To heat set a screen printed shirt using a heat press or easy press, you apply heat at 320 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 seconds. This process cures the ink, making it permanent and washable.
Curing screen printing ink is a crucial step to ensure the longevity of your design. It involves applying heat to the ink until it reaches a specific temperature, allowing it to bond with the fabric fibers. Without proper curing, the ink can wash out or crack over time.
Heat Setting with a Heat Press or Easy Press
Based on the provided information, a straightforward method for heat setting screen printed shirts is using a heat press or an easy press. This technique offers precise control over temperature and time, leading to reliable curing results for compatible inks.
Here are the steps involved:
- Prepare the Equipment: Ensure your heat press or easy press is clean and free of debris.
- Set the Temperature: Set the heat press or easy press to 320 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place the Shirt: Lay the screen printed shirt flat on the heat press platen, ensuring the printed area is centered. You may want to place a sheet of parchment paper or a Teflon sheet over the print to protect the platen and the print itself.
- Apply Heat: Lower the heat press platen or apply the easy press firmly onto the printed area.
- Set the Time: Press for the specified duration, which is 40 seconds.
- Remove and Cool: Lift the heat press or easy press. Carefully remove the shirt and lay it flat or hang it to cool completely before folding or wearing.
This controlled application of heat allows the ink to cure properly, creating a durable bond with the fabric. Always refer to the ink manufacturer's specific curing instructions, as temperatures and times can vary depending on the type of ink used.
