How to Use an Emulsion for Screen Printing

Emulsion liquid is used to transfer a design onto a silk screen for printing. The emulsion liquid essentially turns the silk screen into a negative by hardening in the areas that are not part of the design. The emulsion hardens when exposed to a light source such as a 250-watt bulb or the sun. Using emulsion liquid is a simple process if you have the proper instructions and the necessary tools available for easy application.

Things You'll Need

• Photo emulsion liquid and sensitizer
• Silk screen
• Light table or 250-watt light bulb with stand
• Acrylic the size of the screen
• Black cloth
• Squeegee
• Newspaper
• Thick cardboard
• Emulsion remover
• Dark room

Instructions

1. Prepare sensitizer and mix well.

2. Place your silk screen on the frame and secure it so it does not move.

3. Place a thick line of emulsion across the top of the screen.

4. Pull the emulsion liquid down the length of the screen using a squeegee. If there is an excess of emulsion liquid, scoop it up with your squeegee. Be sure the emulsion is evenly distributed.

5. Flip the screen over and repeat the process by placing a thick line of emulsion at the top of the screen. Pull the emulsion over the length of the screen using the squeegee.

6. Dry the silk screen by letting it sit in a dark room overnight. Do not expose the screen to bright light.

7. Place the screen bottom side up and lay the artwork on top of the screen. Be sure to place the image backwards, as this will not be the printing side. Place the acrylic on top of the artwork. Do this in a semi-dark room, lessening the exposure of the screen to light sources.

8. Lay the black fabric on the floor and place the screen with the artwork and acrylic on top of the fabric.

9. Set up the light source, placing the bulb approximately 12 to 14 inches away from the screen, making sure the light is centered. Expose the screen for 30 minutes.

10. Once exposure is complete you must rinse the emulsion liquid from the design area. Use a forceful spray of cold water. Concentrate on the areas that are part of your design. Be sure to rinse away all emulsion fluid for a clear crisp design.

11. Dry completely before printing.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid contact of emulsion with skin.