Today, I took a break from dealing with the estate to do another chore holding up the next print. Screen prep! My father left behind many frames for screen printing. Most are empty, some have one system for holding screens in place, others have the revised method. Four screens still have images of his work , which will remain so I can utilize them for family projects. Those 4 screens all have hinge hardware set in place (hardware I can’t get additional of due to their age). I love the hinge system and have used it for years but the new screens lack hinges. Fortunately, there is a way around this! Amongst the piles in the studio, a pair of Speedball screen clamps have resided for many years, untouched! They are finally getting a chance to be USED! Below are some images of the new approach. I’ll let you know how it works.
Those extra scraps of mat board can come in handy!
I had to change screen direction in order to fit my squeegee. Another plus for using the clamps!
Below: How I register my colors. Use tape to create guides!
Close-up of tape.
Why have I switched screens? Mainly due to the fact the beautiful yellow 200 thread count screens are not washing out well anymore. There are horrible photo emulsion remnants from school projects and I’m experiencing problems removing regular screen filler. This is probably due to the fact my sprayer is wimpy and not providing enough “oomph” to get the job done.
You might be wondering why my dad created so many screen frames? I probably have about 20+ in various stages. He and I were going into production of coastal images to sell. The plan was to have him join the Yachats Art Guild so we would have an “in” when they did their sales. There was also the option of signing up for a booth during the Sunday Farmers market (full season commitment). We were always hatching collaborative art ideas. Too bad it didn’t take off on my side. I should have realized that was something really important for him. Death certainly ends the collaboration. *sigh*
Another dog print will start soon! 🙂
Sticks, Stones, and Paper Stew Blog 
I love tecchie printmaking talk 🙂
Oh good! I’m glad somebody appreciates it!
Currently taking a break from applying the first layer of screen filler. Nigel keeps wanting to snuggle in my lap. Not a good combination!
🙂
Oh yes, I could talk printmaking til the cows come home.