How to line up your platens on your screen printing press

[@bruce7171]

Good content. Very helpful. Consistent repetition is key. I would have to believe the uniformity would be a time saver when it comes to registration.

[@startupscreenprinting]

Thanks! Yes a big time saver for sure.

[@heatherjennings145]

This was GREAT! All of the KZbin creators for screen printing here on KZbin do a great job of explaining but I've never been able to have someone talk about this platen placement. THANK-YOU! I know it's a simple thing, but where I am lacking is the system of setting the platen and getting my guide for my films to help with keeping my registration. And great idea about the empty screen too--I've got a couple of popped ones around that I'm going to rip one down and use it in this way. I think it would help to set up my own guide for my films. Bravo!! Seriously, thank you!!

[@startupscreenprinting]

So glad this was helpful for you, Heather! Thank you for asking the question, I really want to be able to create content that helps with the problems people are truly facing so getting requests and feedback is so helpful so I'm not just guessing. :)

[@leviteapparel]

Great perspective on screen printer. Thank you for added information.

[@startupscreenprinting]

Thanks!

[@carmelor548]

Always great info thank you Jesse. Would you be able to make a podcast or video about pricing for us that are just starting? That’s would be very helpful.

[@startupscreenprinting]

Thanks Carmelo! Yes that's in the works for the podcast. It will be a series of episodes all on pricing strategies. 👍🏻

[@grindstoneprintco8020]

I got a cheaper lazer online which I was going to convert and put on top of my press. However I found it way more useful on a tripod beside me. When ever I switch my platens or thinking one of them is off center that lazer will tell me real quick. If you are ever printing above a pocket it helps alot to have them all at the exact same location. Another tip worth adding if you have oversized platens (16x19) and regular 20x24 screens make sure the head you put the screen on has the micros raised all the way up towards the platen. There is only about a inch of play and you will need that for the micros so account for it. I would recommend zeroing out the micros to all heads after the pallets are lined up.

[@startupscreenprinting]

All great tips!! Thanks!

[@chilloutsweet2601]

Great video man very hq

[@startupscreenprinting]

Thank you!

[@Ramellosugahill]

Have you tried discharge inks?

[@startupscreenprinting]

Yes I have, I love discharge! Such a cool end result, especially on triblend tshirts.

[@Ramellosugahill]

@@startupscreenprinting i like your channel thanks for being helpful. I look forward to seeing your content

[@startupscreenprinting]

Thanks so much!

[@adrianurizar]

Hi! One question. When you do what you show in the video, where in the frame do you put the piece that acts as "out of contact"?

[@startupscreenprinting]

I’m sorry I’m not totally certain what you mean but I’m gonna try to answer :) are you referring to off-contact and where to put that on the frame? Some people tape a quarter to the top of their frame and then make sure the frame lands on the top of the platen. In my example, none of the frame hits the platen so that won’t work for me.

[@adrianurizar]

@@startupscreenprinting Exactly!😉 I'm glad you understood my question. (Sorry for my English.) But then, if you don't use "off-contact", how do you do it when you lower the frame, so that the ink that is on the mesh doesn't touch the garment before printing?

[@startupscreenprinting]

@adrianurizar I use a piece of cardboard but I’ve also got a feel for how much I need so I don’t always need to use something to measure. Plus with water based printing, off contact isn’t that important