Figure 3 INK FILM DEPOSITED ONTO FABRIC SURFACE 1/32˝ TO 1/16˝ OC * Proper off-contact allows for minimal squeegee pressure and thinner printed ink films. FABRIC Figure 4 minimal squeegee pressure. Having the screens properly tensioned should allow you to set the screen's off-contact distance to 1⁄32" to 1⁄16" off-contact. Having that variable controlled also will control squeegee pressure and allow for the depositing of the ink onto the surface of the fabric and avoid driving the ink into the fabric (Figure 3). STEP 4: INK SELECTION Another challenge when printing 100% polyester fabrics is determining which of the many polyester inks currently available on the market will perform the best on your fabric. The primary aspects most printers look for in a polyester screen printing ink are: 1. Bleed resistance 2. Printability 3. Good elongation 4. Flashing characteristics 5. Opacity Although there are many good products on the market, it is left to the printer to properly test the ink on the fabric to ensure it will perform to the client's satisfaction. From the standpoint of ease of use, you will want a polyester ink that has a smooth printability that passes through the screen mesh easily, cuts off cleanly from the squeegee and allows for a smooth print on the fabric surface. * Minimal squeegee pressure is required due to the low off contact and correct screen tension. 14 * Fall 2014 STEP 5: PRINTING TECHNIQUES: SQUEEGEE PRESSURE When initially setting up the press (on an automatic press), you will want to start with minimal squeegee pressure (due to the previously mentioned minimal off-contact). The only objective here is to bring the screen in contact with the fabric to allow for the even transferring of ink onto the fabric's surface. The same parameters also apply to a manual press.