Vintage Printing From Screen To Press | Deep Dive With Colin

The focus for this Deep Dive is on two key elements from recent videos: the fashion soft additive used in the Made in America print for that perfect softness and fade, and the vintage white effect from the last session. Additionally, a new distressing effect will be introduced to make them truly unique.

RELATED: HOW TO CREATE TONAL PRINTS

CRAFTING TIMELESS DESIGNS

STEP 1: DESIGN PREPARATION IN ILLUSTRATOR AND PHOTOSHOP

The goal is to create a design that looks like it's been cherished for decades. First, the process begins in Illustrator and will use Photoshop to add a distressing filter. The right filter can transform the design, so it's essential to choose one that fits the vision. Whether the preference is for the natural look of a Photoshop distressing filter or the control of a vector version, both can add the perfect touch of age.

STEP 2: APPLYING DISTRESSING FILTERS

There are two main types of distressing filters:

• Photoshop Types (TIFF, Grayscale, Bitmap): These can offer a more natural, worn look.
• Vector Versions: These can sometimes feel too mechanical, but adjusting the size and knocking out pieces can help. Plus, a vector distressing can greatly simplify the process.

RELATED: HOW TO SCREEN PRINT A VINTAGE LOOK

For a natural effect, a Photoshop bitmap filter is recommended. This type feels like parts of the design have naturally worn off over time, adding authenticity.

STEP 3: CREATING THE SCREEN FOR PRINTING

Once the design is ready, it's time to make screens and print through higher mesh counts (230 to 305 mesh). Modifying the inks with fashion soft and printing through these fine screens allows shirt fibers to come through the ink. This technique gives the shirt a look that’s been through many wash cycles, enhancing its vintage charm.

STEP 4: PRINTING AND INK MODIFICATION

Using Rio RFU colors and fashion soft, the inks are mixed and printed on white shirts as a control. The result is a sharp, clean print that feels incredibly soft and integrated into the fabric. Different shirt colors will affect how the colors appear, with darker shirts muting the colors but still maintaining the vintage effect.

For brighter prints on darker shirts, using a white underbase can help maintain vibrancy while affecting the softness slightly. Discharge printing works best to keep the hand of the print super soft and a deeper exploration of this will be covered in the next session.

RELATED: PHOTOSHOP FOR SCREEN PRINTING: ADVANCED COLOR SEPARATIONS

TIPS FOR A PERFECT VINTAGE PRINT

• Isolate Elements: Use the eraser tool to customize the distressing effect by isolating elements of the design.
• Experiment with Mesh Counts: Higher mesh counts allow for finer details and more shirt fibers to show through.
• Adjust Contrast: Duplicating layers and adjusting contrast in Photoshop can help enhance the distressing effect.
• Try Different Filters: Don’t be afraid to experiment with both Photoshop and vector filters to find the perfect look.