Screen Printing

Learning to screen print was a great way to get to know local artists and produce high-quality products on paper and fabric. Working with Print Workers, a studio in Gracia in Barcelona, was also a great experience. Something I hope I can find in the USA.

The process is straightforward in theory, but I couldn’t find the exact details online, even with the videos people post. So, taking the class was the best way to understand the details of this process. Doing an in-person session and then signing up for studio time was excellent.

The owner, Alex, is a great teacher with much experience. He does all the work of placing the fotolitos (I haven’t learned the word in English yet) and doing the revealing on the screen. That machine is probably the reason why it is hard to have a shop at home.

After that, there is an extensive trial-and-error process of getting the correct pressure on the paper, the proper location of the paper in the table, and learning how the ink dries on different kinds of paper; for example, do not use Stone Paper unless you have a full day or more to let it dry! I lost many sheets this way.

The Studio Time

Time goes by really fast, and it is hard to produce a lot in one day. As the culture in Barcelona dictates, the studio closes from 2 to 4, so you have to find some distraction and rest, which is the whole point, and then come back. You also have to leave everything clean before you go, which is a great way to learn how to keep your tools clean and give them a long life.

The prototypes we are developing are primarily on paper and cotton garments. The goal is to find the right color + pattern and the best way to make future products for PINC.

The Result

The result is stunning. The paper's texture and the paint's matt finish create a cover that is reach to the touch. The paper still needs to be sealed for durability, but the finish has this slight imperfection, making every notebook unique.