====== Process Notes & Resources ======

===== Home-printed UV Transparencies =====

We have been experimenting with printing transparencies to be used for UV exposure for both photopolymer platemaking and screen printing. Materials used so far:

  * Canon Pixma TS6320
  * Dye-based UV-blocking Ink and Refillable Cartridges from [[https://www.inkowl.com/screenprinting/screenprinting-ink-bottles/C16_S50/|InkOwl]]
  * Waterproof Transparent Inkjet Film from [[https://www.inkowl.com/screenprinting/inkjet-film/C16_S100/|InkOwl]]

To avoid issues with print settings consistency between software programs and cut down on mistakes, I bought a full set of refillable cartridges and filled all 5 with UV-blocking black ink; this way the print is always black. The one thing that I still need to watch out for in my files is tint fills and/or fills that are not 100% opacity.

See sections below for info related to platemaking or screenmaking specifically.
 

==== Notes from InkOwl re: Cartridge Management ====

If you are currently using any other ink, including original Epson or Canon ink, eliminating the old ink is required:
  * Before beginning the conversion process, print a nozzle check to confirm that the printhead is working properly. Do not attempt to perform a conversion on a printer that is not printing correctly.
  * Inject some of our black screenprinting ink into a set of refillable cartridges.
  * Perform 5 Printhead Cleanings to eliminate the old ink.
  * If the Nozzle Check pattern is mostly restored but not totally, wait 24 hours before continuing with Printhead Cleanings.


===== Platemaking =====

We have been experimenting with exposing KF95 photopolymer plate material with our [[processes:exposure-box|DIY exposure box]].

==== Notes: ====

  * **Print artwork reversed (with a black background) but __not mirrored__.**
  * For exposure, the "Golden rule" is Emulsion-to-Emulsion (Ink-to-Polymer). The printed ink/toner on the transparency must touch the raw polymer directly; if the ink side is facing up, the thickness of the plastic film itself will cause light to scatter, washing away fine details.


===== Screenmaking =====

==== Notes ====
  * **Print artwork mirrored, but __not reversed__ (clear background).**