Section outline

  • In analogue textile printing technology, the general rule is that a multicolor pattern is printed one color at a time. It is necessary to carry out the preparatory phase in which the design of the pattern is defined, then the smallest repeating unit of the design is defined, and the separation of colors meaning separation of the effects is carried out. It is necessary to completely break down the pattern into individual colors, ie effects, and create a separate stencil for each effect.

    This preparatory phase is time consuming and requires high precision.

    The implementation of CAD systems in the preparatory phase of design and separation of effects is one of the most important aspects of IC technology in textile printing. The introduction of computers significantly simplifies and shortens the preparation phase. Color separation is carried out faster and with much greater precision, which ensures better quality of the further printing process and the final result.

    • PATTERN Preparation File

      Precise sample preparation is key to quality reproduction with conventional printing technology. The lesson explains in detail the methodology of sample preparation, from design, definition of the smallest unit of design (repeat unit) to color separation, which is carried out in three different ways, depending on the complexity of the pattern.


      https://learn.corel.com/graphics-tutorials/coreldraw-tutorials/coreldraw-for-screen-printing/

      It is recommended to visit this site where tutorials for applying features of Corel Draw in pattern preparation for screen printing, can be found.


      The video shows a simple example of color separation of a pattern by the method of classical (individual) color separation or effects. In the language of printing, this method is also called "SPOT color separation". This term actually means that the sample is divided into defined colors, and these already defined colors will be used in later printing. The number of these colors is defined by the pattern and can be as much as the configuration of the printing machine allows.

      Contrary to the "SPOT color separation" methodology, the so-called "PROCESS color separation", which refers to the raster separation of colors, ie the breakdown of the sample into parts of the four primary PROCESS colors - CMYK, by mixing which any color palette is achieved. Only four colors are always used in this method, which means that 4 screens, meaning 4 stencils are always prepared for any sample.


      • SPOT Colour Separation



      • PROCESS Colour Separation



      In addition to PROCES Colour Separation, this video is demonstrating the principle of process colour mixing (CMYK) and the and the gradual construction of the image, ie its three-dimensionality and plasticity, ie photo-like structure.


    • STENCIL Preparation - Transfer the PATTERN to the SCREEN File

      The next stage in the process is the transfer of the separated effects to the appropriate screens. Depending on the nature of the design itself and the type of printing paste to be used, it is necessary to choose the appropriate fineness of the screen and attend to the transfer of effects.

      In this lesson, the principle of making a stencil will be explained in the context of manual screen printing, but also from the aspect of industrial production. The methodology of developing flat and rotary screens (stencils), by the process of light exposure and laser engraving will be explained.

      Also the newest "Computer to Screen" technology will be explained. 


      • Watch on this video:  The process of pattern development on rotary screen (Laser engraving vs. laser exposure system)



      • Laser flatbed engraving machine (flat screen engraving process)


      • Rotary screen coating and pattern engraving


      • Rotary screen printing

    • Watch on these videos the series of "How to Screen Print" tutorials: Assignment

      For the task, carefully watch a series of videos that provide an overview of the basic stages of textile screen printing, from preparation of the design, making a screen and stencil, to choosing a printing method, preparation of printing paste and the printing itself. The videos show the stock printing methodology, which involves printing the whole design composition on one part of a already sewn piece of clothing (for example a T-shirt) or the separate sewing pattern of a future garment.

      How to Screen Print - An Overview 


      Art Preparation


      Film Output


      Screens and Darkroom


      Screen Preparation


      Screen Exposure


      Screen Printing Press Setup


      Press Registration


      Screen Printing Ink


      Screen Printing Techniques


      Curing Your Prints


      Quality Control/Folding & Boxing


      Cleaning Up


      Business Tools and Outro





    • Short QUIZ on Pattern and Stencil preparation