How to Do Screen Printing at Your Kitchen Table

Create custom t-shirts and bags with this beginner-friendly screen printing guide using household supplies.

1. Gather Your Screen Printing Supplies. You'll need an embroidery hoop (8-10 inches works well), sheer curtain fabric or old pantyhose, painter's tape, acrylic paint, dish soap, a plastic spoon or squeegee, cardboard, and plain fabric items to print on. For the stencil, use contact paper, freezer paper, or cut shapes from cardstock. Protect your table with a plastic tablecloth or garbage bags taped down securely.
2. Make Your Screen. Stretch the sheer fabric tightly across the embroidery hoop and secure it in place. The fabric should be taut like a drum. If you're using pantyhose, cut off one leg and stretch it over the hoop. This homemade screen will hold your stencil and allow paint to pass through onto your fabric.
3. Create Your Design Stencil. Draw or print your design on contact paper, then carefully cut it out with scissors or a craft knife. Parents should handle sharp tools for younger children. Remove the backing and stick the stencil firmly to the underside of your screen, making sure all edges are sealed down. For freezer paper, iron the shiny side onto the screen instead.
4. Prepare Your Paint. Mix acrylic paint with a small amount of dish soap to help it spread smoothly and wash out of clothes later. Use about 1 part soap to 10 parts paint. Stir well until combined. This mixture will flow through your screen better than straight acrylic paint.
5. Set Up Your Printing Station. Place cardboard inside your t-shirt or fabric item to prevent paint from bleeding through to the back. Position your item on the table where you want to print. Have paper towels, extra paint, and a cup of water nearby for quick cleanup.
6. Print Your Design. Place your screen on top of the fabric where you want the design. Pour a line of paint mixture across the top of your stencil area. Using steady pressure, drag the paint across the entire stencil with your squeegee or spoon, moving from top to bottom in one smooth motion. Lift the screen straight up immediately after your first pass.
7. Clean Up and Set Your Print. Remove the cardboard and let your printed item dry flat for at least 24 hours. Clean your screen immediately with warm soapy water before the paint dries. Once your print is completely dry, place a cloth over it and iron on medium heat for 30 seconds to set the design and make it washable.