Today, we're sharing practical advice on using PrintGRIP for both automated and manual screen printing setups. Let’s get started!
STARTING RIGHT WITH A SLOW AND SMOOTH APPLICATION
Your first step should involve high-quality pallet tape being applied. This premium tape ensures that when it's time to remove it, you can do so cleanly. Chad highlights the importance of correctly positioning your PrintGRIP. Begin by partially removing the backing just a few inches to allow for adjustment and alignment on the platen.
Using a squeegee or better yet a plastic ink card, slowly remove the bottom sheet while simultaneously smoothing down the PrintGRIP to eliminate air bubbles. The slick top surface aids in easy squeegee movement, essential for a neat application.
ADJUSTING TACKINESS
Once in place, you may find PrintGRIP very sticky. This level of stickiness is ideal for heavier garments like hoodies, but might be too much for lighter fabrics. If it’s too tacky, Chad suggests pressing it with a sweatshirt to pick up some lint, naturally reducing the stickiness without affecting the overall grip.
For smaller or specially-shaped platens, trimming PrintGRIP before application is advisable to avoid edges that could snag on garments during use.
RELATED: STEP UP YOUR SCREENPRINTING GAME WITH PRINTGRIP
EASY CLEANING OF PRINTGRIP
Cleaning PrintGRIP is simple—a mix of water and a bit of dish soap helps dissolve any leftover ink and softens the fibers of used shirts, facilitating the cleaning process. Focus on cleaning only the used areas to avoid extra work.
FLEECE AND VARIED TACK LEVELS
For fleece and similarly textured materials, you may need to clean printGRIP at the same frequency you apply tack. In special cases, it is possible to apply additional Water Based Adhesive or Spray Tack to achieve a super tacky surface. Just be sure to clean off all residue to keep your printGRIP grippin’ for longevity.
CONCLUSION
PrintGRIP not only improves production efficiency but also promotes a cleaner, more sustainable work environment by reducing aerosols in the air, excessive waste, and overall costs.
Whether you're just starting out or are an experienced printer, integrating PrintGRIP into your setup can lead to higher quality prints and less mess.
Experiment, learn, and perfect your screen printing technique with PrintGRIP. Try it in your production and notice the difference firsthand!