To kick off this project, follow these steps in xTools Creative Space:
    1.    Change “Process on Flat Surface” to “Screen Preparation.”
    2.    Click “Calibrate Origin” and use the on-screen buttons to align the laser to the top right.
    3.    Adjust the Easy Set settings to 100% power and 135 speed. I find these settings more effective.
    4.    When I used the Air Assist, it did not work for me, but it might work for you.

Techniques for Positioning a Shirt Design
Projector Approach:
    •    Project the design onto the shirt using an affordable projector.
    •    Use small white sticker paper or tape to mark the design’s location.
    •    Measure the design size for accuracy.
Non-Projector Approach:
    •    Estimate the design’s dimensions.
    •    Measure one dimension with a ruler.
    •    Resize the design to fit different shirt sizes for optimal results.
Centering the Design:
    •    Fold the shirt in half to find the center.
    •    Mark the center with tape or sticker paper for proper placement.
Reminder: Resize the design in xTools Creative Space to ensure it fits your shirt perfectly.
 

Using D1 Pro to Engrave a Single-Color Screen:

    •    The next task is to engrave the screen for our single-color design using the D1 Pro.
    •    Follow these steps to ensure precise engraving and setup for screen printing.

    1.    Prepare Screen: You only need to engrave one screen for the single color in the design.
    2.    Align and Scale: Ensure the origin is aligned and the design is scaled and positioned correctly within the green engravable area.
    3.    Flip and Orient: Verify the design is flipped horizontally and oriented correctly for your shirt.
    4.    Start Engraving: Begin the engraving process. Time will vary based on the design size; mine took about 30 minutes.
    5.    Watch Tutorial: While the D1 Pro is engraving, watch this YouTube video on screen printing with the xTools Screen Printer for technical guidance.

    1.    Engraved Screen Setup: Take the screen from the laser cutter and attach it to the Screen Printer securely.
    2.    Prepare the Shirt and Plate: Place a sticky mat on the wooden plate to hold the shirt in place during printing. Lay the shirt on the sticky mat. The mat is crucial for keeping the shirt stationary. For white ink, multiple coats are needed for a vibrant appearance.
    3.    Align the Shirt: Use the three knobs at the bottom of the plate to adjust and align the shirt. Center the shirt accurately with the tape markings.
    4.    Apply White Ink: Flood the screen with white ink at a 45-degree angle, ensuring full coverage by adding extra ink at the design’s bottom.
    5.    Print and Dry: Lower the screen onto the shirt and pull the squeegee across the design to apply the ink. Lift the screen and dry the ink with a hair dryer, heat gun, or heat press. Repeat steps 4 and 5 until the ink is vibrant.
    6.    Finish: Remove the shirt carefully from the plate and let it dry completely, which may take up to 24 hours without heat. The ink is fully dry when it is no longer sticky.