About Molly Bland

I am graphic artist and creative facilitator residing by the sea in sunny Morecambe, Lancashire. I work with collage and digital design to create playful responses to a wide range of briefs in graphic design, illustration, mural painting, textile design and many other disciplines. I also facilitate workshops in various creative practices. See more of Molly’s work here.

What is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is a printing technique where a mesh is used to transfer ink (or dye) onto a substrate, except in areas made impermeable to the ink by a blocking stencil. A blade or squeegee is moved across the screen to fill the open mesh apertures with ink, and a reverse stroke then causes the screen to touch the substrate momentarily along a line of contact. This causes the ink to wet the substrate and be pulled out of the mesh apertures as the screen springs back after the blade has passed. One colour is printed at a time, so several screens can be used to produce a multi-coloured image or design.

Traditionally, silk was used in the process. Currently, synthetic threads are commonly used in the screen printing process. The most popular mesh in general use is made of polyester. There are special-use mesh materials of nylon and stainless steel available to the screen-printer. There are also different types of mesh size which will determine the outcome and look of the finished design on the material. (Wikipedia)

This is a drop in activity from 11am until 3pm at Darwen Market.