Silkkipainolla

Silkkipainolla, also known as silk screen printing or serigraphy, is a printing technique that uses a woven mesh to support an ink-blocking stencil. A blade or squeegee is moved across the screen to press ink or paint through the mesh in the areas determined by the stencil. This method is versatile and can be used on a variety of materials, including paper, fabric, plastic, and metal.

The process begins with creating a stencil, which can be done in several ways. One common method is to use a photographic process, where an image is transferred onto a photosensitive emulsion coated on the screen. Areas exposed to light harden, while unexposed areas remain soft and can be washed away, creating the open areas for ink to pass through. Alternatively, stencils can be cut from a thin film or painted directly onto the screen.

Once the stencil is in place, the screen is positioned over the substrate. Ink is then poured onto the screen, and a squeegee is used to spread it across the entire surface of the screen. The ink passes only through the open areas of the stencil, transferring the design onto the material below. Multiple colors can be applied by using separate screens for each color.

Silkkipainolla is favored for its ability to produce vibrant, opaque colors and its durability. It is widely used for printing on textiles, posters, decals, and industrial products. The technique allows for printing on uneven surfaces and can achieve a high level of detail depending on the mesh count and stencil precision. Its relative simplicity and cost-effectiveness for producing large quantities have made it a popular choice for many applications.