OUGD603 Leeds Print Fest - Print Process Research

Screen Printing

The process of screen printing is applying a design to a mesh screen, ink is then pushed through the screen to create an image. With screen printing you use positives create the image this means you design exactly how you want to see your print. Unlike digital print, screen printing allows you to print in almost any colour. For example neons, metallics, and even the likes of thermo inks. Not only can use a variety of colours but you can experiment with the way in which the ink is applied and pushed through the mesh.

Relief & Block & Mono Printing

These processes although different are very similar in the way they are printed. Almost all of these processes involve some form of plate (made from any material) where the ink is applied, obstructed, or drawn into it. They are then put through a printing press or something similar that can apply an exert force. Unlike screen printing colour is somewhat limited and expensive with the primary colours you can make any colour. These styles of printing are very experimental.

Letterpress

Letterpress is also technically a form of relief printing. You can use type and image to print with on things such as business cards.

To use the letterpress type and image must be placed in reversed in order to print correctly. Letters are often in singular pieces meaning the process can be quite time consuming. The same inks can be used for letterpress as well as other relief printing methods (oil based inks)

Letterpress although constricted can be made experimental by for example not using a chase to set the type. Colour is also something you could mix up.