Gradients can be seen all over the place. So here is the main trick to ensure that you get a smooth border.
What do I mean? When looking at the top print you see that there is a somewhat hard line between the blue and rose color, while we there is a smooth transition between the colors.
So, what do you need to do? Mix the colors 😉
- Ensure that you have some space within your screen next to the print area.
- Ensure that your squeege is wide enough to cover the full height of the design
- When you add the colors it’s easier when there is a slight overlap
- You may want to put the screen on test fabric or a piece of paper
- Ensure that you do keep your screen firmly on the surface to avoid smudging on the bottom side
- Now move your squeege slightly forth and back (left and right) within the color area to mix the colors (try avoid apply color on the print area)
- Once you see the middle area between the two colors has been mixed sufficiently flood your screen as you normally would –
- and print.
It can be a good idea to print the first round on a test fabric piece to ensure the colors have properly mixed – and then only do the second print on the “real thing”.
Hope this short step by step guide was helpful. If you want to see a short video, hop over to instagram.
You can find the stencil here.