Screen Printing Troubleshooting 101: Your Guide to
Perfect Prints

Screen printing is a rewarding craft, but it can also be frustrating when things go wrong.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, encountering problems is inevitable. That’s
why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you troubleshoot common screen printing
issues and achieve flawless results.

Common Screen Printing Problems and Solutions

Ink Issues
● Ink is too thick: This can lead to clogged screens and uneven prints.
○ Solution: Add a small amount of ink reducer to thin it out.
● Ink is too thin: This can cause poor coverage and color inconsistencies.
○ Solution: Use a retarder to thicken the ink.
● Ink is drying too fast: This can result in cracking and poor adhesion.
○ Solution: Use a retarder or humidity tent to slow down drying.

Screen Issues
● Clogged screen: This prevents ink from passing through the mesh.
○ Solution: Use a screen cleaning solution and a brush to clear the clog.
● Low screen tension: This can cause ink to bleed and distort the image.
○ Solution: Re-tension the screen or replace it if necessary.
● Exposure issues: Improper exposure can lead to weak or incomplete images.
○ Solution: Adjust exposure time and check emulsion quality

Registration Problem

● Misaligned prints: This occurs when colors don’t line up correctly.
○ Solution: Use registration marks and a pin system to ensure accurate alignment.
● Screen movement: This can cause registration issues.
○ Solution: Secure your screens tightly to prevent movement.

Image Quality Issues
● Halftone dots are too large or small: This affects the overall appearance of the print.
○ Solution: Adjust the screen mesh count or film positive to achieve the desired dot
size.

● Image is blurry or distorted: This can be caused by several factors, including screen
tension, emulsion quality, and ink consistency.
○ Solution: Check each of these elements and make adjustments as needed.

Prevention is Key

To avoid many of these problems, it’s essential to:
● Use high-quality inks, emulsions, and screens.
● Properly clean and maintain your equipment.
● Follow recommended exposure and curing times.
● Test your setup before starting a large production run.
● Pay attention to details and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
By understanding the common challenges and implementing these solutions, you can
significantly improve your screen printing results. Remember, practice makes perfect, and with
patience and persistence, you’ll achieve the print quality you desire.