Makespace - User contributions [en]

Equipment/Vinyl Cutter

2017-03-20T11:59:06Z

Jo dkbt: /* Owners */

[[Equipment]] / Vinyl Cutter

= Silver Bullet =

Please note that the CraftRobo vinyl cutter has been replaced by the new Silver Bullet. For information on the old cutter, please look here: [[Equipment/Vinyl Cutter CraftRobo | CraftRobo]]. The CraftRobo has been stored in the trove in a plastic box along with all its accessories. It is fully working and available for anyone to use.

= Summary =

The new Silver Bullet cutter is available for use by any member of makespace (with or without training). It has an orange sticker.

Training sessions for using the Silver Bullet will be advertised on the makespace website and on the forum.

= Using the Vinyl Cutter =

== Owners ==

The Owners are those nominally in charge of the equipment, organising its maintenance, helping others to use it, and generally being a point of contact.

The current Owners of the Vinyl Cutter are:

* [[User:Posborn|Paul Osborn]]
* Matthew Taylor
* [[User:Ennui2342|Mark Cheverton]]
* Katy Marshall
* Jo Brook

If you have any questions, problems or concerns around the vinyl cutter, or would like a personal introduction to how it all works, these are the people to contact.

== Training ==

The fact sheet for the Vinyl Cutter can be found here: [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1g7rOkZpxuMIlOiEFUPQQPjfsxwgaFrPb8GivrykSu4k/edit?usp=sharing Fact Sheet]

== Health and Safety ==

The vinyl cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must be operated with due care. The top things to always remember when using the vinyl cutter are:

* '''ONLY USE THE VINYL CUTTER IF YOU HAVE READ THE SAFETY NOTES BELOW'''
* '''NEVER LEAVE THE VINYL CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED'''
* '''ONLY CUT APPROPRIATE MATERIAL'''

The risk assessment is located here: [[Formal Risk Assessment: Vinyl Cutter]]

== Safety Notes ==

* '''SHARP BLADE''' - when handling the blade (eg. to adjust or change caps for different thickness) take care not to cut yourself

* '''TRAPPING''' - The head and roller of the machine are moved by programs in the machine's memory. Be careful when near the machine, it will possibly move even if the PC is off. Always keep the cover closed when cutting

== Instructions ==

We stock Heat Vinyl on the left (for TShirts) and Sticky Backed Vinyl on the right (for Signs).

Heat Vinyl is cut upside down and mirrored.
Sticky Vinyl is cut right way up and right way round.

Draft instructions for use assuming Sticky Vinyl. If using Heat Vinyl, see [[Equipment/TShirtPress]] for alternative instructions as it's substantially different and must be mirrored.

'''Read all instructions and warnings before you start'''<br>

Overall idea:
*Create in Inkscape (see notes below about scaling if you use Illustrator!)
*Load into SureCutsALot
*Cut on the Silver Bullet
*Press on the heat press or stick to something.

Detail:
*Create your vinyl masterpiece in Inkscape
**Convert all your objects to path
**Check with view outlines it's what you want (line thickness is ignored remember)
**View -> Display Mode -> Outline
**Save as SVG
*Import into Sure Cuts A Lot (SCAL) on the vinyl cutter PC
**Check scale (you'll need to make things 25% larger if using Illustrator. Please don't change SCAL import settings)
**Do not mirror for sticky vinyl.
**View as outline to check (sometimes this will show things that it otherwise hides)
**Check tool offset is 0.25mm (Cutter -> Cutter Settings)
**Check mat orientation in SCAL (portrait/landscape)
*Set up Silver Bullet
**Check correct tip installed (usually 45 degree standard cutter, "Click blade holder", the red one)
**Insert sticky vinyl (if using Heat Vinyl, see [[Equipment/TShirtPress]] for alternative instructions)
**Please put money for the vinyl in the honesty box straight away
**Load up Silver Bullet with Sticky Backed Vinyl. Use the Silver Bullet Cutting Sheet to make life easy, you can get away without it for stiffer materials if leave 5cm at the top and 1cm at the bottom. Portrait or Landscape to match Cutting Sheet settings in SCAL.
**Check cut depth on red Click Blade Holder (4 for vinyl?)
**Offline mode, set to bottom right and ZERO it (offline mode, cross hair button).
***After Zeroing, press Test to do a test rectangle. Check it cuts the vinyl but not the backing.
**Move cutting head to bottom right of sheet (material at back of printer) and zero it (offline, cross hair)
**Double check you zero'd it and press Online on the Silver Bullet.
**In SCAL:
***Delete any colours you're not cutting (undo with ctrl-Z later, but don't under your mirroring!)
***Menu: Cutter -> Cut With Silver Bullet.
***Select Use Software Speed and Pressure. For Vinyl set to Speed = 200 and f=50. (could go faster? needs checking)
***Select "Origin Point". Bottom right of piece to match location in SCAL.
***Check Silver Bullet is Online.
***"Cut" to start
***Will start immediately. If there is a delay, you probably forgot Online mode and you should wait for it to download before pressing Online (probably - needs checking)

Pay for your vinyl
*Stick Transfer Tape to front of vinyl
*Weed from the back
*Stick to final location and carefully remove transfer tape

== Problems ==

Software not connecting to cutter: "The problem was that the baud rate in the menu on the Silver Bullet was set to 9600, while the software was set to 38400. These need to match, even for USB serial, so I've reset the SB back to 38400."

= Official Documentation and Further Information =

* Silver Bullet Manual: [http://learn.silverbulletcutters.com/silver-bullet-manual/ Silver Bullet manual download (actual file removed for the moment)]
* Silver Bullet SCAL Software Manual (PC) (actual file removed for the moment due to copyright claim): [[Media:Silver Bullet and Scal Manual pc.pdf]]
* Silver Bullet SCAL Software Manual (Mac) (actual file removed due to copyright claim): [[Media:Silver Bullet and Scal Manual mac.pdf]]
* Silver Bullet Accessories: [[Media:Silver Bullet Accessories.pdf]]
* Free files (boxes, frames, game pieces) that might be useful: [http://app.box.com/s/ht00330cgyao0lxk160i Free Files]
* Intro to materials that can be printed and cut [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PijbpEQHppw Video Intro]
* [http://silverbulletcutters.com/gallery/gallery/ Material cutting gallery]
* [http://silverbulletcutters.com/gallery/video-collection/ Silver Bullet video collection]
* [https://onedrive.live.com/?cid=599a4ab7197c18bb&id=599A4AB7197C18BB!298926&ithint=folder,&authkey=!ABIkWjwBXSzRTfo Online tutorials]
* [http://forum.silverbulletcutters.com Silver Bullet Cutters' Forum]
* [http://www.mdpsupplies.co.uk/cameomattsignvinylrolls.asp MDP Supplies - Where Makespace gets the vinyl stock]
You can make up your own personal guides to materials that you use and the settings used on those materials by printing out guide sheets from the PC connected to the Silver Bullet (the guide sheets are on the desktop). A few pre-printed guide sheets can be found in the second draw down on the right beneath the Silver Bullet.

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-08-30T14:51:05Z

Jo dkbt: /* Equipment */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports non-photographic waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different scales and types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: '''We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace''' due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. The current area is suitable for learning basic handprinting technique and smallscale craft and hobbyist printing.

It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace or to get a screen manufactured with your design. But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

Other dedicated print studios exist in Cambridge which do support photographic screenprinting process and open-access, for instance
[http://www.stbarnabaspress.co.uk/open-access.html St Barnabas Press]

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Log prints done and materials used in the session in the log book. This helps the owners know which items are popular and to keep things in stock.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washing up the equipment, ensure that the floor is not slippery by mopping up any water using the mops next to the sink. This is particularly important as the sink is on the busy main pathway through the space and to the secure workshop.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. There is a shower attachment which can be put onto the tap. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap (kept in or under sink)

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''

This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is nowhere in the current space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-08-30T14:50:35Z

Jo dkbt: /* Care of personal items and shared equipment */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports non-photographic waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different scales and types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: '''We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace''' due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. The current area is suitable for learning basic handprinting technique and smallscale craft and hobbyist printing.

It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace or to get a screen manufactured with your design. But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

Other dedicated print studios exist in Cambridge which do support photographic screenprinting process and open-access, for instance
[http://www.stbarnabaspress.co.uk/open-access.html St Barnabas Press]

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Log prints done and materials used in the session in the log book. This helps the owners know which items are popular and to keep things in stock.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washing up the equipment, ensure that the floor is not slippery by mopping up any water using the mops next to the sink. This is particularly important as the sink is on the busy main pathway through the space and to the secure workshop.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. There is a shower attachment which can be put onto the tap. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''

This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is nowhere in the current space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

TShirtsGallery

2016-08-05T18:08:47Z

Jo dkbt: Added Makespace tote bag

Awesome TShirts made at Makespace with our vinyl cutter and TShirt press!

<gallery>
File:IMG 6405cr.jpg|Made during TShirt demo
File:MarkT_cr.jpg|MarkT. The T stands for Transistor.
File:MatC_in_TShirt.jpg|Mat C. "I &hearts;<sub>prefer cambridge to</sub> NY"
File:20141207_193451.jpg|Front...
File:20141207_193459.jpg|... and back
File:20141209_204144.jpg|Guess the plane?
File:20141210_202621.jpg|Cephalopods ftw - Made during TShirt demo
File:20141211_204337.jpg|Santa Claws... (MarkT)
File:20141211_204129.jpg|
File:20141211_222435.jpg|
File:20141215_212914.jpg|Robin's creations..
File:20141215 213857.jpg|
File:20141215 213922.jpg|
File:20141215 213935.jpg|Irridescent!
File:20141216 222705.jpg|Super shiny awesome!
File:20141218 003515.jpg|
File:20141218 211632.jpg
File:20141220 213006.jpg|Don't say Breaking Bad...
File:20141220 213047.jpg|Foot Effect Transistor
File:20141220 145654.jpg|Made during the Christmas TShirt Demo
File:20150107 001408.jpg|Pi Inside!
File:Lanyard.jpg|Best use yet of the Tshirt press; keeping Mat Cook busy
File:Family makers tshirts.JPG|Mark Cheverton's kids @ Family Makers
File:20150725_210944.jpg|Next version: solderable!
File:MakespaceShoppingBag.jpg|'Crafted at Makespace' tote bag (all from materials at the space)
</gallery>

<br>
To add to this gallery:
* Upload file: http://wiki.makespace.org/Special:Upload (ctrl-c copy the filename after it's uploaded)
* Edit this page to include the picture

File:MakespaceShoppingBag.jpg

2016-08-05T18:06:26Z

Jo dkbt: Jo dkbt uploaded a new version of "File:MakespaceShoppingBag.jpg"

Crafted at Makespace cotton shopping bag

File:MakespaceShoppingBag.jpg

2016-08-05T18:05:18Z

Jo dkbt: Crafted at Makespace cotton shopping bag

Crafted at Makespace cotton shopping bag

CreatingScreenprintingStencils

2016-06-14T14:41:57Z

Jo dkbt: /* Lasercutting paper stencils */

== Creating a Stencil ==

These instructions describe how to create a stencil using methods available at Makespace -- cut paper and cut sticky vinyl.

=== Summary ===

# Choose the method best suited to your design based on the characteristics and limitations of each method listed below.
# Choose '''paper''' (lasercut or handcut) or cut '''sticky vinyl'''. Note: only people trained on the lasercutter can use it.
# Remember to pay for any newsprint paper and/or sticky vinyl used

=== Paper stencils ===
* Use newsprint paper. This is thin (50 gsm) and will cling to the screen when wetted with ink. Office paper (80 gsm) is too thick to cling and then wrinkles when wetted without contact with the screen to support it.
* Tape the paper to the underside of the screen using masking tape (stored in the small cabinet to the right of the print area).

==== Characteristics / limitations ====

* Suited to designs without 'islands' (for example the middle of a letter 'o')
* No manual 'weeding' or peeling required to transfer to screen. No masking off required.
* Design does not need to be reversed.

=== Sticky vinyl stencils ===
==== Characteristics / limitations ====
* Can support stencils with 'islands' but note that larger lettering and designs work better than more detailed ones.
* Reverse the design before cutting. We recommend that the stencil is stuck onto the underside of the screen, closest to the workpiece. This avoids the squeegee catching on pieces of the vinyl and peeling them away. Putting the stencil on the print side (underside) of the screen also gives a more precise print.
* Ensure that the vinyl is stuck as well to the screen as possible by rolling with the brayer (roller kept near the vinyl cutter) or by rubbing or burnishing the pieces on with a smooth object such as a pen.

==== Lasercutting paper stencils ====

A lasercut stencil can make use of shapes or lettering created in the usual way (using Inkscape).
Use a whole sheet of A2+ newsprint paper.

Recommended cutter settings: '''speed 64; power 15'''.

Many designs can be printed with flat colours.

It is also possible to create shaded colours, with some limitations. Screenprinting shaded colours uses the traditional technique of '''halftoning''' -- splitting an image into small dots or lines of varying sizes.

'''Creating halftones with Inkscape'''

* Import a bitmap
* Create a small filled circle (or other shape) at one corner of the bitmap
* Open '''Edit > Clone > Create Tiled Clones ...'''
* On the '''Trace''' tab select '''Trace the drawing under the tiles'''
* In section 3 '''Apply the value to the clones'''' select '''Size'''. (Unselect '''Colour''' and '''Opacity''' as these are not relevant to the result.) '''Presence''' controls whether lighter areas are filled with small dots or left blank, which is a choice which can be made for a particular design.
* Save your work at this point as Inkscape may crash attempting this process!
* Click '''Create'''
* Note that as this process is quite intensive for Inkscape it may take several minutes. More complex images may fail to complete. So it is advisable to remove background detail from photographs and use a dot size which does not give a large number of dots.
* When the halftone pattern looks as you want it, delete the bitmap image and export the image as DXF ready for cutting.

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-05-04T15:09:35Z

Jo dkbt: /* Summary */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports non-photographic waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different scales and types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: '''We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace''' due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. The current area is suitable for learning basic handprinting technique and smallscale craft and hobbyist printing.

It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace or to get a screen manufactured with your design. But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

Other dedicated print studios exist in Cambridge which do support photographic screenprinting process and open-access, for instance
[http://www.stbarnabaspress.co.uk/open-access.html St Barnabas Press]

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Log prints done and materials used in the session in the log book. This helps the owners know which items are popular and to keep things in stock.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washing up the equipment, ensure that the floor is not slippery by mopping up any water using the mops next to the sink. This is particularly important as the sink is on the busy main pathway through the space and to the secure workshop.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''

This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is nowhere in the current space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

SeeTheSpace

2016-03-01T16:24:30Z

Jo dkbt: Removed reference to Mill Lane tenancy ending in late 2015.

This is a See The Space guide for members to give to potential Makespace members.

Intro
* Set up with space donated by the University, funding from the government via Ideaspace, and created by the three dedicated idea people: Jonny, Simon and Laura.
* It's a community - mutual help
* Costs £40 per month (3 month minimum, 1 month's notice after that I think?)
** This pays only for the space (and 24/7 access with a keyfob) and the equipment.
** Training courses are run by volunteers, materials you use (eg acrylic) you pay for (or bring your own).
** Materials are extra - we don't make money on the honesty boxes
** There is no usage or hourly charge for anything
* Concept of the owners for equipment - run by volunteers as part of the community spirit
* Part of the community spirit of the place
* We don't book equipment - just come along. BUT - if something is heavily used we buy two (eg Laser cutter)

Ask their interests - what they want out of the space.

Encourage questions from the start.

Tour
* Storage boxes for people (Makespace supplies a box and a space for everyone)
* Classroom (events! gatherings! gaming nights! hackathons! electronics! presentations!)
* Trove (partly free stuff, partly members' storage)
* Main space
** Health and safety overview (it's not an induction - just be clear what we expect, tell them no touching before they're inducted)
** Honesty boxes to cover materials costs
** Community - tidying, helping each other, training
** Go through all major equipment
** Say what we're actively working to improve (but please don't make promises we can't definitely keep)
** Explain green/yellow/red kit, that they need to get inductions on red kit
** Enthuse about anything you love
** If you don't know much about something explain as such, and offer to put them in touch with the owner
* Secure workshop
** Make sure it's safe to enter! (Ask anyone working in there to pause for a few minutes)
* Thank our sponsors outside the kitchen, congratulate yourself if you're on it
* Kitchen (please keep it tidy, honesty box)
* Craft room - Vinyl cutter and TShirt press
* Loos (explain the keyfob to get back in)

Mention that we have this space for now [until when?], and after that we hope to find somewhere else close to Cambridge centre.

Reconvene in the main space, ask if any more questions.

They can sign up at makespace.org/membership (there might be a signup event right after the showing around - see if someone is running this)
* They get a fob and a workspace induction, and then they can use the space whenever they wish.
* Inductions on kit - please do ask for induction courses to be run!
* Also: meetup.com, wiki, googlegroups.

Tell them they're welcome to hang around after the tour and ask questions...

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-19T15:02:02Z

Jo dkbt: /* Preparation */

== Screenprinting on Fabric ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Check fabric or items are suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# Ensure layers of fabric are separated to prevent print-through
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this fabric or item.
# Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="7">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Select '''D or V-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Print on fabric or items</li>
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size, plus any bags etc. from Makespace stock</li>
</ol>

==== Finishing session ====

<ol start="13">
<li>After items are dry, the design must be fixed into the fabric using heat. This melts the acrylic ink into the fabric, giving a softer texture and also allows the item to be washed (up to 40 degrees C). Cover the printed area with a piece of baking paper (from the kitchen) and use the '''iron''' (5 minutes at hottest setting appropriate to the fabric, moving the iron in the usual way to avoid burning the fabric or paper) or '''heatpress''' (30 seconds) to fix the design.</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check fabric or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure layers of fabric are separated to prevent print-through''' If printing an item with multiple layers such as a bag or t-shirt, ensure that the ink does not print through to the back layer using a '''platen''' to separate the layers. For larger items such as large/adult t-shirts, the print bed can be (carefully) flipped over and the built-in platen used. For smaller items such as shopping bags or small t-shirts, use the small portable platen or a piece of cardboard or board cut to size.
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this fabric/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of textile ink:
* Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
* Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
* When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
* Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
* For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium or water it is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.
See this video as a guide to judging ink consistency and avoiding ink which is too dry or too wet for printing:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ddb6Za4vP4| How to Mix Screen Printing Ink]
<ol start="6">
<li>'''Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)'''</li>
<li>'''Select the '''D or V-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design'''</li>
<li>'''Clear space in drying rack'''</li>
<li>'''Print on fabric or items'''</li>
</ol>

<ol start="10">
<li>'''Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water''' First wash all the ink out of the screen. A shower attachment is available for the tap -- plug the spare tap hole before use. Then wash up the squeegee(s), palette knife, ink-measuring spoons and any other tools used. Wipe up any wet ink on the print frame and platen and any wet ink in the print area. Finally wash ink from your hands.</li>
<li>'''Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard'''</li>
<li>'''Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size''' Log session in the log book.
Use the size sheet to work out whether your design is less than A5, between A5 and A4 or between A4 and A3.
</li>
</ol>

CreatingScreenprintingStencils

2016-01-19T14:57:03Z

Jo dkbt: /* Characteristics / limitations */

== Creating a Stencil ==

These instructions describe how to create a stencil using methods available at Makespace -- cut paper and cut sticky vinyl.

=== Summary ===

# Choose the method best suited to your design based on the characteristics and limitations of each method listed below.
# Choose '''paper''' (lasercut or handcut) or cut '''sticky vinyl'''. Note: only people trained on the lasercutter can use it.
# Remember to pay for any newsprint paper and/or sticky vinyl used

=== Paper stencils ===
* Use newsprint paper. This is thin (50 gsm) and will cling to the screen when wetted with ink. Office paper (80 gsm) is too thick to cling and then wrinkles when wetted without contact with the screen to support it.
* Tape the paper to the underside of the screen using masking tape (stored in the small cabinet to the right of the print area).

==== Characteristics / limitations ====

* Suited to designs without 'islands' (for example the middle of a letter 'o')
* No manual 'weeding' or peeling required to transfer to screen. No masking off required.
* Design does not need to be reversed.

=== Sticky vinyl stencils ===
==== Characteristics / limitations ====
* Can support stencils with 'islands' but note that larger lettering and designs work better than more detailed ones.
* Reverse the design before cutting. We recommend that the stencil is stuck onto the underside of the screen, closest to the workpiece. This avoids the squeegee catching on pieces of the vinyl and peeling them away. Putting the stencil on the print side (underside) of the screen also gives a more precise print.
* Ensure that the vinyl is stuck as well to the screen as possible by rolling with the brayer (roller kept near the vinyl cutter) or by rubbing or burnishing the pieces on with a smooth object such as a pen.

==== Lasercutting paper stencils ====

A lasercut stencil can make use of shapes or lettering created in the usual way (using Inkscape).
Use a whole sheet of A2+ newsprint paper.

Recommended cutter settings: speed 64; power 15.

Many designs can be printed with flat colours.

It is also possible to create shaded colours, with some limitations. Screenprinting shaded colours uses the traditional technique of '''halftoning''' -- splitting an image into small dots or lines of varying sizes.

'''Creating halftones with Inkscape'''

* Import a bitmap
* Create a small filled circle (or other shape) at one corner of the bitmap
* Open '''Edit > Clone > Create Tiled Clones ...'''
* On the '''Trace''' tab select '''Trace the drawing under the tiles'''
* In section 3 '''Apply the value to the clones'''' select '''Size'''. (Unselect '''Colour''' and '''Opacity''' as these are not relevant to the result.) '''Presence''' controls whether lighter areas are filled with small dots or left blank, which is a choice which can be made for a particular design.
* Save your work at this point as Inkscape may crash attempting this process!
* Click '''Create'''
* Note that as this process is quite intensive for Inkscape it may take several minutes. More complex images may fail to complete. So it is advisable to remove background detail from photographs and use a dot size which does not give a large number of dots.
* When the halftone pattern looks as you want it, delete the bitmap image and export the image as DXF ready for cutting.

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-19T14:54:05Z

Jo dkbt: /* Finishing session */

== Screenprinting on Fabric ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Choose suitable fabric
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Check that the fabric or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# If printing an item with multiple layers such as a bag or t-shirt, ensure that the ink does not print through to the back layer using a '''platen''' to separate the layers. For larger items such as large/adult t-shirts, the print bed can be (carefully) flipped over and the built-in platen used. For smaller items such as shopping bags or small t-shirts, use the small portable platen or a piece of cardboard or board cut to size.
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this fabric or item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="9">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Select '''D or V-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Print on fabric or items</li>
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size, plus any bags etc. from Makespace stock</li>
</ol>

==== Finishing session ====

<ol start="15">
<li>After items are dry, the design must be fixed into the fabric using heat. This melts the acrylic ink into the fabric, giving a softer texture and also allows the item to be washed (up to 40 degrees C). Cover the printed area with a piece of baking paper (from the kitchen) and use the '''iron''' (5 minutes at hottest setting appropriate to the fabric, moving the iron in the usual way to avoid burning the fabric or paper) or '''heatpress''' (30 seconds) to fix the design.</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check fabric or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure layers of fabric are separated to prevent print-through''' If printing an item with multiple layers such as a bag or t-shirt, ensure that the ink does not print through to the back layer using a '''platen''' to separate the layers. For larger items such as large/adult t-shirts, the print bed can be (carefully) flipped over and the built-in platen used. For smaller items such as shopping bags or small t-shirts, use the small portable platen or a piece of cardboard or board cut to size.
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this fabric/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of textile ink:
* Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
* Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
* When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
* Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
* For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium or water it is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.
See this video as a guide to judging ink consistency and avoiding ink which is too dry or too wet for printing:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ddb6Za4vP4| How to Mix Screen Printing Ink]
<ol start="6">
<li>'''Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)'''</li>
<li>'''Select the '''D or V-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design'''</li>
<li>'''Clear space in drying rack'''</li>
<li>'''Print on fabric or items'''</li>
</ol>

<ol start="10">
<li>'''Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water''' First wash all the ink out of the screen. A shower attachment is available for the tap -- plug the spare tap hole before use. Then wash up the squeegee(s), palette knife, ink-measuring spoons and any other tools used. Wipe up any wet ink on the print frame and platen and any wet ink in the print area. Finally wash ink from your hands.</li>
<li>'''Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard'''</li>
<li>'''Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size''' Log session in the log book.
Use the size sheet to work out whether your design is less than A5, between A5 and A4 or between A4 and A3.
</li>
</ol>

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-19T14:39:30Z

Jo dkbt: /* Detailed instructions */

== Screenprinting on Fabric ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Choose suitable fabric
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Check that the fabric or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# If printing an item with multiple layers such as a bag or t-shirt, ensure that the ink does not print through to the back layer using a '''platen''' to separate the layers. For larger items such as large/adult t-shirts, the print bed can be (carefully) flipped over and the built-in platen used. For smaller items such as shopping bags or small t-shirts, use the small portable platen or a piece of cardboard or board cut to size.
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this fabric or item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="9">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Select '''D or V-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Print on fabric or items</li>
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size, plus any bags etc. from Makespace stock</li>
</ol>

==== Finishing session ====

<ol start="15">
<li>After items are dry, the design must be fixed into the fabric using heat. This allows the item to be washed (up to 40 degrees C). Cover the printed area with a piece of baking paper (from the kitchen) and use the '''iron''' (5 minutes at hottest setting appropriate to the fabric. moving the iron as usual to avoid burning the fabric or paper) or '''heatpress''' (30 seconds) to fix the design.</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check fabric or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure layers of fabric are separated to prevent print-through''' If printing an item with multiple layers such as a bag or t-shirt, ensure that the ink does not print through to the back layer using a '''platen''' to separate the layers. For larger items such as large/adult t-shirts, the print bed can be (carefully) flipped over and the built-in platen used. For smaller items such as shopping bags or small t-shirts, use the small portable platen or a piece of cardboard or board cut to size.
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this fabric/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of textile ink:
* Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
* Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
* When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
* Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
* For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium or water it is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.
See this video as a guide to judging ink consistency and avoiding ink which is too dry or too wet for printing:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ddb6Za4vP4| How to Mix Screen Printing Ink]
<ol start="6">
<li>'''Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)'''</li>
<li>'''Select the '''D or V-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design'''</li>
<li>'''Clear space in drying rack'''</li>
<li>'''Print on fabric or items'''</li>
</ol>

<ol start="10">
<li>'''Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water''' First wash all the ink out of the screen. A shower attachment is available for the tap -- plug the spare tap hole before use. Then wash up the squeegee(s), palette knife, ink-measuring spoons and any other tools used. Wipe up any wet ink on the print frame and platen and any wet ink in the print area. Finally wash ink from your hands.</li>
<li>'''Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard'''</li>
<li>'''Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size''' Log session in the log book.
Use the size sheet to work out whether your design is less than A5, between A5 and A4 or between A4 and A3.
</li>
</ol>

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-14T14:26:18Z

Jo dkbt: /* Wishlist / Ongoing issues */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Log prints done and materials used in the session in the log book. This helps the owners know which items are popular and to keep things in stock.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washing up the equipment, ensure that the floor is not slippery by mopping up any water using the mops next to the sink. This is particularly important as the sink is on the busy main pathway through the space and to the secure workshop.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''

This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is nowhere in the current space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

CreatingScreenprintingStencils

2016-01-14T13:24:36Z

Jo dkbt: /* Lasercutting paper stencils */

== Creating a Stencil ==

These instructions describe how to create a stencil using methods available at Makespace -- cut paper and cut sticky vinyl.

=== Summary ===

# Choose the method best suited to your design based on the characteristics and limitations of each method listed below.
# Choose '''paper''' (lasercut or handcut) or cut '''sticky vinyl'''. Note: only people trained on the lasercutter can use it.
# Remember to pay for any newsprint paper and/or sticky vinyl used

=== Paper stencils ===
* Use newsprint paper. This is thin (50 gsm) and will cling to the screen when wetted with ink. Office paper (80 gsm) is too thick to cling and then wrinkles when wetted without contact with the screen to support it.
* Tape the paper to the underside of the screen using masking tape (stored in the small cabinet to the right of the print area).

==== Characteristics / limitations ====

* Suited to designs without 'islands' (for example the middle of a letter 'o')
* No manual 'weeding' or peeling required to transfer to screen. No masking off required.
* Design does not need to be reversed.

=== Sticky vinyl stencils ===
==== Characteristics / limitations ====
* Can support stencils with 'islands' but note that larger lettering and designs work better than more detailed ones.
* Reverse the design before cutting. We recommend that the stencil is stuck onto the underside of the screen, closest to the workpiece. This avoids the squeegee catching on pieces of the vinyl and peeling them away. Putting the stencil on the print side (underside) of the screen also gives a more precise print.

==== Lasercutting paper stencils ====

A lasercut stencil can make use of shapes or lettering created in the usual way (using Inkscape).
Use a whole sheet of A2+ newsprint paper.

Recommended cutter settings: speed 64; power 15.

Many designs can be printed with flat colours.

It is also possible to create shaded colours, with some limitations. Screenprinting shaded colours uses the traditional technique of '''halftoning''' -- splitting an image into small dots or lines of varying sizes.

'''Creating halftones with Inkscape'''

* Import a bitmap
* Create a small filled circle (or other shape) at one corner of the bitmap
* Open '''Edit > Clone > Create Tiled Clones ...'''
* On the '''Trace''' tab select '''Trace the drawing under the tiles'''
* In section 3 '''Apply the value to the clones'''' select '''Size'''. (Unselect '''Colour''' and '''Opacity''' as these are not relevant to the result.) '''Presence''' controls whether lighter areas are filled with small dots or left blank, which is a choice which can be made for a particular design.
* Save your work at this point as Inkscape may crash attempting this process!
* Click '''Create'''
* Note that as this process is quite intensive for Inkscape it may take several minutes. More complex images may fail to complete. So it is advisable to remove background detail from photographs and use a dot size which does not give a large number of dots.
* When the halftone pattern looks as you want it, delete the bitmap image and export the image as DXF ready for cutting.

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-14T10:21:59Z

Jo dkbt: /* Detailed instructions */

== Screenprinting on Paper and non-Fabrics ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Check that paper or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this paper/item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="6">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Print on paper or items</li>
</ol>

==== Cleanup ====

<ol start="10">
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water</li>
<li>Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check paper or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this paper/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of non-textile ink:
* Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
* Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
* When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
* Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
* For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium or water it is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.
See this video as a guide to judging ink consistency and avoiding ink which is too dry or too wet for printing:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ddb6Za4vP4| How to Mix Screen Printing Ink]
<ol start="6">
<li>'''Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)'''</li>
<li>'''Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design'''</li>
<li>'''Clear space in drying rack'''</li>
<li>'''Print on paper or items'''</li>
</ol>

<ol start="10">
<li>'''Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water''' First wash all the ink out of the screen. A shower attachment is available for the tap -- plug the spare tap hole before use. Then wash up the squeegee(s), palette knife, ink-measuring spoons and any other tools used. Wipe up any wet ink on the print frame and platen and any wet ink in the print area. Finally wash ink from your hands.</li>
<li>'''Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard'''</li>
<li>'''Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size''' Log session in the log book.
Use the size sheet to work out whether your design is less than A5, between A5 and A4 or between A4 and A3.
</li>
</ol>

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:51:43Z

Jo dkbt: /* Screenprinting on Fabric */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:51:04Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:50:33Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:50:14Z

Jo dkbt: /* Preparation */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:49:24Z

Jo dkbt: /* Finishing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:49:05Z

Jo dkbt: /* Finishing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:37:22Z

Jo dkbt: /* Screenprinting on Fabric */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:32:04Z

Jo dkbt: /* Finishing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:31:24Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:31:13Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2016-01-14T01:25:42Z

Jo dkbt: /* Preparation */

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-14T01:15:36Z

Jo dkbt: /* Detailed instructions */

== Screenprinting on Paper and non-Fabrics ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Check that paper or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this paper/item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="6">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Print on paper or items</li>
</ol>

==== Cleanup ====

<ol start="10">
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water</li>
<li>Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check paper or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this paper/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of non-textile ink:
* Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
* Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
* When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
* Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
* For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium until is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.
See this video as a guide to judging ink consistency and avoiding ink which is too dry or too wet for printing:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ddb6Za4vP4| How to Mix Screen Printing Ink]
<ol start="6">
<li>'''Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)'''</li>
<li>'''Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design'''</li>
<li>'''Clear space in drying rack'''</li>
<li>'''Print on paper or items'''</li>
</ol>

<ol start="10">
<li>'''Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water''' First wash all the ink out of the screen. A shower attachment is available for the tap -- plug the spare tap hole before use. Then wash up the squeegee(s), palette knife, ink-measuring spoons and any other tools used. Wipe up any wet ink on the print frame and platen and any wet ink in the print area. Finally wash ink from your hands.</li>
<li>'''Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard'''</li>
<li>'''Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size''' Log session in the log book.
Use the size sheet to work out whether your design is less than A5, between A5 and A4 or between A4 and A3.
</li>
</ol>

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-14T00:17:21Z

Jo dkbt: /* Detailed instructions */

== Screenprinting on Paper and non-Fabrics ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Check that paper or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this paper/item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="6">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Print on paper or items</li>
</ol>

==== Cleanup ====

<ol start="10">
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water</li>
<li>Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check paper or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this paper/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of non-textile ink:
* Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
* Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
* When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
* Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
* For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium until is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.
<ol start="6">
<li>'''Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)'''</li>
<li>'''Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design'''</li>
<li>'''Clear space in drying rack'''</li>
<li>'''Print on paper or items'''</li>
</ol>

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-14T00:15:53Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

== Screenprinting on Paper and non-Fabrics ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Check that paper or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this paper/item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="6">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Select '''square-profile''' squeegee which is the smallest which is wider than your design</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Print on paper or items</li>
</ol>

==== Cleanup ====

<ol start="10">
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water</li>
<li>Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check paper or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this paper/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of non-textile ink:
# Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in
and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
# Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
# When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
# Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
# For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium until is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-14T00:14:54Z

Jo dkbt: /* Detailed instructions */

== Screenprinting on Paper and non-Fabrics ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Check that paper or item is suitable for printing (flat, absorbent)
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps
# Ensure the screen has suitable '''snap''' / '''off-contact''' for the thickness of this paper/item. To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink

==== Printing session ====

<ol start="6">
<li>Prepare some pieces of test paper (of similar size to your design)</li>
<li>Select '''square-profile''' squeegee</li>
<li>Clear space in drying rack</li>
<li>Print on paper or items</li>
</ol>

==== Cleanup ====

<ol start="10">
<li>Wash screen, equipment and hands using washing-up liquid and cold water</li>
<li>Mop up any water from the floor to avoid a slip hazard</li>
<li>Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size</li>
</ol>

=== Detailed instructions ===

# '''Check paper or items are suitable for printing''' For best results paper should not be too thin or it may wrinkle or get waterlogged. Note that typical 'office' or 'computer' paper (80 gsm) is usually too thin and will not dry flat especially if there is a lot of ink in the design. Non-paper items should ideally be somewhat absorbent or the print may scratch off.
# '''Prepare a screen and stencil''' – see [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils]]
# '''Clamp the screen into the printing frame using the hinge clamps'''
# '''Ensure the screen has suitable snap / off-contact for the thickness of this paper/item''' To test this press down gently on the centre of the screen. It should depress around 3mm and spring back. Use acrylic pieces (in the small drawer unit) under the edge of screen nearest you to increase the height. If printing on a thick item or using the small platen, also insert acrylic pieces between the underside of the screen inside the clamps.
# '''Mix '''non-textile''' printing ink'''
## First decide on the colour to be printed in this session.
Note: Items must be dry before printing additional colours so only prepare ink for each colour just before it is needed for printing.

To mix a new batch of non-textile ink:
# Take an empty clear plastic ink pot to mix your ink mixture in
and use a spoon to measure out pigments and mix if needed
# Choose a colour of System 3 pigment (paint) or mix System 3 pigments to create a new colour. For mixed colours mix well until the colour is completely even, so that the print will be consistent on each item
# When the pigment mixture is the colour you want, mix this with an equal amount (1:1) of System 3 Textile print medium.
# Mix well until the mixture looks consistent.
# For printing the mixture should have a consistency similar to domestic emulsion paint or liquid honey and should drop slowly from a palette knife dipped into it. If it is too dry or sticky to drop, mix in small amounts of extra medium until is more fluid. This can happen when ink has been stored and reused.

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-13T23:32:09Z

Jo dkbt: /* Preparation */

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-13T23:29:20Z

Jo dkbt: /* Cleanup */

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-13T23:28:18Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-13T23:25:08Z

Jo dkbt: /* Detailed instructions */

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-13T23:23:21Z

Jo dkbt: /* Cleanup */

ScreenprintingOnPaper

2016-01-13T23:20:11Z

Jo dkbt: /* Preparation */

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T23:17:37Z

Jo dkbt: /* Main steps in the screenprinting process */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Log prints done and materials used in the session in the log book. This helps the owners know which items are popular and to keep things in stock.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washing up the equipment, ensure that the floor is not slippery by mopping up any water using the mops next to the sink. This is particularly important as the sink is on the busy main pathway through the space and to the secure workshop.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is currently nowhere in the space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:47:53Z

Jo dkbt: /* Safety */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washing up the equipment, ensure that the floor is not slippery by mopping up any water using the mops next to the sink. This is particularly important as the sink is on the busy main pathway through the space and to the secure workshop.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is currently nowhere in the space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:43:48Z

Jo dkbt: /* Safety */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.
* After washout, mop up any water left on the floor using the mops near the sink to avoid the main pathway through the space from becoming slippery.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is currently nowhere in the space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

File:Createspace screenrack.png

2016-01-13T22:38:58Z

Jo dkbt: Jo dkbt uploaded a new version of "File:Createspace screenrack.png"

Example design for simple screen-drying/storage rack makeable at Makespace

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:37:40Z

Jo dkbt: /* Wishlist / Ongoing issues */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
This would need:
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

After several discussions the feeling is that there is currently nowhere in the space which can be used as a darkroom. Most spaces either have natural light or are awkward to use (low-height storage spaces under the kitchen).

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:35:24Z

Jo dkbt: /* Set-up items / wishlist */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Wishlist / Ongoing issues ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:34:54Z

Jo dkbt: /* Set-up items / wishlist */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Set-up items / wishlist ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:
[[File:Createspace screenrack.png]]

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

File:Createspace screenrack.png

2016-01-13T22:33:49Z

Jo dkbt: Example design for simple screen-drying/storage rack makeable at Makespace

Example design for simple screen-drying/storage rack makeable at Makespace

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:32:49Z

Jo dkbt: /* Set-up items / wishlist */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Set-up items / wishlist ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench
* Vertical drying rack to store screens and keep them off the dusty floor
e.g., like this at London Createspace:

'''Photographic stencil creation'''
* Mini-darkroom area for exposing screens -- could maybe be tent/pop-up
* Lightsafe, undisturbed space/cupboard for storing multiple emulsion-coated screens overnight to dry -- cannot be pop-up
* Exposure unit or lamp. Photo-cube lamps could work if daylight colour-temperature (5000K) bulbs are replaced.

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:12:25Z

Jo dkbt: /* Warnings */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands and skin. If you print regularly the pigments in the ink may cause skin irritation if not removed.

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Dried-in acrylic ink forms a plastic material which cannot be washed out and which blocks the holes in the mesh, rendering the screen unusable. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Set-up items / wishlist ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench (as in craft room but somewhat deeper) -- 2 x Finnvard trestles or sheet with screw adjusters (found)
* Space to store screens -- can be a vertical space, also under the table

'''Small tools and accessories'''
* Hose for tap to help with screen washout

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-13T22:03:21Z

Jo dkbt: /* Issues to be resolved to commission */

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces and also the screens themselves, inconveniencing other screenprinters by making screens unusable.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Set-up items / wishlist ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench (as in craft room but somewhat deeper) -- 2 x Finnvard trestles or sheet with screw adjusters (found)
* Space to store screens -- can be a vertical space, also under the table

'''Small tools and accessories'''
* Hose for tap to help with screen washout

Equipment/Screenprinting

2016-01-04T16:53:10Z

Jo dkbt:

{{OrangeTool}}

[[File:Area_photo_20151222_thumb.jpg|right|Screenprinting area]]

== Summary ==

Screenprinting is a manual printing technique using liquid ink and a stencil to create permanent images on sheets of paper, card or fabric or pre-existing items such as t-shirts and cotton shopping bags. Due to the amount of work required for set-up before and clean-up after printing, the process is most suitable for printing multiple identical items in one session such as a set of t-shirts or posters.

A screen is a frame with a fine polyester mesh stretched across it which carries a stencil. The printing process applies liquid ink/paint in one colour at a time using a squeegee. The stencil on the screen-mesh works in a similar way to stencils in other art processes: some areas of the screen are left open and others are blocked. This determines where ink is deposited onto the piece and thus creates a design or image. The result is a thin film of ink applied to the workpiece.

Makespace supports waterbased screenprinting on paper, fabric and other materials up to A2 size.

Now commissioned and available for use. Please read through the wiki and see Training below for videos and book available at Makespace.

=== Making stencils ===
There are many ways to create stencils, including cutting paper or sticky vinyl and also photographic emulsions.
At Makespace we support vinyl and paper stencils. Vinyl stencils can be made on the vinyl cutter. Paper stencils can be cut with scissors or craft knives or on the laser cutter, if you are already trained on it.

You will probably need to try different types of stencil to work out which kind of stencil works best for your design.
Factors include the level of detail in the design and whether there are any 'islands' such as the inside of a letter 'o'.

Note: We do not currently support photographic methods at Makespace due to lack of a darkroom and lightsafe storage area. It is possible to create photographic stencils at home and bring the finished screen in to print with at Makespace.
But please do not take Makespace screens away from Makespace.

=== Main steps in the screenprinting process ===

0. If you are new to screenprinting, read the wiki, a book or watch the videos before starting a session. Once there is wet ink on the screen the actual printing should be done without any breaks to read instructions etc. or the ink will dry into the screen and damage it.
# Create a stencil and attach it to the screen (or use a screen with stencil prepared previously) [[CreatingScreenprintingStencils|more details]]
# Select or mix the appropriate ink for fabric or paper (by default a 50/50 mix of pigment/paint and print medium)
# Print things. More details for printing on [[ScreenprintingOnFabric|fabric]] and [[ScreenprintingOnPaper|paper/non-fabric]]
# Clean up: Reclaim ink where possible then clean screens and tools immediately. Wash ink from hands afterwards.
# Pay for any Makespace materials used (ink, all paper including test prints, cotton bags etc.)
# Fabric only: Once ink has dried, heat-fix any prints using the iron or heatpress

For more details follow the links above or see section on '''Training''' below.

== Owners ==
* Jo Brook
* Matthew Taylor

== Training ==
See owners for occasional demos.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACgxOdNB8MI| Daler Rowney System 3 Screenprinting Demo (video)]

[http://www.instructables.com/id/Using-vinyl-stencil-to-silk-screen/?ALLSTEPS| Screenprinting with vinyl cutter stencil (instructions)]

Book: ''The Art Teacher's Guide to Water Based Screen Printing'' by Dave Fortune, kept in (and should always be returned to) the printing area.

==Warnings==
Waterbased screenprinting does not have serious hazards as a process but without due care the ink can permanently damage various items in the space. This includes yours (or others') clothes or workpieces and also the screens themselves, inconveniencing other screenprinters by making screens unusable.

Take care when moving the larger and heavier pieces of equipment, especially if there are other people passing through the space.

===Safety===
* The main printbed and platen are solid and relatively heavy so take care when reversing the platen to or from t-shirt to flat-item-printing mode.
* The drawers in the plan chest are heavy and can be pulled all the way out of the chest. Be careful and pull them out slowly and not beyond around half way.
* After cleaning ink from the equipment also wash it off your hands

===Care of personal items and shared equipment===
* Screenprinting ink will stain clothes, since it is designed to dye fabric permanently. So wear an apron while printing and pay attention to stray bits of ink, wiping hands and equipment with tissue paper if needed during the session.
* Ink is liquid so work with care not to let splashes of it get onto other people's work. This applies especially when washing the screen out as the diluted ink can still stain and is more likely to splash than when the ink is in its print thickness.
* Wash out the screen immediately after the last item has been printed. Waterbased ink starts drying into the screen as soon as you are not actively printing to force new ink through the mesh. Prompt washout will help remove as much ink as possible which will help shared screens to be ready for the next user.

== House Rules ==

The facilities are shared and the printing area is small and located in a busy area. So there are some house rules for using this equipment.

===Ink / paint===
* Makespace supports waterbased printing only, whether you are using Makespace shared equipment or some of your own.
So, as a guide, do not use any inks, paints or varnishes which cannot be removed from the screen using just water and washing up liquid. (Non-waterbased printing is offered by some of the specialist printmaking studios in Cambridge.)
* You may bring in and use your own ink if it is waterbased. If it is not one of the inks already in stock, check the procedure for bringing chemical products into Makespace: [[Hazardous_Materials]]. Most suitable inks will be the ones which don't have hazard warnings. If in doubt about ink, ask the owners or on the forum before using it in Makespace.

===Screens===
Makespace has a small number of shared screens which are intended for short-term use and learning.

As they are shared this means that:
* No permanent stencils should be applied to screens. These are only usually needed for print runs in the 1000s of items.
* You should aim to finish your printing in one session if possible and remove the stencil at the end of the session.
* For large print runs and longer-term use, we recommend buying or making your own screen(s).

== Equipment ==

'''Screenprinting frame:'''
* Hinge clamps to hold screen during session
* Reversible bed with:
** Hinged platen for printing larger t-shirts, tote bags etc. (Pull t-shirt over platen to stop ink printing through to the back layer)
** Flat surface for printing onto paper and other single-layer materials

'''Print-drying rack''' 20 spring-loaded A2 wire shelves

'''Plan chest''' A1 primarily for storage of papers and flat items. Currently in use for screen-drying until a dedicated rack is constructed.

'''Screens'''
outer w x h (max printable area w x h)
Thread-count: Approximately 28T

* 1 x 31cm x 32cm (21cm x 22cm)
* 2 x 45cm x 58cm (35cm x 48cm)
* 3 x 56cm x 77cm (40cm x 60cm)

'''Squeegees'''

{|
|-
| For textile printing D or V-profile blades are used. These blade profiles lay down extra ink which is used to get a solid print on the fabric surface as some is absorbed into the fibres:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width, V-profile blade
*1 x 15" (38cm) width, round profile blade
| [[File:Squeegee blades vprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|-
| For printing on paper and other non-fabrics and less absorbent surfaces use square-profile blades which lay down less ink and give a sharper print:
*1 x 8" (20cm) width
*1 x 12" (30.5cm) width
| [[File:Squeegee blades squareprofile.jpg|200px|right|alt text]]
|}

'''Washout'''
*Shower attachment for tap

'''Other small tools:'''
* Palette knife (for transferring ink to/from the screen)

'''Protective clothing:'''
* Printer's aprons (2)

== Stock ==

'''Supplies'''
* Unprinted newsprint paper, A2+ sheets (50x70cm)
For test printing and creation of paper stencils (using manual cutting or lasercutter)
This is not considered printing paper stock as it will yellow in sunlight and is thus not suited to making finished products
* Washing-up liquid

'''Inks, pigments and mediums'''
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (paper/general use)
* System 3 Acrylic print medium (fabric)
* System 3 Acrylic pigments for colour mixing: Black, white, yellow, red, blue, silver
* Permaset Aqua Fabric Magic -- print-ready (pre-mixed) fabric inks: Black, green

'''Cotton Shopping Bags'''
*Arum 5oz fair trade natural cotton bag 42cm(h)x38cm(w), long handles

'''High-quality art paper'''
* A2+ 250gsm printing paper. £1.30 per sheet.

== Documents ==

[[File:RiskAssessmentScreenprinting.pdf|Risk Assessment]]

[https://docs.google.com/document/d/126icVaL26e7uN-MAWLglC6a8GTyMyNR_htLq6toFI80/edit?usp=sharing Guide sheet]

== Set-up items / wishlist ==

'''Workbench, drying area and storage'''
* Adjustable-height bench (as in craft room but somewhat deeper) -- 2 x Finnvard trestles or sheet with screw adjusters (found)
* Space to store screens -- can be a vertical space, also under the table

'''Small tools and accessories'''
* Hose for tap to help with screen washout

== Issues to be resolved to commission ==
* '''How to charge for materials''' Suggestion is to charge for print by size rather than ink.
Stencils made on the vinyl cutter would be charged as for other vinyl cutting.

* '''Methods to Allow/Support'''
** '''Printing methods'''
*** Allow only Water-based printing -- oil-based methods require toxic products, specialist disposal, ventilation etc.
*** Allow printing using any screens which have stencils compatible with water-based inks. This includes photo-stencils created offsite.

** '''Stencil-making methods'''
The following dry stencil-making methods will be trained or recommended:
* '''Paper-cut stencils'''
Using the thin newsprint paper provided, stencils can be made by manual cutting (or tearing) using scalpels or scissors. For trained users, lasercutting can also be used.
* '''Vinyl-cut stencils'''
Based on trial sessions, recommend using vinyl on the squeegee side for durability of stencil. Needs care when weeding especially on small details and lettering.

Note: We cannot reliably support photo-stencil creation, mainly because it requires a space which is guaranteed to be dark during the exposure.
A small darkroom or walk-in cupboard would be needed for this, and a light-safe screen-drying rack.
If there is demand, this is something we could think about, maybe for the future space.

* What classification?
Safe enough to be green but maybe should be orange as would like opportunities to make people aware of good practices to avoid wastage and ruined screens when sharing the equipment. Posters above the area would be useful to remind people to washout immediately after use etc.

* Training session formats
Probably need to run sessions focusing on either fabric or paper printing. If trainees need to demonstrate their learning then sessions will probably be 2-3 people for around 3 hours.

* '''Storage of screens during work in progress''' Printing several colours may take longer than one session, as each colour needs to dry. So a user should label their screens with a name and date on masking tape. The policy on re-using screens could be similar to the private stock cupboard.

File:Area photo 20151222 thumb.jpg

2016-01-04T15:19:56Z

Jo dkbt: Screenprinting area

Screenprinting area

ScreenprintingOnFabric

2015-12-28T01:50:42Z

Jo dkbt: /* Printing session */

== Screenprinting on Fabric ==

=== Summary ===

==== Preparation ====

# Choose suitable fabric
# Prepare a screen and stencil
# Select ready-mixed fabric-printing ink or mix ink using pigment and '''fabric''' print medium

==== Printing session ====

# Prepare test paper pieces
# Clear space in drying rack
# Select '''D or V-profile''' squeegee
# Print on fabric or items
# Wash screen, equipment and hands
# Log activity and pay for any Makespace materials by items x print size

==== Finishing session ====

# After items are dry, heat-fix with iron or heatpress