FUNCTIONAL OFF CONTACT
In this episode, Colin breaks down the concept of "off contact" in screen printing, focusing on how the distance between the screen and substrate impacts print quality. He explains that functional off contact is key to achieving clean prints without smudging or ink buildup. By adjusting this distance, Colin shows how you can improve your prints' sharpness and consistency, especially when working with thicker inks. This video is packed with practical tips for fine-tuning your press settings to get professional results.
EMULSION OVER MESH (EOM)
Colin takes a deep dive into Emulsion Over Mesh (EOM), a critical factor in screen exposure and print quality. He covers what EOM means, how to measure it, and why it's essential for achieving detailed prints. By managing the thickness of the emulsion layer relative to the mesh, Colin demonstrates how to balance durability and detail in your stencils. This episode is a must-watch for screen printers looking to enhance their understanding of emulsion application for different printing needs.
RELATED: MESH COUNT AND YOU
SHORT VS LONG BODY INKS
In the first episode of the series, Colin explores the differences between short-bodied and long-bodied inks, highlighting how each type behaves during the printing process. He discusses the viscosity, ease of use, and drying times for both types, giving insights on when to choose one over the other. Whether you're aiming for smooth coverage or intricate details, Colin provides guidance on which ink type will work best for your specific projects, making this episode a valuable resource for any screen printer.
DIMENSIONAL PUFF PRINTING
Colin delves into the world of puff printing, explaining how to create eye-catching, dimensional prints with puff additives. He covers everything from mixing the ink to adjusting your press settings for the perfect puff effect. This episode is filled with creative ideas on how to use puff printing to add texture and visual interest to your designs, making it a great watch for printers looking to expand their techniques and offer something unique to their clients.
RELATED: TAKE YOUR PRINTS TO THE THIRD DIMENSION
VINTAGE PRINTING FROM SCREEN TO PRESS
In this episode, Colin shares his expertise on achieving that perfect vintage look in screen printing. He walks through the entire process, from designing with a vintage aesthetic in mind to selecting the right inks and substrates for an authentic feel. Colin's tips on ink distressing and using halftones to mimic wear-and-tear give printers the tools they need to produce prints that look like they've been aged to perfection. If you're aiming to capture the retro vibe in your screen prints, this episode is essential viewing.
SEND IN YOUR QUESTIONS
Colin's deep dives are a goldmine of knowledge for screen printers looking to perfect their craft. Each of these episodes offers practical advice and creative inspiration that can help you stand out in a competitive industry.
Got questions or topics you'd like Colin to cover in his next deep dive? We'd love to hear from you! Submit your own screen printing questions, and you might see them answered in an upcoming episode. So, grab your screens, fire up your press, and start applying these tips in your next print run. Happy printing!
