Basic screen printing technique:

Steps in making a basic screen printing screen with drawing fluid.

To apply the drawing fluid you will need:

-Screen printing frame -Drawing fluid -Paint brushes -Scissors-Tape-Image you want to transfer  -A squeegee-Newspaper-A spoon-A stiff brush

Step 1: Find/draw/create an image you want to print. For this method thin lines and intricate detail are not impossible but are difficult to achieve so keep that in mind.

Step 2: Tape the image loosely to the recessed side of the frame so that you can see it through the screen.

Step 3: Using a paint brush (smaller brushes mean finer lines, bigger brushes mean more coverage) transfer your image to your screen with the drawing fluid. Be careful not to put too much drawing fluid on the screen at one time, it will pool and create thick gloppy areas that we do not want because they won't wash out.

Step 4: Remove the taped image and check the image on your screen by holding it up to a light source to find any small areas that need another layer of drawing fluid to ensure you've thoroughly filled it in.

Step 5: Wash your paint brush(es) and let the drawing fluid dry thoroughly, at least 3 to 4 hours. It might take less if you have less fluid to dry.

Step 6: Lay down newspaper or something to protect your working surface

Step 7: Place your screen down, flat side up.

Step 8: Get your screen filler and shake well.

Step 9: Open the bottle and carefully pour onto one side. Don't be stingey! If you don't have enough filler it won't spread smoothly and then all your work will be ruined and you'll have to start over. However, don't pour so much that it's dripping over the edge. Practice will help to master this delicate balance. (Worse case scenario: You make a horrible mess and it doesn't spread nicely, run it to a sink and wash it out quickly. You'll have to do the drawing fluid steps over again but it beats having to either buy screen cleaner or replace the mesh completely).

Step 10: Taking your squeegee and gently but quickly pull the filler to cover the entire screen on one direct only. Any excess filler can be returned back to the bottle if possible or washed with a wet sponge. BE VERY CAREFUL when you're cleaning up the frame that no stray water drops hit your frame – until the screen filler is dry it will be marred by water.

Step 11: Let the frame dry again thoroughly – this time overnight would be best.

Step 12: Once the frame is dry, take it to the sink and run cold water on your frame. The drawing fluid is water soluble and will dissolve in the water, leaving you an excellent durable stencil to print with! If you have a little bit of trouble with screen filler blocking areas that had drawing fluid in it, try scrubbing with a rough paint brush or stipple brush.

Now you’re ready to start printing!