Separate the embroidery hoops to attach the mesh screen.
Silk screening is the process of applying ink to fabric by pushing it through a mesh screen; it originated in ancient China and was passed along to Western Europe in the 1700s. The mesh screen is first painted with emulsion to block the ink from certain areas of the design. With the silk screen laid on top of the fabric, ink is spread on the screen and pushed through via a squeegee, applying the ink to the shirt. When dry, the shirt is ready to be worn. The silk screen is one of the most important tools of creating your own clothing designs.
Instructions
1. Gather supplies. You can buy the embroidery hoops at your local craft store. They may even have silk-screen mesh, though you may need to order it online. You only need enough mesh to cover the hoop.
2. Separate the inner hoop from the outer embroidery hoop, and stretch the mesh screen over the inner hoop.
3. With the mesh securely in place, replace the outer hoop and screw it closed tightly, making sure the screen remains taut.
4. Using the scissors, trim any extra mesh off the silk screen.
5. Using your favorite silk-screening techniques, start designing your own T-shirts.
