How to Screen Print Shirts at Home

Screen Print Shirts

Are you looking for a quick and easy way to add some stylish screen print shirts to your wardrobe? Look no further than our guide on how to screen print shirts at home! This simple and easy process is perfect for anyone who wants to create their own unique screen prints, without having to go to a professional printer. Plus, it’s a great way to save money on your clothing expenses! So what are you waiting for? Start screen printing your own shirts today!

Also have a look at DIY Bath Bombs for Kids and Adults

Screen Print Shirts at Home

Hey there. remember when I told you I’d be back with another post to add on to those awesome tie dye t-shirts. Yeah, this is that post. You know, you should get out now, because if you got addicted to the fun of tie dye ( like some chicka I won’t name her name (moi)) then this will make it double trouble. Because making your own t-shirt designs is really freaking fun. Especially since I’m making shirts that it might not be as easy to get. Or, are so outrageously priced ( some volleyball shirts are $25 a piece) compare that to $4 a shirt, that I can make with any colors or saying, and frugal momma is happy happy happy!!!

Of course, you don’t have to make shirts with MY sayings, but use my shirts as a jumping point. If your kids need practice shirts, or school motto’s, or just need their voice to be heard, then I suggest you try this method of making screen print shirts at home. Minion #1 needed some workout gear – stuff to wear for volleyball practice, and also for showing off her sport.

I used Reynolds Freezer Paper – and cut out my images with my Cricut Expression. I use Cricut Craft Room online to access my images. I used a simple font for this shirt, adding a volleyball image to the word Volley. Cricut Carts – Team Spirit, Disney Princesses Happily Ever After, DoodleCharms, and Cricut Font and Basic Shapes

After my image was cut out ( cut the images with the dull side of the paper face up) I used an iron set to the medium setting ( this is not too exact – you just need the paper to stick to the fabric), and I ironed on the freezer paper to the shirt. I also tore off another sheet – stuck in into the shirt and had that ironed on at the same time. The inside piece is simply to keep the paint from bleeding through to the back of the shirt.

I used Yudu fabric paint- it really is a beautiful and long lasting paint. It is manufactured by Provo Craft and Cricut products are really nicely made.  It is also water soluble and cleans up with water, and set with the hot iron or the dryer.  I used a small scraper to pull the paint thinly onto the shirt.

Dot the paint into a couple pea sized dots of paint, then pull the paint down towards into the open spaces on the shirt.

Continue covering with paint until your image is fully covered.  Let dry overnight, pull off the freezer paper and put in the dryer on high heat, or use your iron over the image to set the paint.

I also added some orange dimensional fabric paint to accent the wording, because of the overlap in the design. I used a Hannah Montana cartridge to cut this phrase  and butterfly out. Cricut Cart – Hannah Montana

I used a collegiate font for this shirt, inserting the volleyball into the wording. I also marbled the pink and purple colors to match the colors in the shirt. Cricut cart – Varsity Letter and Team Spirit

If you are feeling adventurous, you can add glitter to the wording as well.

This phrase is from the Hannah Montana Cartridge as well, but after I colored the image, and allowed it to dry, I used a fabric paint on the word Glitter, and then dusted Yudu glitter over the wording. Yudu glitter is wash safe so the color won’t wash out of the glitter in the washing machine. Cricut Cart – Hannah Montana

Now, if you have a fangirl kid like I do – Minion#1 wanted to create a t-shirt that reflected her enjoyment of a TV show, one that just began and the shirts we found online were dark and not really reflective of the phrases she enjoys most from the show. Alizabeth really enjoyed season 1 of Hannibal. With the creative and ingenious mind of Hannibal Lecter and the insightful Will Graham, she wanted to include both of them on the shirt. See – frugal mom created a cool shirt for her, and she is uber excited to wear this for school. Even if this type of shirt is not your style or even your cup of tea, you can still create your own style of shirt with simple cutouts that reflect your personal style.

I used the font from A Frightful Affair on this shirt.  After I did the printing on the shirt, I mixed red and black together , then splattered the shirt with it to create the unique look. Cricut Carts – A Frightful Affair, To the Cabin.

In this blog we discuss the process of screen printing shirts at home, what materials you will need, and the steps involved. We hope that this guide will help you get started on your own screen printing adventure!

The Art of Custom Design: Unleashing Creativity In Screen Print Shirts

Custom screen printing is more than just a method for producing apparel; it’s an opportunity to express individuality and creativity. Whether you’re a small business looking to promote your brand or an individual wanting to showcase a personal message, the design possibilities are endless. From vibrant graphics to intricate patterns, the key to a successful screen-printed shirt lies in the design. Consider using bold colors and unique typography to capture attention, or opt for minimalist designs that convey elegance. By tapping into current design trends and understanding your target audience, you can create shirts that not only look great but also resonate with those who wear them.

Sustainable Screen Printing: A Greener Choice

As consumers become increasingly aware of environmental issues, the demand for sustainable products is on the rise. Screen printing can align with eco-friendly practices by utilizing water-based inks and organic or recycled materials. These choices not only reduce the environmental impact but also appeal to a growing demographic of environmentally conscious shoppers. Additionally, adopting sustainable practices can enhance your brand’s image, showcasing your commitment to responsible production. By highlighting your eco-friendly approach in your marketing materials, you can attract customers who value sustainability, ultimately setting your brand apart in a competitive marketplace.

Frequently Asked Questions About Screen Print Shirts

What material shirt is best for screen printing?

T-shirts and hoodies made of cotton are ideal for screen printing. This is because, unlike polyester and other synthetic materials, the fabric will absorb the printing ink organically.

How many shirts can one screen print?

Because the Trooper is an automatic t-shirt printer, you can print 180 to 6 colour shirts each hour.

Why do screen printed shirts crack?

Undercuring and overcuring are the two main causes of screen-printed t-shirt cracking. Undercuring occurs when the garment is not exposed to the proper temperature, whereas overcuring occurs when the garment is exposed to too much heat.

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