What is silkscreening?

Silkscreening, also known as screen printing, is a versatile printing technique that involves pushing ink through a mesh screen onto a substrate, such as fabric, paper, or plastic. The process begins with a design that is first created on a transparent film. This film is then used to coat a screen with a light-sensitive emulsion. When exposed to light, the areas of the emulsion that are not blocked by the design harden, while the rest remains water-soluble and can be washed away, leaving a stencil of the design. Once the screen is prepared, ink is applied to the top of the screen and spread using a squeegee. The ink passes through the open areas of the stencil and onto the substrate below, thus transferring the design. This method is popular for producing custom t-shirts, posters, and various promotional items due to its ability to produce vibrant colors and long-lasting prints. Silkscreening can be done by hand or with automated machines, making it suitable for both small and large production runs. It offers the advantage of printing on different materials and surfaces, making it an appealing choice for many artists, businesses, and hobbyists alike.