Screen Printing at Oil and Cotton

Screen printing, also known as silkscreen printing or serigraphy is a most simply put, a stenciling process. An image is transferred onto a screen of polyester or other fine mesh, with blank areas coated with an impermeable substance, and ink is forced into the mesh openings of the mesh by the fill blade and onto the printing surface. Screen printing first appeared in China during the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD). The silk meshed used during that time has now been replace by synthetic materials. Screen printing is one most versatile and accessible of all printing processes, and can be used to print on just about anything.

Join us for our five week DIY Screen Printing Class, June 2 - 30, 3-6pm. This workshop will provide an in depth understanding of the screen printing process. Students will build a press and learn everything they need to know to silkscreen within their own home/studio. During class, students will complete at least two silkscreen projects. Each student will receive an 18 page workbook filled with information and tips for continued printing after class! This is the last week for registration. Visit our website to sign up today. We are also offering a five week Saturday Screen Printing Camp for Kids June 2-30, 1-2:30.

The above screen print, titled Three Deer, was originally printed by American Indian artist Woody Crumbo in the 1950's. To learn more about his work visit the National Museum of the American Indian.