Monday, March 11, 2013

Make A Silk Screen Print Frame

Make a silk screen frame using plywood.


Silkscreen printing, sometimes called silk screening or serigraphy, can be used to make printed T-shirts, posters, artwork, clothing and other apparel. You can make custom or personalized gifts for family members and friends using silkscreens. Before starting a silkscreen project, you need to first build an exposing frame using silkscreen-making supplies. You can purchase silkscreen materials at printing shops, hardware stores and some local arts and craft shops.


Instructions


Instructions


1. Cut the 2 by 3 lumber into two 11-inch long and two 8 ½-inch pieces. The two 11-inch pieces are the sides and the 8 ½-inch pieces are the inserts.


2. Place the two inserts, one at the top and the other one at the bottom, and screw them to the two sides (11 inches) with wood screws and the electric drill. Use the proper drill bit according to the head of the wood screws. You should have an incomplete frame that is 8 1/2 by 11 inches.


3. Cut a 3-inch thick foam rubber into a piece that is long enough to fit into the well or inside of the frame. Place the rubber foam inside the well of the frame, leaving 1/2 inch of space between the foam and frame.


4. Cut another piece of plywood into two 13-inch and 10 ½-inch pieces. The two 13-inch pieces are the sides and two 10 ½-inch pieces are the top and bottom.


5. Place the frame in the center of the 10 ½-inch by 13-inch plywood. Connect the frame and plywood together by attaching clamp hinges to one end of the frame and the other to the plywood using screws and the drill. After the two are connected, the frame should lift up from the base of the plywood. The foam should be underneath the base.


6. Use the drill and screws to attach the door latch to the plywood and the eye hook to the frame. They should be opposite to the clamp hinges. The hook keeps the frame closed while using it.


7. Place the clear ¼-inch plate glass over the frame and secure the four edges with duct tape to the frame. This also protects you and other handlers from cuts or injuries.