Creating Custom Screen Prints with Speedball Drawing Fluid

Preparing the Screen

Before you start screen printing with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit, it is important to properly prepare your screen to ensure clean and crisp prints. Follow these steps to get your screen ready:

Step 1: Clean the Screen

• Start by thoroughly cleaning your screen to remove any dirt, dust, or residue.
• Use a mild detergent and warm water to gently scrub both sides of the screen.
• Rinse the screen with clean water and allow it to dry completely before proceeding.

Step 2: Apply Blockout Tape

• If you want to prevent the ink from seeping through certain areas of the screen, apply blockout tape to those areas.
• Ensure that the tape is securely adhered and covers the desired areas, completely blocking any gaps or openings.

Step 3: Apply Speedball Drawing Fluid

• Using a brush or a squeeze bottle, apply a layer of Speedball Drawing Fluid to one side of the screen.
• Make sure to apply a smooth and even coat.
• Allow the Drawing Fluid to dry completely. This usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the climate and humidity.
• Once dry, apply a second coat of Drawing Fluid for added durability.

Step 4: Apply Screen Filler

• Using a squeegee, apply a layer of Speedball Screen Filler to the opposite side of the screen.
• Ensure that the Screen Filler covers the entire screen, including the areas with the Drawing Fluid.
• Apply the Screen Filler in one smooth motion, using firm pressure to ensure complete coverage.

Step 5: Allow the Screen Filler to Dry

• Let the Screen Filler dry completely. This typically takes around 2 to 3 hours.
• Make sure the screen is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

By following these steps, you will have a well-prepared screen ready for screen printing with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit. Remember to always refer to the instructions provided by the manufacturer for best results.

Mixing the Drawing Fluid

Properly mixing the Speedball Drawing Fluid is crucial in achieving optimal screen printing results. Follow these detailed instructions to create custom screen prints that are sure to impress:

• First, gather all the necessary materials: Speedball Drawing Fluid, a mixing container, a stirring stick, and a measuring tool.
• Start by measuring out the desired amount of Speedball Drawing Fluid. The recommended ratio is 1 part Speedball Drawing Fluid to 1 part water, but you can adjust the consistency as needed for your specific project.
• Next, carefully pour the measured Speedball Drawing Fluid into the mixing container.
• Add an equal amount of water to the container, using the measuring tool. Make sure to pour the water slowly, allowing it to mix with the drawing fluid evenly.
• Using the stirring stick, thoroughly mix the Speedball Drawing Fluid and water until they are well combined. The mixture should have a smooth and creamy consistency.
• If the mixture appears too thick, you can gradually add more water and continue stirring until the desired consistency is achieved.
• On the other hand, if the mixture seems too thin, you can add a small amount of Speedball Drawing Fluid and mix it in thoroughly until the desired thickness is reached.
• Once the drawing fluid is mixed to your desired consistency, cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap to prevent evaporation and contamination.

Congratulations! You have successfully mixed the Speedball Drawing Fluid for your custom screen printing project. Now, you can move on to applying the mixture onto your screen to create your own unique designs.

• Remember to clean your mixing container and stirring stick immediately after use to prevent the drawing fluid from drying and becoming difficult to remove.
• Experiment with different ratios of drawing fluid to water to achieve various effects and textures in your screen prints. The flexibility of the Speedball Drawing Fluid allows you to customize your prints to your own artistic style.

Applying the Drawing Fluid

Once you have prepared your screen with the Speedball Screen Filler, it's time to apply the Speedball Drawing Fluid to create custom designs and patterns. Follow these steps to achieve the best results:

• Ensure that your screen is clean and dry before starting the application process.
• Shake the Speedball Drawing Fluid bottle well to ensure the consistency is smooth and even.
• Using a soft, synthetic brush, apply a thin, even coat of the Drawing Fluid onto the desired areas of the screen where you want your design to appear.
• Be sure to apply the Drawing Fluid in a smooth and steady manner, taking care not to create any brush strokes or thick areas.
• Once you have finished applying the Drawing Fluid, allow it to dry completely. This may take anywhere from 15 minutes to a few hours, depending on the climate and thickness of the applied coats.
• You can use a fan or a hairdryer on low heat to speed up the drying process, if needed.
• After the Drawing Fluid is completely dry, you can proceed with the next step of your screen printing project, such as applying the Screen Filler or using other Speedball products for further customization.

Remember to clean your brush thoroughly after each use to prevent the Drawing Fluid from hardening and clogging the bristles. You can use warm water and soap or a specialized brush cleaner to ensure that your brush remains in good condition for future applications.

• Always test the Drawing Fluid on a scrap piece of fabric or paper before applying it to your final design to ensure that you are comfortable with the consistency and outcome of your brush strokes.
• Consider using different brush sizes or experimenting with various techniques, such as splattering or stenciling, to add more depth and texture to your screen prints.

Drying the Drawing Fluid

Drying the drawing fluid is an essential step before continuing with the screen printing process using the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit. Properly drying the applied drawing fluid ensures that the design remains intact and ready for the next steps. Here are the best methods to achieve this:

• Allow air drying: After applying the drawing fluid, simply leave the screen in a well-ventilated area and let it air dry naturally. This method is the most common and convenient way to dry the drawing fluid. Depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment, the drying time may vary. It is recommended to give it at least twenty-four hours to completely dry before moving on to the next step.
• Use a fan or hairdryer: If you're short on time or working in a humid environment, you can speed up the drying process by using a fan or a hairdryer. Place a fan near the screen or set it on a low setting to gently blow air over the drawing fluid. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer on the lowest heat and speed settings while maintaining a safe distance from the screen. This method can significantly reduce the drying time, allowing you to proceed with screen printing sooner.
• Apply heat: Another effective method is to use heat to dry the drawing fluid. You can use a heat gun or a heat press machine to carefully apply heat to the screen. Keep in mind that excessive heat may cause the drawing fluid to bubble or peel off, so it's crucial to use low to medium settings and constantly monitor the process. This method should be used cautiously to avoid damaging the screen or the design.

These methods will help you ensure that the drawing fluid is thoroughly dried and ready for the next step in the screen printing process. Remember to choose the method that suits your time constraints, environment, and personal preference to achieve the best results with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit.

Applying the Screen Filler

Once you have used the Speedball Drawing Fluid to create your design on the screen, it is time to apply the Screen Filler. This step is crucial in blocking out the areas you don't want the ink to pass through, essentially creating stencils for printing. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply the Speedball Screen Filler:

• Clean the screen: Before applying the Screen Filler, make sure your screen is thoroughly cleaned and free of any residual Drawing Fluid. This will ensure that the Screen Filler adheres properly to the screen.

• Prep the Screen Filler: Take the Speedball Screen Filler and stir it well to achieve a smooth consistency. You can use a palette knife or a popsicle stick for this. Make sure there are no lumps or clumps in the Screen Filler.

• Apply the Screen Filler: Using a wide, soft brush, evenly spread a layer of Screen Filler on one side of the screen. Start from the top and work your way down, applying gentle pressure to ensure the Screen Filler penetrates the mesh of the screen. You want to create a solid, thick layer of Screen Filler across the areas you want to block out.

• Remove excess Screen Filler: Once you have applied the Screen Filler, use the flat edge of the brush or a squeegee to remove any excess. Angle the tool at a 45-degree angle and swipe it across the screen, removing the excess Screen Filler while leaving behind a smooth and even layer.

• Dry the Screen: Allow the Screen Filler to dry completely. This may take anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on the temperature and humidity. Make sure the Screen Filler is fully dry before proceeding to the next step.

By following these steps, you will successfully apply the Speedball Screen Filler to block out areas on your screen, creating stencils for your custom screen prints. Remember to clean your screen thoroughly after each use, and store your Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit in a cool and dry place to ensure its longevity.

• Store the Screen Filler properly: Close the container of Screen Filler tightly after each use to prevent it from drying out. It is also a good idea to store the container upside down to create an airtight seal.

Drying the Screen Filler

After applying the Speedball Drawing Fluid, it is crucial to properly dry the screen filler before moving on to the next step of applying ink. Drying the screen filler thoroughly ensures a clean and consistent print, without any smudging or bleeding.

Follow these instructions to properly dry the screen filler:

• Allow the screen to air dry for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This will allow the screen filler to dry naturally and settle into the screen.
• For faster drying, use a fan or a hairdryer on a cool setting. Make sure to hold the hairdryer or fan at a safe distance to prevent any damage or dislodging of the screen filler. The cool air will gently dry the screen filler without causing any negative effects.
• Alternatively, you can use a drying rack specifically designed for screen printing. Place the screen on the rack and let it dry naturally. The rack allows for proper air circulation around the screen, aiding in faster drying.

By properly drying the screen filler, you ensure that it sets firmly onto the screen, creating a smooth and even surface for printing. Once the screen filler is dry, you can move on to the next step of applying ink and creating your custom screen prints with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit.

Screen Printing with the Kit

The Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit provides a convenient and effective way to create custom screen prints. Whether you're a seasoned screen printer or just starting out, this kit has everything you need to transfer images onto various surfaces.

The process of screen printing with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit involves applying ink and transferring images onto desired surfaces. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

• Prepare Your Screen: Begin by cleaning and degreasing your screen to ensure optimal print results. Use a screen degreaser or a mild soap and water solution. Rinse the screen thoroughly and let it dry completely before proceeding.
• Apply Drawing Fluid: With a paintbrush or a squeeze bottle, apply a thin and even coat of the Speedball Drawing Fluid on the printing side of the screen. Make sure to cover the areas where you want your design to be printed. Allow the drawing fluid to dry completely.
• Coat with Screen Filler: Once the drawing fluid is dry, apply a generous coat of the Speedball Screen Filler on the printing side of the screen. Use the provided squeegee to spread the filler in a smooth and even motion. Make sure to cover all the exposed areas of the screen. Allow the screen filler to dry completely.
• Remove Drawing Fluid: After the screen filler has dried, it's time to remove the drawing fluid. Place the screen under running water and gently scrub the drawing fluid using a brush or sponge. The areas where the drawing fluid was applied will wash away, leaving behind your design as open areas on the screen.
• Ink the Screen: Once the screen is clean and dry, it's ready for printing. Place the desired material or substrate underneath the screen, ensuring it's secured in place. Apply a small amount of ink at the top of the screen and use a squeegee to evenly distribute the ink across the design. Lift the screen gently and admire your custom screen print!

The Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit is a versatile and user-friendly option for creating custom screen prints. Whether you're printing on paper, fabric, or any other flat surface, this kit provides all the necessary tools and materials to bring your designs to life. Its high-quality formula ensures crisp and vibrant prints every time. So, get creative and start exploring the endless possibilities of screen printing with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit!

Cleaning and Reusing the Screen

Properly cleaning your screen after each use is crucial in order to maintain its quality and ensure its longevity. By following these steps, you can effectively clean your screen and prepare it for multiple uses:

• Once you have finished your print job, remove any excess ink from the screen using a cardboard squeegee or scraper. Be gentle to avoid damaging the screen.
• Next, rinse the screen with warm water to remove any remaining ink. Hold the screen at an angle to allow the water to flow smoothly over the surface. Avoid using high pressure, as it may cause damage to the screen.
• Apply a screen cleaner or mild dish soap to a soft bristle brush or sponge and gently scrub both sides of the screen. This will help remove any stubborn ink stains or debris. Rinse the screen thoroughly with warm water afterwards to ensure all residues are removed.
• Inspect the screen for any remaining ink or stains. If necessary, repeat the previous steps until the screen is completely clean.
• Let the screen air dry in a clean and dust-free environment. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or excessive heat, as this can cause the screen to warp or lose its tension.
• Once the screen is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place. It is important to keep the screen away from any moisture or chemicals that could potentially damage it.

Cleaning and reusing your Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit screen is a cost-effective and environmentally-friendly method to extend the lifespan of your screen. By following these cleaning instructions, you can ensure that your screen remains in optimal condition, allowing for multiple uses and high-quality prints.

Troubleshooting Tips

Screen printing with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit can be a rewarding and creative process. However, like any other art form, you may encounter some challenges along the way. Here are some troubleshooting tips and solutions for common issues that you may face during the screen printing process:

• If the drawing fluid is not flowing smoothly or evenly onto the screen, it could be due to inconsistent pressure or thickness of the drawing fluid. To resolve this issue, you can try the following:
• Make sure you have applied an even layer of drawing fluid onto the screen. Using a squeegee, apply the drawing fluid in one continuous stroke, making sure to cover the entire design area.
• Check the consistency of the drawing fluid. If it is too thick, you can thin it down by adding a small amount of water and mixing it well. If it is too thin, you can add some additional drawing fluid to achieve the desired consistency.
• Ensure that the screen is properly tensioned. A loose screen can cause the drawing fluid to flow unevenly. If needed, tighten the screen to maintain even tension across the entire surface.
• If the screen filler is not blocking the areas where you applied the drawing fluid, causing the ink to bleed through, you can try the following troubleshooting tips:
• Ensure that the screen filler is applied evenly and thoroughly over the areas where you applied the drawing fluid. Use a squeegee to apply a consistent layer of screen filler, making sure to cover the entire design area.
• Check the consistency of the screen filler. If it is too thin, it may not provide adequate coverage. You can thicken it by adding a small amount of filler to achieve a thicker consistency.
• Allow sufficient drying time for both the drawing fluid and screen filler. If they are not completely dry, they may mix and cause the ink to bleed through during printing.

Advanced Techniques and Ideas

When it comes to using the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit, there are various advanced techniques, tips, and creative ideas that users can explore and experiment with. These techniques can help you take your custom screen prints to the next level and create unique and engaging designs. Here are some advanced techniques and ideas to inspire you:

• Masking: Consider using masking techniques to create intricate and detailed designs. You can use stencil materials or even adhesive vinyl to mask off certain areas of the screen. This allows you to create multiple layers and textures in your prints.
• Experimental backgrounds: Instead of using a regular background color, why not try experimenting with different textures and patterns? Use a sponge, brush, or a textured material to create interesting backgrounds that add depth and visual interest to your designs.
• Mixing colors: Don't limit yourself to using a single color. Mixing different colors of drawing fluid can create beautiful gradients and blended effects. You can experiment with various color combinations to achieve unique and vibrant prints.
• Blend drawing fluid with other mediums: Consider mixing the drawing fluid with other mediums such as acrylic paints or fabric dyes. This can create interesting effects and additional textures on your prints.
• Layering techniques: Play with layering techniques to create depth and dimension in your designs. Start with a base layer of drawing fluid and screen filler, then add additional layers with different colors or patterns to create complex and visually striking prints.
• Experiment with discharge techniques: If you want to achieve a faded or distressed look, consider using discharge techniques. You can apply discharge paste to remove color from specific areas, creating a unique and vintage-inspired design.

These advanced techniques and ideas provide a starting point for you to push the boundaries of what you can create with the Speedball Drawing Fluid & Screen Filler Kit. Remember to experiment, have fun, and let your creativity flow!