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How to Use Transparency in Silk Screen Printing

Silk screen printing can allow you to print permanently on almost any material and have great, professional-looking results in moments. Transparencies are a key part of the silk screening if you are using the photo-emulsion process. Using transparencies allows you to create your own design on your screen and subsequently your printed item.

Things You'll Need

  • Transparencies for your type of printer
  • Graphics program, such as Illustrator or Photoshop
  • Screen
  • Photo emulsion
  • Squeegee
  • Florescent light box
  • Black construction paper
  • Small weights
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Instructions

    • 1

      Check your style of printer. For example, if you have an inkjet printer or laser printer, buy transparencies for your type of printer from an office supply store. Take your design into a graphic design program, and tone it to two colors: black and white. When you print your transparency, the black areas will be the areas printed on your final item.

    • 2

      Print your design onto the transparencies. Coat your screen with photo emulsion, using a squeegee. Allow the screen to dry for a few hours.

    • 3

      Place the transparency on top of your light table, and center it under your screen. Place your screen on top of the transparency and light table, using the black paper and weights to cover the top of the screen, and expose your screen to the fluorescent lights.

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