 1979 - SGIA Academy Member
Last edited by RichardGreaves; November 1st, 2007 at 08:59 AM.
Space around image on screen 
