DIY Screen Printing
overview
we love the clever use of an embroidery hoop to engineer your own simple screen for printing. make your shapes big and simple. when you print them, overlap the colors for a layered design.
and, whether you’re printing on paper or canvas, you can add stitching or other details to embellish your piece!
1 hour + drying time
maker checklist
- embroidery hoop (8- to 12-inches diameter)
- silk screen mesh (12- to 18-inches square)
- sharpie
- mod podge and foam brush
- screen printing inks
- canvas or heavy paper (to print on)
instructions
1
design a shape for your print. bold and simple is best!
2
place the silk mesh into the hoop. tighten to secure, and make sure the mesh is taught.
3
lay the hoop, mesh side down, over your design and trace with a sharpie.
4
set the screen over newspaper or a table cover, mesh side up. paint with mod podge over all the areas that are *not* part of the design. this is called masking. let dry completely.
tip!
add a bit of color paint to the mod podge so you cam see it more easily.
4
set the screen onto your paper or canvas, mash side down. add a dollop of paint to the edge and drag it across the design using a scrap of cardboard. continue until the design is evenly covered.
5
lift the screen carefully to prevent smudging and repeat!
6
print more! rinse your screen carefully in between colors, and dry with a paper towel. layering shapes is great, just let each color dry before setting the screen onto it again.
7
frame your piece by sandwiching it between two wooden paint paddles and securing with bulldog clips. run a cord or ribbon through the holes of the clips and hang!
