Screen printing is one of the oldest and most versatile printing techniques, widely used in the textile industry to create bold, durable, and vibrant designs on garments, accessories, and other materials. From custom t-shirts to branded uniforms, screen printing remains the go-to method for businesses, hobbyists, and professional printers.
In this article, we’ll cover the basics of screen printing, the step-by-step process, the tools you need, and how InkProducts can help you produce professional-quality film positives using Canon CIS systems and Epson EcoTank conversion kits with our specialized Film Positive Ink.
What is Screen Printing?
Screen printing, also known as silkscreen printing or serigraphy, is a process where ink is pushed through a mesh stencil (screen) onto fabric or another surface. Each color in a design requires a separate screen, making it a layered process. While it requires preparation and precision, the results are durable, vibrant, and long-lasting.
This technique is particularly popular in the textile industry, where it’s used to decorate t-shirts, hoodies, sports jerseys, tote bags, and promotional items.
Essential Tools and Materials
To successfully screen print, you’ll need the following:
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Film Positive – A transparent sheet printed with dense black ink. This is used to block light during screen exposure.
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Screen Frame and Mesh – A frame with tightly stretched mesh fabric, usually polyester, that will hold the stencil.
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Emulsion and Sensitizer – A light-sensitive coating applied to the mesh that hardens when exposed to UV light.
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Exposure Unit – A light source (often UV) used to burn the design from the film positive onto the emulsion-coated screen.
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Squeegee – A tool used to push ink through the stencil and onto the garment.
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Textile Ink – Specialized ink designed for fabric printing.
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Dryer or Heat Press – Used to cure the ink so it bonds permanently with the fabric.
The Screen Printing Process Step by Step
Step 1: Create Your Design
Start with digital artwork in a graphic design program. For best results, use high-resolution vector art. Convert the design into separate layers for each color.
Step 2: Print the Film Positive
Print your artwork onto a transparent film positive using a specialized inkjet printer with high-opacity black ink. The film positive will act as your stencil template. This is where InkProducts can help—our Film Positive Ink produces dark, waterproof images that block UV light effectively during exposure.
Step 3: Coat the Screen with Emulsion
Apply a thin, even layer of light-sensitive emulsion onto your screen. Let it dry in a dark room to prevent premature exposure.
Step 4: Expose the Screen
Place the film positive onto the coated screen, then expose it to UV light. The transparent areas allow light to pass through, hardening the emulsion, while the black areas block light and remain soft.
Step 5: Wash Out the Design
Rinse the screen with water. The unexposed emulsion washes away, leaving behind your stencil. Dry the screen completely before moving on.
Step 6: Set Up the Screen on the Press
Secure the screen to a printing press or a simple hinge setup. Align your garment underneath the screen.
Step 7: Apply the Ink
Pour ink at the top of the screen. Use a squeegee to pull the ink across the screen, pressing it through the open areas of the stencil and onto the fabric.
Step 8: Cure the Print
After printing, cure the ink using a conveyor dryer or heat press. This step ensures durability and wash resistance.
Why Film Positives Matter in Screen Printing
The quality of your film positive directly affects the sharpness and accuracy of your stencil. If the black areas are not opaque enough, light can leak through during exposure, causing blurred edges or incomplete designs.
That’s why InkProducts provides Film Positive Ink, specifically designed for inkjet printers to produce bold, opaque, and waterproof images. With our solutions, your film positives will expose correctly every time, giving you sharp stencils and high-quality prints.
How InkProducts Can Help
InkProducts specializes in providing affordable and professional ink solutions for screen printers. Whether you’re a beginner starting your first setup or an experienced print shop, our products make the film positive process easier and more reliable.
Canon CIS with Film Positive Ink
For those using Canon printers, InkProducts offers Continuous Ink Systems (CIS) pre-filled with Film Positive Ink. These systems provide a cost-effective way to produce film positives consistently without worrying about running out of ink or replacing cartridges frequently.
Epson EcoTank Conversion Kits with Film Positive Ink
Epson EcoTank printers are popular in the screen-printing world. With InkProducts’ conversion kits and Film Positive Ink, you can transform your Epson ET printer into a reliable film positive printer. Our ink produces rich, dark blacks that ensure perfect exposure every time.
Advantages of Using InkProducts Film Positive Ink
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High Opacity – Creates dense, dark images that block UV light effectively.
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Waterproof Formula – Prevents smudging or ink bleeding.
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Cost-Effective Printing – Works with refillable systems and bulk ink bottles, saving you money.
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Consistency – Professional results for every film positive you print.
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Compatibility – Works with both Canon and Epson systems.
Final Thoughts
Screen printing is a powerful, versatile technique that allows for bold and long-lasting designs on textiles. Whether you’re printing for fun, running a small business, or managing a professional shop, understanding the process and using the right materials is key to success.
At the heart of this process is the film positive—the stencil blueprint that defines the quality of your prints. By using InkProducts Film Positive Ink with Canon CIS or Epson EcoTank conversion kits, you ensure crisp, accurate, and durable results.
With the right tools, inks, and preparation, anyone can master screen printing and create designs that stand out in the textile industry.
Compatible Film Positive Products For Canon
Compatible Film Positive Products For Epson
