-
Empty cart
No products in the cart.
Return to Shop
How to Stop Fibrillation & What is Fibrillation?
What is Fibrillation?
In screen printing, fibrillation refers to the splitting or fraying of fibers that can occur in the screen mesh, resulting in a rough or uneven print. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including using a screen mesh that is too fine for the ink being used, using excessive pressure when printing, or using improper screen tension. Fibrillation can also be caused by wear and tear on the screen mesh over time, as well as by improper screen cleaning or storage. To prevent fibrillation, it is important to use the correct screen mesh size for the ink being used, maintain proper screen tension, and handle and care for the screen properly.
How Does Fibrillation Affect Prints?
Fibrillation can have a negative impact on the longevity of prints produced using screen printing. When the screen mesh frays or splits, it can create rough or uneven areas in the print, which can weaken the print and make it more prone to fading or wear over time. In addition, fibrillation can create small gaps in the print, which can allow air and moisture to reach the substrate and cause the ink to degrade more quickly. This can lead to a shorter lifespan for the print, as well as a loss of vibrancy and color over time. To ensure the longevity of screen printed prints, it is important to prevent fibrillation by using the correct screen mesh size, maintaining proper screen tension, and properly caring for and cleaning the screen.
There are several other factors that can affect the longevity of screen printed prints. These include the type of ink used, the quality of the substrate, and the conditions under which the print is displayed or used.
The type of ink used can have a significant impact on the longevity of a print. Some inks are more resistant to fading or wear than others, and using a high-quality ink can help to extend the lifespan of the print.
The quality of the substrate can also affect the longevity of the print. Substrates that are of lower quality or are prone to damage may not hold up as well over time, resulting in a shorter lifespan for the print.
Finally, the conditions under which the print is displayed or used can also impact its longevity. For example, prints that are exposed to direct sunlight or other sources of UV light may fade more quickly, while prints that are handled or worn frequently may suffer from more wear and tear. By taking these factors into account, you can help to ensure the longevity of your screen printed prints. Overall, fibrillation can greatly reduce the longevity of screen printed prints if it is not properly addressed.
Steps to Prevent Fibrillation:
Here are some steps you can take to help prevent fibrillation in screen printing:
- Use the correct screen mesh size: Make sure to use a screen mesh that is suitable for the type of ink you are printing with. Using a mesh that is too fine can cause fibrillation.
- Maintain proper screen tension: Proper screen tension is essential for preventing fibrillation and producing a clean print. Use a tension meter to ensure that the screen is properly tensioned.
- Use proper printing technique: Avoid applying excessive pressure when printing, as this can cause fibrillation. Use a smooth, even stroke and maintain a consistent distance between the screen and the substrate.
- Properly care for and clean the screen: Over time, screen mesh can become worn or damaged, leading to fibrillation. Properly clean and store the screen to extend its lifespan.
- Regularly check and maintain the screen: Inspect the screen regularly for signs of wear or damage, and make any necessary repairs or replacements.
- Using quality apparel can also help prevent fibrillation. Higher quality apparel tends to have tighter weaves which allow for a better foundation for printing than a carded-open-end shirt. This means that your prints will come out looking cleaner and better quality.
- Another way to stop fibrillation and stop the fibers from sticking up is to change-out your squeegee using a different durometer that’s softer or harder depending on the adjustment needed. This is something that many screen printers, beginner or experienced tend to forget about. A softer squeegee and changing the angle of the squeegee will allow more ink to pass down onto the garment while a harder squeegee will do the opposite
By following these steps, you can help prevent fibrillation and produce high-quality prints.
As a business that prides itself on producing high-quality screen printed shirts, we understand the importance of using the best materials and techniques to create prints that will last. That’s why we use only the finest inks and substrates, and take care to maintain proper screen tension and prevent fibrillation in our printing process.
With our commitment to excellence, you can trust that the shirts you purchase from us will not only look great, but will also stand the test of time. Whether you’re looking for shirts to wear for casual occasions, to promote your business, or for any other purpose, we have a wide selection of styles and sizes to choose from.
So if you want to purchase high-quality shirts that you can count on, look no further than our business. We are confident that you’ll be satisfied with the quality and durability of the shirts you receive from us. You can buy a custom shirt here.