Impressions - June/July 2016 - 29

mesh counts with proper printing parameters will achieve a soft hand,
the effect only can be enhanced by eliminating the plastisol underbase and using a standard water-based, discharge white or base ink.
Although the devil can be in the details with standard plastisol and
water-based ink, there are only a few basic differences.
The Secrets: First, print on a reactive-dyed garment that will
yield acceptable results during the discharge process. Review the
garment manufacturer's discharge information for details. Use a waterresistant emulsion for the discharge screen and an exposure
calculator. Post-expose the screen to ensure durability. Use a
squeegee with a soft printing edge, such as a standard 70-durometer
or 70/90/70. This will allow for proper ink transfer onto the fabric.
Ensure the discharge underbase is properly dried following the
flash prior to overprinting with plastisol. Also, make sure your dryer
actually is capable of curing water-based ink films. Many printers
with straight infrared dryers do not have the capability to properly
drive the water-based ink from the fabric to achieve a proper cure.
Also, always wash test a print prior to starting production.
Mesh counts for discharge underbase prints should be 140-160
and 200-230 for plastisol overprints. On large runs, always monitor
for color shifts from possible lot-to-lot dye variations in the fabric.
Although water-based printing appears intimidating to many, the
key to success is to do your homework on the process and conduct
proper testing prior to production.

Screen Printing Products

4. Paperless Order Tracking
Many facilities have maximized efficiencies and minimized errors
by eliminating paper work orders from the production workflow.
Production-management software packages that now are available
can help streamline processes, and some shops have developed their
own software to fit their particular systems.
Still, other shops have taken this process to the next level, and it is
relatively easy to find facilities that have computerized order tracking
with backup paper work orders.
The Secret: Cutting-edge shops have eliminated paperwork
altogether by putting computer terminals and workstations on the
production floor, or having tablets for managers and press operators.
This allows for accurate, real-time tracking of screen-making efficiencies; orders; art status; screens; garments; inks; packaging; quality
control and shipping; production efficiency; and more.
When properly implemented, the entire facility can adopt a paperless process that starts with sales and order entry, and progresses
through to the final stages of invoicing and shipping.
5. Controlling Ink Viscosity
As necessity is the mother of invention, I am constantly amazed at
the ingenuity of textile screen printers when there is a need to resolve an issue. I found the following resolution at a Minnesota facility
particularly ingenious.

Sign up at impressionsmag.com to get the Impressions Product Guide to
Screen Printing Equipment and Supplies, which will be emailed July 19.
1. Anatol Volt
The all-electric Volt allows you to print with precision, control and ease,
according to the company  No leaks or unreliable air pressure equals
consistent, quality printing  Features servo-electric motors for smooth,
quiet operation
Use Info⋅Action #400 at impressionsmag.com/infoaction

2. CorelDRAW Graphics Suite X8
Corel's new flagship graphics solution  Makes professional design, web
graphics and image editing workflows faster and simpler, according to the
company  New functionality speeds and streamlines the creative process
Use Info⋅Action #401 at impressionsmag.com/infoaction

3. Brown Manufacturing Group ElectraPrint Stealth Series
Only all-electric automatic printer available in United States, according to the
company  Offers speed, simplicity and low maintenance for high-volume
facilities  Pairs well with UltraSierra X-Series or AirPony curing systems
Use Info⋅Action #402 at impressionsmag.com/infoaction

4. Florida Flexible Screen Printing Products
Large selection of plastisol glitter inks ready to print  Glitter flakes are
available by the pound

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5

Use Info⋅Action #403 at impressionsmag.com/infoaction

5. RhinoTech RhinoClean Screen Cleaning Products
Includes SWG 145C Screen Wash that also is available in a soy-based option
 DGG Degreaser, APG 1000 plastisol ink and emulsion remover, and PWG 122
Press Wash help eliminate plastisols  PWG 125 Press Wash, SWG 210 Screen
Wash and more products are available
Use Info⋅Action #404 at impressionsmag.com/infoaction

6. Lawson Screen & Digital Products Focus Computer-to-Screen System
Direct-to-screen industrial inkjet printer  For small- to mid-sized shops
 Compact and easy to use with little technical expertise  Reduces costs
and on-press registration time, according to the company
Use Info⋅Action #405 at impressionsmag.com/infoaction

JUNE/JULY 2016

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Impressions - June/July 2016

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