Screenprinting 101: Photo emulsion

To use the photo emulsion process, you will need:

• Gloves
• An emulsion kit
• Something to mix with
• Drop cloth
• Squeegee

Grab some gloves and mix the photo emulsion as outlined in the directions in your packaging. The color should be uniform to let you know when it is fully mixed.

Dab enough emulsion on the screen to fully coat it using your squeegee.

The screen should have a thin and even layer of emulsion. Make sure to coat both sides.

Find a dark place to let the screen dry.

Make sure there are no light leaks. The screen should dry in less than 24 hours and should last about four weeks in complete darkness.

Refrigerate the remaining emulsion for future use. It should last about four weeks.

Resources:

Different Types of Photo Emulsion (Technical Video)

Photo Emulsion: Practice makes perfect!

Alternative Methods:

Screen Filler Method - Positive

Screen Filler Method - Negative

Screen Printing 101: Constructing a screen

Screen Printing 101: Constructing your first screen!

You'll need:

• A preconstructed or DIY frame (either wood or aluminum is preferred).
• A stapler or non water-soluble glue.
• Scissors.
• Mesh to put on your screen.  A higher mesh number indicates a finer screen and is best for detailed designs.

Tacos and beer are always optional. Don't get crazy with the staple gun.

• Leave about four inches of extra mesh on each side of the frame.
• Staple once on one side of the frame, then the opposite, then the right and the left. Be careful not to pull the mesh too tight at this point.
• Continue adding staples one by one, rotating the screen in the same way, while increasing the tautness of the mesh.

After you finish stapling and your screen is extremely taut, trim the excess mesh.

Optional: Add duct tape to protect your wooden frame and to make your construction look cleaner.

Your first screen.

Further resources:
You don't have money and want to silk screen (a solid video)

Building a silk screen with staples (video)

Building a silk screen using glue (video)

Building a silk screen using glue (second video)

Fancy schmancy screen stretching I (video)

Fancy schmancy screen stretching II (video)