Making Custom T-ShirTs with a Laser and Screen Printing
Buy a shirt https://www.etsy.com/listing/1729420843/build-it-make-it-t-shirt-made-by-me
or make your own
Supplies
xTool Screen Printer: https://geni.us/zUgD2
xTool S1 Laser: https://geni.us/NuK0Hwz
Green Galaxy Ink: https://www.screenprinting.com
Warp Drive Additive: https://www.screenprinting.com
Squeegee: https://geni.us/mBG0ik
Ink Spatula: https://geni.us/uuq4N
Block Out Tape: https://geni.us/DNiLn1
Ever wanted unique, high-quality t-shirts without the store markup? Tired of designs that crack or fade after a single wash? With a laser screen printer, you can create your own custom apparel at home! This guide will walk you through the process, from selecting materials to printing your masterpiece.
Gather Your Supplies
High-Quality Shirts: Choose comfortable, well-made shirts that will hold up to wear and washing. Consider brands known for their durability, or ask fellow crafters for recommendations. I personally like Next Level Apparel and also Bella+Canvas.
Shirt Blanks (Optional): If you plan on making a large batch of shirts, buying blanks in bulk can save money. Look for online retailers specializing in screen printing supplies like Alpha Broder and Jiffy.
Screen Printing Ink: While your laser screen printer manufacturer might offer compatible ink, consider alternatives. Low-temperature cure additives can simplify the curing process, especially for beginners. I used Green Galaxy inks and Warp Drive as the additive and they turned out really good.
Screen Printer: The xTool screen printer is really simple to use and is a really easy way to get into screen printing. Traditional silk screens would be fine, but you would need to get setup for coating them.
Design for Printing Success
Conceptualize Your Design: Brainstorm and finalize your t-shirt design. It can be anything from a funny slogan to a detailed illustration.
Attention to Detail: Remember, the laser will etch your design onto the screen, which translates to the printed image. Fine lines and intricate details may not translate well. Aim for bold lines and at least a 0.5mm thickness for best results when you are just getting started in screen printing.
Frame Selection: Match your screen frame size to your design. Smaller frames are ideal for smaller designs, while larger frames accommodate bigger prints. For t-shirts it is probably best to stick with the larger frames and use the smaller ones on objects.
The Actual Printing
Securing Your Canvas: Instead of the sticky mats the xTool screen printer comes with, consider using water-based pallet adhesive to secure your shirts for printing. I never had an issue with the mat, but it is one less thing to bother with.
Printing Perfection: Be prepared to experiment and refine your technique. You might encounter challenges like ink bleeding or misalignment. The key is to troubleshoot and adjust your design or printing method.
Heat Treatment: Once printed, your shirts likely require curing the ink with heat. Consult your ink's recommendations for the appropriate temperature and duration, but low cure additives can make is easier to pull off.
Troubleshooting Tips
Registration is Key: Registration marks on your design can help you achieve perfect alignment during printing.
Design for Success: Modify your design to avoid overly fine details that the mesh screen might struggle to reproduce.
