Screen-printing VS. Iron Transfers

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Screen-printing VS. Iron Transfers In our contemporary society there are many forms of artwork available. One form of artwork available is making different designs for apparel in the clothing industry (Everson 30). However, there are several creative processes that are unknown to a majority of the population. Two of the more popular processes are Silk screening (or screen-printing), and Iron-on transfers (or heat Transfers). There has been much debate in the art world and clothing industry over which process is more efficient, screen-printing or heat transfers. There are a number of different ways to compare these two methods, so we will review the following: ease of use, cost, durability, efficiency, and quality. After analyzing both processes, this documented essay should put to rest any arguments of iron transfers being better than silk screening, for silk screening is undoubtedly the better process. Before we make our comparison an explanation of each printing process is completely necessary, beginning with screen-printing. Screen-printing is a lengthy process, which requires both precision and a lot of patience. There are two chemicals involved in this particular project, degreaser and stencil remover, these chemicals are used to clean and prepare the screens for the emulsion and then remove it when finished. The degreaser is used to clean and prepare the screen, and get it ready to accept the emulsion onto the screen. This is the first step of the process, and once the emulsion is placed onto the screen, the screen and emulsion must be placed in complete darkness to avoid any exposure. It must stay there for 24 hours to completely dry. I cannot stress enough how important this step is for as stated in the Thames and Hudson Manual of screen-printing: “it is essential to prepare the screen properly; it must be thoroughly degreased or it will reject

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