Howdy all,

I just got a screenprinting set and I'm wondering if anyone has experience with screenprinting on silks. Specifically what kind of paints to use and care and cleaning of silks after they've been printed. I'm working on a western-themed act and I'd like to print a bandana pattern on some of my existing silks.

Thanks!

Yes, you can silk screen print silks. Use the ink for fabrics. It is flexible.

You will find that it will greatly increase the bulk of the silk and reduce its flexibility.

I would clean them in Woolite.

Good Luck!

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

Thanks! I hope that with a sparse pattern it won't be too bulky. I'll post after I've tried some tests in case anyone else is interrested.

Thanks again!

You know that Sharpie pens work great on real silk? It's what my odd silks are.

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander

Does Sharpie bleed on silks or can you get a good crisp edged line with it? Also, how does it wash? Any bleeding problems there?

Thanks!

CC,

Sharpies should dry (about an hour) before removing the silk from the embroidery ring. The edges are as sharp as printed edges on printed 5 momme silk. (Remember the fibre is the same either way!)

I would actually advise waiting a week before using the silk and wash it first in Woolite. Red Sharpies in particular give off a dust that the sooner it's gone the better. I also would leave it flat (not folded) until washed.

Now for the truth! Since 1969, I have been in the import business. I am the magicians' silk importer. Therefore, I will trash or give away a silk to a volunteer when others would have other considerations. (Actually it is a very productive investment when well-placed.)

My wife Lucy is a physician but she is also a very accomplished artist. Lucy has been known to make art silks with Sharpie pens for me while she was riding in the car between shows. (No, she does not make them commercially!) Washed or not, the audience would never know the difference. You would! (That is the same reason to wear real diamonds.)

Give it a try!

Bob Sanders
Magic By Sander