[nelly]

Hello All,

I am currently making my own screens at home for screenprinting. I was just wondering if you could give me an idea of what method you use to stretch the mesh over the screens to get the best stretch tension?? What DIY methods are there??

Many Thanks
Jon

 

[INKFREAK]

Hi there Jon, I have to say that it is much easier to just buy the screens pre-stretched then doing it your-self.You can also buy retensionable frames from suppliers.It's just to expensive to stretch wood frame your self.You need to many supplies to do wood frames unless you are a high volume shop.Look into neuman roller frames and some other manufactures out there.Other people might have more info on different companys,but I've always used Neumans.
To stretch wood frames to a high enough tension will require you to buy a stretch system that will cost 1500.00.I never seem them used for sale because they are in high demand.Plus the cost of the mesh,glue etc.How many screens could you buy with that amount of cash?Like I said unless you go through wood frame like toliet paper , stick to buying them or buy retensionable frames.

 

[fdsales]

Actually you can purchase aluminum frames for just about the same price as wood frames, and they last forever. No warping, corners are welded, and generally they can hold higher screen tensions. If the mesh tears or gets worn out, just send them (wood or aluminum) off to get re-stretched.

 

[wormil]

Last time I made my own wood screens was over twenty years ago. We fastened two sides then my buddy would pull as hard as he could while I fastened the other side. I don't recommend it. Instead I recommend just buying screens. You can get 18x20 wood screens, your choice of mesh size, for less than $15.

 

[Solmu]

There are pretty much two cheap/DIY ways,
1) Pull by hand, staple in place
2) Buy a retionsable frame larger than the screens you're making, and use it as a home made stretching device
Neither is preferable to just buying pre-made professional screens.