Computer to Positive - what's the best way?

maynard · #1 (**permalink**) 12-17-2002, 12:55 PM

Allright, so I've pretty much decided to get back into screening again. The only thing I having trouble figuring out is how to get a positive (for screen exposure) out of my computer... And please don't tell me I need a verticle camera. The only ways I've gotten a positive was with a stat camera or hand inking Asetate (that was a long time ago...). Isn't there a better way?

Thanks for any advice, comments, etc.... Coco™ blesses you.

Punchgut · #2 (**permalink**) 12-17-2002, 01:11 PM

we just got one of these little units.
http://www.epson.com/cgi-bin/Store/W...ormat+Printers

cool part is you can print full color and film with a swap of paper. tricky part is you have to buy a rip, a hard drtive and monitor. add it to the price.

Pedini · #3 (**permalink**) 12-17-2002, 01:12 PM

Dude- I bring digital files to a blueline shop and they can output them onto vellum. Of course, vellum has its good and bad. You can easily add to the image with a sharpie, 'cause vellum is like paper, but like paper the stuff can warp in humidity and you have to adjust your exposure times just right because it is translucent rether than clear like acetate. But its cheap, and you can even bring in a 8.5 x 11 printout from home and they can enlarge it to the size you need. (this is not advised if you have several layers - make 'em all to size digitally and have them print 100% onto the vellum)

maynard · #4 (**permalink**) 12-17-2002, 01:25 PM

Y'know, I was looking into a wide-format printer (theres an HP that looks pretty solid for less than 1k). But after the Scrojo Egofest, where I got to see some beautiful printed pieces.. it brought me back to the love of screens... What I want to figure out is which solution will be: Less Expensive start up and maintenance costs, which looks better, which has more flexibility.

I'll be starting a business next year (details coming soon) and can amortize the equipment, but I have to make sure that everything will work smoothly. Problems cost money.

The computer to positive portion is the only thing I just can't figure out yet... Vellum is my favorite to paint on. Wonder how it would look screened on...

Jermaine · #5 (**permalink**) 12-17-2002, 01:33 PM

biped is right.

Find a printshop with an image setter.
Make your seps and email them over to the shop. They'll crank em out in minutes.
Most image-setters have a restricted width of about 18 in. but have an unrestricted length.
For a 36x24 in. poster (final PAPER size), an image measuring 18 x 30 will give you a nice 3 in. border all the way around.
If youre running 2-up or 3-up...or even just a smaller print...measure accordingly.

I love image-setters. You can even get your seps made on a frosted vellum, which is cheaper than a clear vellum. Most printers can make that work when they burn screens.

Punchgut · #6 (**permalink**) 12-17-2002, 01:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by maynard

Y'know, I was looking into a wide-format printer (theres an HP that looks pretty solid for less than 1k). But after the Scrojo Egofest, where I got to see some beautiful printed pieces..

you can still send film out on it.....thats all we have used it for....but if necessary we could run full color prints out.......its all about options ...mr. kitty litter