Log And Mushroom Shirt

For this project, gather the following:

1. Inks:

• Single color: dark brown or black (Speedball or xTool brands are recommended)

2. Screen Printing Equipment:

• xTool screen printer

• 1 coated screen

3. A Drying Tool Either (Optional) :

• Hairdryer

• Heat press

• Heat gun

4. Apparel:

• Tan or pinkish shirt

1. Launch xTool Creative Space:

• Open the xTool Creative Space software on your computer.

2. Prepare for Screen Engraving:

• Go to settings and switch the “Process on Flat Surface” option to “Screen Preparation” for proper screen engraving setup.

• Click on “Calibrate Origin” and use the on-screen controls to align the laser to the top right corner of the screen for precise alignment.

3. Adjust Engraving Settings:

• Set the Easy Set parameters to 100% power and 135 speed. These settings are ideal for accurately engraving the screen.

Note: If you have Air Assist and it works properly, use it to prevent issues with particles sticking to the mesh.

1. Adjust Design Size:

With a Projector (Optional):

• Project the design onto the shirt for accurate placement.

• Use small pieces of tape to mark the projected design’s position.

• Measure and adjust the design size in xTools to fit the shirt properly.

Without a Projector:

• If a projector is not available, estimate the design size.

• Measure the design area and adjust the size in xTools accordingly.

2. Center the Design:

• Fold the shirt vertically to find its center for symmetrical alignment.

• Mark the center with tape or sticker paper to guide precise placement during printing.

1. Prepare the Screen:

• Use one screen for the single-color design. Ensure it is ready for engraving.

• Attach the frame fixing piece on the left side of the screen if needed.

2. Align and Scale the Design:

• In xTool Creative Space, ensure the design fits within the green engravable area of the screen.

• Confirm that the design is horizontally mirrored to ensure correct printing on the shirt.

3. Start Engraving:

• Press “Calibrate Origin” if not done already and adjust the laser head using the on-screen controls.

• Click “Process” to begin engraving. The time required will vary depending on the design size, typically taking a little over an hour.

• If you’re new to screen printing, consider watching a YouTube tutorial on using the xTool Screen Printer for additional guidance.

1. Install the Engraved Screen:

• Remove the engraved screen from the laser cutter.

• Securely attach the screen to the screen printer.

2. Prepare the Shirt and Printing Plate:

• Place a sticky mat on the wooden plate of the screen printer to keep the shirt from moving.

• Lay the shirt on the mat, smoothing out any wrinkles.

3. Align the Shirt:

• Use the adjustment knobs at the bottom of the plate to position the shirt accurately.

• Center the shirt using tape markings as a guide for precise alignment.

4. Apply the Ink:

• Open the jar of dark brown or black ink and stir it with the spatula.

• Apply a layer of ink to the screen.

• Use a squeegee to spread the ink across the design area on the screen, ensuring it penetrates effectively.

5. Print and Dry:

• Lower the screen onto the shirt and drag the squeegee across the design to transfer the ink. Apply even pressure for consistent results.

• Lift the screen to check the design. Add more ink if needed and repeat the process until the design is fully covered.

• Dry the ink using a hairdryer, heat gun, or heat press. The ink should dry within a few hours; if air-drying, it may take up to 24 hours.

6. Complete the Process:

• Carefully remove the shirt from the plate to avoid smudging.

• Allow the shirt to dry completely before handling.