Print FAQ

 

Modern day screen printing hasn't changed much in the last 50 years. I use a classic photo polymer process to create the stencils. The process is rather primitive yet very accurate.

  1. Digitized artwork
  2. Film processing
  3. Screen exposure

 

1. Digital Artwork

Depending on how your design was originally made we will need a digitized version of your artwork. PDF, EPS, AI, PSD and TIFF files are all accepted. We prefer vector files. Pixel images should be sent in original print size and at a minimum of 300 dpi (1200dpi for bitmap files).

I prefer when each color in your design is sent as a separate file or a document with separate layers. To process the film the image in the file should be in black and white, not in color. All photographic greyscale images should have a halftone no finer than 25 lpi (Lines per inch).

All data sent from Adobe Illustrator should be compatible with Illustrator CS6 or lower.

 

 

2. Film Processing

I will need create a film positive for each color in your design. I use the film positive in the photo developing process to create the stencil.

 

3. SCREEN EXPOSURE

 

Once we determine the color of the garments and the print we will choose the correct screen coarseness for your job. We have excellent success with printing light colors onto dark clothes.

 

 

The Equipment

The Four Color Carousel

  • This machine has the possibility of printing up to four stencils.
  • I have hand-printed thousands of garments for hundreds of satisfied customers on this machine for over 20 years.
  • I know it's limits and have been know to push them.

 

THE RED CHILI EXPLOSION

This is one of the dryers I use to print shirts. After I have printed a shirt I can place it under The Red Chili flash dryer. It reaches a temperature of 160°C within seconds. This enables the wet color to become dry enough to print the color with a second layer. This method is perfect when printing light colors onto dark clothing.

 

The Plastic Fantastic Colors

  • I print with a special color used in the textile screen printing business known as Plastisol.
  • It is a very durable oil based color and an industry standard known for high quality results and great wash resistance.
  • The color remains in a liquid state until it's heated up to 260°C.
  • Water-based colors are also available at an extra cost.

 

The Alchemy Of Color

  • Choosing colors for your garments is an important part of the process.
  • I have been mixing colors for years and I will always do my best to get the exact color you want.
  • Mixing PANTONE colors are also available at an additional price.