In screen printing, we all face the problem of color coverage. This is usually an issue with problematic colors of shirts, such as RED or polo shirts, which do not have a smooth surface. So, how do we solve this issue when printing white color?
THOUGHTS …
The screen you will be printing on should be properly tensioned and the mesh chosen should be appropriate for the design. For large areas or wider surfaces, use a coarse mesh, and for halftones or fine lines, use a fine mesh. The hardness of the squeegee is also important, as it affects the extrusion of the ink through the screen. Our printers use a medium variant and employ a medium-hard rubber (75 SH). A very important thing for optimal ink extrusion is also the pressure of the squeegee, which should be even across the entire design and should not vary.
A single stroke of the squeegee will never yield good results because the first application of the ink only fills the holes in the fabric and creates a smooth base. The actual result is visible after the second stroke. The rule always applies – when printing on colored shirts, the first print is for the shirt, the second and subsequent prints are for the design.
PLASTISOLNOT COLORS
With plastisols, we can achieve even better whiteness by adding an additive R10 to the white ink. Its function is to puff up the ink slightly, thereby improving coverage.A little will suffice, because if we overdo adding the R10 additive, washing fastness and rub resistance will decrease. Correct usage does not reduce resistance.
Warning!
Always test color fastness before printing series.