Screen Printing
I want to include typography in my print, but I am worried it's going to be too small ?
We recommend not to use any typefaces smaller than 8pt, however if using very thin or serifed typefaces we advise going slightly larger. It is advised to print a practice sample before attempting your final prints as some typefaces will screen print better than others.
What sort of scale can I work at?
We have three different size screens allowing us to print from postage stamp to A0 in size.
Do I have to pay to use the facilities?
No, students of the University do not have to pay to use the print room facilities, the only materials that we ask for our students to provide is their own paper and any specialised inks they wish to use e.g. Metallic, Pearlised, Gloss etc.
What paper should I print on?
You can print on most types of paper providing they are not too heavily textured, however, we recommend using a paper with a gsm between 180-300 for finished prints.
With regards to what the University art shop sell we can recommend:
Sea White, A2, 230gsm cartridge
30p per sheet
Fabriano 5, 50cm x 70cm, 210 gsm
(smooth or not depending on the desired finish )
£1.50 per sheet
Somerset Satin, 56cm x 76cm, 250 gm
£2.25
Snowdon Cartridge, A1, 300 gsm
£1.25
How long will my prints take to dry?
Screen prints dry relatively quickly, when printing directly on to paper inks should take no longer than 10 minutes to dry. However, when printing over inks it can increase drying times to around 30 minutes.
ETCHING
How long does my plate have to be in the acid?
There are many variables when it comes to etching times so it is impossible for us to give you an exact time to etch your plate for. The biting time can depend on the temperature of the acid, the amount of plate exposed to the acid and the strength of the acid mix. Because of this, it is advised that you ask a technician for assistance when etching your plate.
What paper should I print on?
When printing etchings it is recommended to use a hand made papers with a high cotton count. These soak well and print a lot better than cellulose and wood based papers.
With regards to what the University art shop sell we can recommend:
Fabriano 5, 50cm x 70cm, 210 gsm
Fabriano 5, 50cm x 70cm, 210 gsm
( smooth or not depending on the desired finish )
£1.50 per sheet
(50% Cotton)
(50% Cotton)
Somerset Satin, 56cm x 76cm, 250 gm
£2.25
I have found some metal at home can I etch it?
This would totally depend on what metal it is. Most flat metals could be engraved into and prints could then be made from them, however, only copper, zinc & steel can be etched in our acid baths.
Please consult a technician before printing any plates acquired from outside the University as the pressure on our presses may need adjusting to avoid damage to the blankets and to achieve the best possible print.
How long will my prints take to dry?
It is recommended to leave prints to dry for at least two-three days between the boards, this will ensure that your prints are dry and flat. Please take this into consideration when creating work for a hand in.
