Goal
The goal of this exercise is to develop the proper technique for taping a screen for printing and setting registration guides.
Objective
The objective of this exercise is to tape the edges of a screen, create simple artwork with tape, and set registration guides.
Background Reading
- MacDougall, Chapter 7, p 86–93
- Taping Video demo (TBA)
- Registration Video demo (TBA)
Exercise
Taping the edges, unused and unwanted spaces of a screen with clear packing tape will control ink flow, prevent damage and keep a cleaner work area.
Part One
Using the assigned screen, load the screen in the assigned press. Tighten the hinge clamps and the registration wing nuts. Once tightened, do not move the screen. Starting with the edge closest to you, tear a section of packing tape the width of the frame, plus about 4–5 inches. With both hands, afix the tape in a right angle to the mesh and the frame so ink cannot get into the crack. Use the remaining end of the tape to create a fold over tab for easier removal later. Continue in a counter clockwise manner until all four edges are sealed.
Part Two
Using the grid on the print table, apply a tape mask around a 5 x 7 in center area of the screen. Precision is not essential, but the location is critical. Leave a minimum of 3–4 inches on all sides. Continue to place tape on the edges until only the center remains open. Finally, using the packing tape, create a basic set of vertical lines in the open space. Again, precision is not necessary, but the tape should extend well past the 5 x 7 in area.
Part Three
Appoximately align a piece of printing normal paper under the opening in the screen. Raise the screen and apply scrap paper to any open holes of the press surface and around the edges as needed. Align the printing paper to the grid and turn on the vacuum. With the vac on, peel and place two registration tabs on press surface, near the bottom edge of the paper, but aligned to the grid. Align the third guide to the upper left edge of the paper in a similar manner. Turn off the vacuum and remove the paper.
Now practice placing the paper. With the paper in both hands, slide the paper left on the bottom guides as a horizontal rail. Slide the paper until it hits the third guide. Turn on the vacuum with the foot switch to hold the paper.
Finally, loosen the adjustment knobs (wing nuts) and center the screen on the paper. Precision is not needed. Once satisfied with the location, tighten the adjustment knobs and turn off the vacuum. Attach the weighted clamp to the side of the screen and check the balance.
Technical Specifications
- 5 x 7 in. (landscape) artwork area centered on an 9 x 12 in. sheet of paper.
- One color
Assessment
- The following rubric posted on D2L will determine assignment score: Exercise Grading
Techniques
Taping, registration, press adjustments
Supplies
Screen, tape, paper, press
Deadlines
Monday/Wednesday, January 23⁄25, 2017. Exercise given.
Monday/Wednesday, January 23⁄25, 2017. Observed by instructor as part of group demonstration.