Screen Printing is FUN!!

I love all art forms and wish I could practice them all!

One of the forms I really am getting into lately is screen printing. It is a fun and relatively easy way to add your own personal touch to clothing and other items.

With a few simple supplies, you can screen print right at home.

Here's what you'll need:

• The surface you are using- FYI: Common surfaces used in screen printing are paper and fabric, but metal, wood, and plastic can also be used

• Screen printing ink

• A screen printing squeegee

• A screen printing frame

• A light box (optional)

Instructions:

1. If you're using a design that you created, you'll need to create a stencil. You can do this by tracing your design onto a piece of transparency film and then using an X-Acto knife to cut out the design.

2. If you're using a design that you found online, make sure that you can actually use it- we want to make sure that any artisit who is putting out art is properly compensated, even if it is for your personal use.

3. Tape your stencil to the screen printing frame.

4. Apply ink to the screen using a brayer (a small hand roller)

5. Use the squeegee to push the ink through the screen and onto the surface.

6. Peel off the stencil and admire your work!

Tips:

• If you're new to screen printing, it's a good idea to practice on a piece of scrap before you start working on your final project.

• If you want to add multiple colors to your design, you'll need to create a new stencil for each color.

• You can use screen printing ink to print on other fabrics as well, such as cotton, polyester, and nylon.

With a little practice, you'll be screen printing like a pro in no time!

Want to know more about screenprinting and support a small female founded business? Check out Little Chair in Portland, Maine.