Ever feel like you've been scrolling through screen printing supplies for hours and still have no idea what to buy? We get it. Between the squeegees, the inks, the emulsions — it's enough to make your head spin.
But don't worry, Easiway's here to help! Whether you're a screen printing hobbyist or a full-blown shop owner, this guide will break down the essentials and get you on the fast track to screen printing success.
PROCESS 1: WASHOUT BOOTHS — YOUR MANUAL SOLUTION
Alright, let's dive into the world of washout booths — the foundation of manual screen reclaiming! These trusty setups keep your screens squeaky clean, which translates to crisp, high-quality prints, every single time. Here's what you'll need to get started:
ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT:
- Pressure Washer: This is a must. A pressure washer will help you blast away ink and emulsion residue, keeping your screens spotless.
- Scrub Pads: Keep a few scrub pads handy in your booth. Pro tip: Store them in a bucket of water to keep them clean and ready for use!
- Spray Bottles: Fill these with your cleaning solutions for easy application.
- Aprons and Gloves: Safety first! Protect yourself from chemicals and splashes with durable aprons and gloves.
- Face Shields: Prevent any splashback from reaching your face while you work.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Remember, reclaiming chemicals can be harsh. Make sure your reclaim area has proper ventilation to avoid inhaling any harmful fumes. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so suit up with those gloves and aprons — your future self will thank you!
PROCESS 2: DIP TANKS — STREAMLINE YOUR CLEANING
Looking to automate and simplify your screen cleaning process? Dip tanks are your best bet. We invented dip tanks, so trust us when we say Easiway does them best. Here’s what you need to know:
ESSENTIAL SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT:
- EasiStrip™ Supra Ink Cleaner and Emulsion Remover: This one-step wonder is a game-changer. It tackles both ink and emulsion removal in your dip tank, saving you serious time and money.
- Dip Tank: This vessel holds your cleaning solution and suspends your screens for a thorough, automated clean.
- Cleaning Wipes: Don't underestimate the power of these versatile wipes. Perfect for quick cleanups and keeping your workspace tidy.
- Scrub Pads and Buckets: For any stubborn areas that need a little extra muscle, keep these on hand.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
Just like with washout booths, proper ventilation is key to avoid inhaling fumes. Safety gear is your best friend, so always wear gloves and aprons when handling chemicals.
MANUAL VS DIP TANK METHOD: WHEN TO MAKE THE SWITCH
Washout booths are great, but is it time to start incorporating some automation? Here's how to decide which method fits your shop's needs:
- Labor: If staffing is tight and you need to streamline processes, automation is your time-saving hero. Dip tanks can significantly reduce manual scrubbing, freeing up your team to focus on other tasks.
- Volume: Printing tons of shirts? Systems like dip tanks are perfect for high-volume shops. They keep the cleaning process moving and efficient, no matter how many screens you're turning around.
- Budget: This is a classic question — upfront investment vs. long-term savings. While dip tanks have a higher initial cost, they save you money down the line with reduced labor and cleaning solution use. Washout booths might be a budget-friendly starter option, but can become more expensive over time with increased labor costs.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR NEW CUSTOMERS
New to the Easiway family? Welcome aboard! Here's our starter tips for screen printing success:
- Gear Up with Quality Essentials: Don't skimp on the basics! Invest in a powerful pressure washer, scrub pads for those stubborn spots, spray bottles for easy solution application, and safety gear like aprons, gloves, and face shields to protect yourself.
- Know Your Goals: Before diving in, take a moment to define your immediate and long-term goals. Are you a hobbyist or looking to scale up your printing business? Understanding your vision helps you choose the right equipment for the journey ahead.
- Space It Out: Think about your workspace layout. Will a new washout booth or dip tank fit comfortably? Ensuring proper water access and ventilation is also key for a smooth workflow.
- Embrace Automation: If labor costs are a concern, consider automating your reclaiming process. Dip tanks can significantly reduce the amount of manual work needed, freeing up your team and boosting your shop's efficiency.
EASIWAY: YOUR PARTNER IN SCREEN PRINTING SUCCESS
There you have it, screen printers! This guide should have you feeling confident about choosing the perfect equipment and supplies for your needs. Remember, creating killer prints is all about having the right tools, keeping safety first, and investing in a setup that can grow with your business.
And that's where Easiway comes in! We're here to be your partner throughout your screen printing journey. From sustainably-focused chemicals to top-of-the-line dip tanks, we have everything you need to achieve flawless results. So grab your gear, fire up your creativity, and get ready to print something amazing.