Getting into screen printing is easier than it looks once you have the right supplies. Here's a beginner's checklist of everything you need to start printing T-shirts, totes, and more.
The Screen
- A frame with tensioned mesh — aluminium frames stay truer than wood.
- The right mesh count — lower for bold prints on fabric, higher for fine detail.
The Squeegee
- A firm rubber blade for even ink pulls.
- A comfortable handle sized to your screen.
Inks
- Water-based ink — eco-friendly and easy to clean; great for beginners.
- Plastisol ink — vibrant and durable, popular for T-shirts.
- Start with black, white, and a couple of colours.
Making Stencils
- Photo emulsion & a light source — for detailed, reusable stencils.
- Vinyl or paper stencils — quick and easy for beginners.
- Transparency film — to print your design for exposing.
Cleanup & Extras
- A wash area and screen cleaner/reclaimer.
- Spatulas for scooping ink.
- Tape to block edges.
- A heat source (heat gun or iron) to cure fabric prints.
A Simple Starter Kit
A pre-stretched screen, a squeegee, water-based ink, and a stencil method will get you printing. Add emulsion and more colours as you grow.
Get a complete beginner's screen printing kit at nestoracitadel.shop — free delivery across India, with 7-day returns.