Using Layers does not affect how your artwork is output by your screen printer it just makes it easier for you to work on. Each of the three colors is going to form a separate artwork in a separate layer, using elements from the main image for each color. The most reliable way to produce artwork for screen printing is to manually prepare it in Adobe Illustrator. The third technique, Overprint, is the easiest to achieve as the top color prints directly on top of the bottom color often this produces a new color, as the top ink color is not always opaque. Screen printing is not always an exact printing technique, especially when printing onto fabric surfaces for this reason the Knockout technique is rarely used, as it relies on printing a color precisely in a gap left on the bottom color. The Trap technique is when the bottom color “bleeds” under the top color, ensuring no gaps are left from inaccurate printing of the second color (when the so-called “registration” between the colors is “off”). There are three artwork techniques commonly used for this type of printing: Trap, Knockout and Overprint. Each of these layers interact with each other to form a complete image. Inspiring Illustrator Artworks By Artists Around The WorldĪs the t-shirt is going to be printed in three colors, we have to create separate artwork for each layer of color.35 Excellent Adobe Illustrator Video Tutorials.An In-Depth Study Of Symbols In Illustrator CS5.40 Excellent Adobe Illustrator Tutorials.Be sure to communicate with your printer as they will specify their requirements, and will often give you tips for avoiding potential issues in the process.

In this post, Adobe Illustrator will be used to create a three-color screen print using a fictional company logo, and have it set up to allow a screen printer to easily print the color separations that create the separate screens for each color print.Īlthough some printers prefer to create their own separations, it’s always good to understand the process. They are a promotional item that people can actually use, and they have the added bonus of being an advertisement for you. Getting t-shirts printed is an ideal way to promote your business, organization or event.

Illustratory photocopy effect