PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN AND APPLICATION

Lesson 10: Methods of Producing Designs on Textiles: Printing, Dyeing & Painting

Screen Printing

Screen printing is a method of applying coloured design with the help of screen. It may be that is done either by hand or by an automated process. It is generally used for bold designs. A screen is prepared for each colour of the design. Screens are prepared from polyester/ nylon or metal mesh. In screen printing the motif is drawn and rest of the area of screen is blocked with lacquer solution (enamel paint) or photochemical method. The pigment is applied on screen; the open motif area of screen gives impression on the fabric. Screen printing is the most versatile of all printing processes. A significant characteristic of screen printing is that a greater thickness of the dye can be applied to the substrate than is not possible with other printing techniques. More intense and brighter prints can be produced in screen printing than in roller printing. It is generally uses for bold motif.

Screen printing has cer­tain advantages over roller printing also. Thus it can afford a convenient method of producing larger repeats than those possible in roller printing and hence it provides greater scope in styling especially in furnishing fabrics. The printer is able to print very short runs economically in screen printing. Screen printing is gaining popularity among youth as evident from the unique designs on T-shirts (Fig.10.2). In an age where digital glossiness and immaculate finishes are the norm, screen-printing offers something different having tactile properties.