How to use a PG-10 Gocco machine

I love make prints to show off my artwork to friends and family. Sometimes making silk screens can be costly and messy using the traditional methods. The Gocco machine is a Japanese invention that has been used a long time in Japan. I have just bought mine and I just can't get enough of it, so I spreading the word about it to all that want to listen!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• PG10 machine
• Riso bulbs
• Riso inks
• Riso screens
• Black and white copies of images
• Clip art

1. 
    
   Kits sold on ebay

   The PG5 and the B6 are almost identical except, of course, for their color. The PG5 has been designed with an easier grip on the lamp housing and a better framework for holding the screen so that it is held in place more reliably while printing. Also, the PG5 is slightly more compact than the B6 although they both use the B6 screens and lamps.
   
   The PG10 was the first upgrade that took into account a need for multiple screen registration. It has a built in registration plate that allows your designs and your screens to be accurately aligned for flashing and for printing. It also has a built in print counter and is larger, heavier and more stoutly constructed than the PG5 & B6 printers.

2. 
    
   Keep the image bold.

   The next thing that you need to do is, design image that is in black and white that is bold without a lot of gray qualities to it. I love to use vintage photos when I make my images just because they are easy to work with and fun to add to in a graphics program.

3. Once the image is selected and prepared, you need to flash image to make a screen. It is quite easy because in the PG10 everything is compact and all right in front of you. All you need to do is follow the manufacture's instructions and make the screen.

4. 
    
   Screened image

   Now that you have made the screen it is time to print your images. This is the real great part of the tool it is so compact that all you need to do is load the ink on the screen and then slide the screen back into the machine. Once you have the screen inked and loaded, you need to press the inked screen down onto the paper gently to make the impression.

5. Let all the images dry overnight. If you are wanting to print a second color to your original image follow the directions in your manual that comes with the machine and you can make another screen to print the second color onto the image.

Tips & Warnings

• Try using old photos for your images and take out the grays in Photoshop program.
• Store used screens in a zip lock baggy and store in your freezer.
• Use a number of newsprint sheets on your work surface to protect your work area.
• Don't get the ink on your clothes because it is difficult to remove without damage to the garment.
• Keep all inks away from flame and children because it is toxic.

[iamageniuster]

on 10/22/2008 Excellent tips. 5 stars! Thanks for sharing.