Screen printing on nylon bags requires specific techniques to ensure the ink adheres properly and lasts. Unlike printing on cotton or polyester, nylon's unique properties necessitate careful preparation, application, and curing. Based on recommended practices, here’s a step-by-step guide focusing on key considerations.
Key Steps for Printing on Nylon Bags
Successful screen printing on nylon involves paying close attention to the material's characteristics. Follow these essential steps derived from best practices:
1. Prepare the Substrate
- Preshrink your substrate: Before printing, it's crucial to prepare the nylon material. Preshrinking helps stabilize the fabric, potentially preventing issues like puckering or registration shifts after printing and curing.
- Smooth out any wrinkles: A smooth surface is vital for a clean print. Ensure the nylon bag is free from wrinkles or creases before placing it on the print platens. Wrinkles can lead to uneven ink deposit and poor image quality.
2. Printing Technique
- Use a single squeegee stroke: For effective ink transfer and coverage on nylon, it is often recommended to apply the ink with a single, firm squeegee stroke. This technique helps lay down the appropriate amount of ink without overworking the material or pushing ink through the weave excessively.
3. Curing Process
- Cure at a lower temperature for longer: Nylon can be sensitive to heat. To prevent damage to the bag and ensure the ink cures properly, use a curing method that utilizes a lower temperature setting but for a longer duration compared to standard garment curing. This allows the ink to solidify without overheating the nylon.
4. Post-Curing Treatment
- Allow finished products to rest for 72 hours after curing: After the curing process is complete, it is important to let the printed bags rest. Allowing them to sit undisturbed for approximately 72 hours helps the ink fully set and achieve maximum durability and wash fastness.
5. Important Considerations
- Beware of waterproof substrates: Nylon bags, especially those marketed as waterproof, can present additional challenges for screen printing. The coating or treatment that makes them waterproof may also repel ink, requiring specialized inks or additional preparation steps. Be cautious when printing on such materials.
- Clean screens and squeegees immediately after printing: Nylon inks, particularly those formulated for difficult substrates, can dry quickly in the screen mesh. To prevent clogging and maintain your equipment, thoroughly clean your screens and squeegees immediately after completing your print run on nylon bags.
By following these steps and considerations, you can significantly improve the quality and durability of your screen prints on nylon bags.
