Testify and a Noob process

[crosshair]

Use normal clear packing tape, print side.
That blue low-tack masking tape is fuggin expensive.

I never do the emulsion-patch-and-reexpose thing. If I have a pinhole or registration target to mask out, I'll use a little piece of scotch tape.

[eyepeace]

Cool, thanks.
I used the clear packing tape for the outside edges.
I know it's weird, but I bought that screenprinters tape for the inside stuff, cuz I hate the way the squeegee feels going over the packing tape.
Plus I was worried the clear packing tape wouldn't hold up to a hundred squeegee pulls. But - duh - didn't even think of putting it on the print side at the time.

[miklay]

yeah, screen filler works good too with a paint brush. i use that for bigger areas i need to block.
nice work!

[Andymac]

some thin clear tape underneath for pinholes or register marks - but watch it, sometimes the ink bleeds in the direction of the pull.

that stuff on top - I tape in with clear 2" packing tape, but seal the edge before starting with yur fingernail, or the ink will start to creep underneath.

You have to watch thick lumpy buildups on the top surface, as these will wear a nick in your squeegee on a long run, hitting the same spot. I always blockout from the bottom so if there is a little nub, it doesn't nick the squeegee everytime you print, cause eventually that will make a mark and then a streak.

if you find you are getting residue from your tape, before you pull it off, flip the screen and soak the emulsion from the back under the tape area. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes, then pull your tape - it will come right off when the stencil is wet/moist.

Mike, what are you using for blockout? (Brand?) and are you going to watch Canucks/San Jose with merf and me in austin?

[eyepeace]

Thanks guys!

Andy, that's what I was getting worried about - nicking up my squeegee. That info helps - thanks.

Is there a screen filler for water based inks? I didn't think they made one.

[Andymac]

I use Saatichem W-1. (I think that's it) it's purple, a latex base. when dry it is waterresistant, but it cleans off easy in reclaim

I bought a gallon 5 years a go and am still working on it.

goes on easy with a brush or a flat credit card/squeegee chunk for coating out large areas smoothly

[eyepeace]

I use Saatichem W-1.

awesome - thanks.
Found the stuff on their website. Now to find somebody that sells this stuff.
Doesn't seem like many folks sell it.