CreatingScreenprintingStencils

Creating a Stencil

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

Summary

1. Choose the method best suited to your design
2. Choose lasercut or handcut paper or cut sticky vinyl. Note: only people trained on the lasercutter can use it.
3. Remember to pay for any newsprint paper and/or sticky vinyl used

Paper stencils

• Use newsprint paper (50 gsm). This is thin and will cling to the screen when wetted with ink.

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.