Ink is applied to a surface using the common printing technique known as screen printing using a mesh screen. There are several restrictions on what may be printed with this process, despite it being a flexible and economical one. A number of things can cause some sections of a screen print to be blank. This article will discuss what screen printing leaves blank as well as address some frequently asked questions about beginning a printing company in India and creating silk screens.
First of all, it’s critical to comprehend that screen printing requires creating the design using a stencil. On the mesh screen, the stencil is made by obstructing specific regions so that no ink can pass through. As a result, any space that the stencil does not cover will be left empty. This means that little text or complicated designs might not be appropriate for screen printing because it might be challenging to make a stencil that faithfully captures the design.
The kind of ink used can also cause some screen printing regions to be left blank. Some ink types might not work well with specific materials or might not be able to attach to surfaces correctly. Furthermore, some inks might not be able to achieve the desired hue or opacity, which could leave some spaces blank or make them look faded.
In this regard, starting a printing company in India can be a successful business venture, although it does take some upfront cash. Depending on the kind of printing supplies and equipment required, starting a printing firm in India might cost a variety of amounts. A more sophisticated system can cost up to Rs. 5,00,000 or more, while a basic configuration might cost anywhere between Rs. 50,000 and Rs. 1,000,000.
Although screen printing is not inherently difficult, it does take some time to get the hang of it. It can be difficult to make stencils and line the screen correctly, and it might take some trial and error to get good prints. However, anyone can learn how to screen print with time, effort, and patience.
Last but not least, you can create your own silk screens for screen printing. Stretching a mesh screen over a wooden frame and covering it in a light-sensitive emulsion are required for this. The emulsion is subsequently exposed to light through a stencil, hardening it where it has been exposed. After washing away the exposed parts, the screen will have a stencil on it. Even though it is feasible to manufacture your own screens, beginners to screen printing may find it more cost-effective to buy pre-made screens.
In conclusion, screen printing is a flexible and affordable printing technique, but it is not without drawbacks. Due to the complexity of the design or the type of ink used, certain parts can still be blank. It can be a terrific opportunity to start a printing company in India, but this does require some initial capital. Although screen printing is not inherently difficult, it does take some time to get the hang of it. While making your own silk screens is a possibility, buying pre-made screens might be more advantageous.
A frame, a mesh screen, emulsion, a squeegee, ink, and a substrate (the material being printed on) are required for silk screen printing. Additionally, you would need some tools for setting up the screen and cleaning up after printing, as well as a darkroom or other enclosed location with a light source.