How To: Make Picture Frame Silk Screens

We seemed to have missed the high school art class where most people learned how to silkscreen, so while we've heard lots of times how easy the process is, we've remained a bit mystified...

But after watching Michelle SaintOnge's demonstration on Martha today, we might finally be up to the challenge. Her instructions include several pet-inspired templates to use, but of course making your own would be a bit more fun. Have you made a silkscreen print before? Any tips?

Image: t-dot-s-dot

Comments (7)

it's an interesting method but it would be much less of a hassle to just get the screen made at a screen printing supplier. they're fairly cheap and of course reusable. all you'd have to buy after that is the paper, ink, and squeegee instead of having to fuss with making your own screen out of a curtain and picture frame.

FYI, for those in new york, a good place to go is standard screen on varick street. great shop.

burning screens is incredibly fast, easy, and clean, however, my big issue is the clean up after printing - unless you have outdoor space and a hose you are going to end up with a bathtub area requiring a lot of cleaning.

i took an independent study in printmaking in high school.. they just remodeled and didnt want to ruin the new carpet.. so no silk screening.
i carved a few linoleum stamps in the first weeks of that semester.. then used that period to do my homework for other classes the remainder of the year.
I got an A.

i went up and learned how to print in Chicago from Steve at the Screwball press. Great one day "workshop" and i learned a lot. I had know how to print a bit beforehand, did it a couple times in my bathroom, but wanted more details. Took one day and left with 50 posters. Not a bad setup. I have all the equipment here, just gotta find the time to do it (an of course space). When we get a house i am having a wash tub setup and everything for printing.

There are kits where you can expose premade screens to normal lamp light and wash with water. After drying, you can print with acrylic paint or water soluable printers ink. Small screens are easy cleanup in the kitchen sink, and the designs can be repeated on big surfaces like curtains...

My tip is take a class or workshop where you can try it and see if you like it well enough to get a kit.

I have a minor in Silk Screening and after buying tons of screens and materials... for the money I would suggest if you are just looking to start out or experiment.

Get a small kit, preferably by screwball, make sure it has drawing fluid and filler. You will get all your basic colors and tools and be able to draw whatever you want and wash it out in your bath tub when you are done, with no harsh chemicals.

If you want a larger screen then just purchase a wood one, they work and hold up fine, and are much cheaper then metal. Just take care of it, don't let any image sit on it for too long.