How to: Taped Screenprints

Learn how to create bold, geometric prints on fabric which can then be turned into cushion covers, tote bags, or stapled to wooden frames to be displayed as artwork. This simple technique uses everyday sellotape to mask off areas and (despite the title!) doesn't involve a screen at all. 

Materials required

 

Medium weight fabric (canvas / calico work well)

Sellotape

Scissors

Fabric Paints

Ruler / Measuring tape

Newspaper

Paper and Pencil

Plastic card

Sponge / brush

Container(s) to mix paints

Tuppaware lid

Chalk

Plastic Spoon

Step 1. Sketch your design 

With your pencil and paper, sketch some ideas until you have something you really like. You may decide to deviate in the process (like I did) which is fine! But it helps to have an idea before you start taping... 

Step 2. Prepare your Workspace

 

Lay down newspaper to protect your work surface. Assemble all the bits and bobs you are going to need within easy reach.

Step 3. Start Taping

 

If you are happy to freestyle then just get taping according to your design. If you are more the perfectionist-type then you can use your ruler / measuring tape and tailor's chalk to sketch out the guidelines for your tape placement. Try to get everything as aligned as you can (if that's the look you're going for) and make sure to cut your tape neatly. If the tape buckles then best remove that strip and try agin - you don't want any paint to seep in under the edge.

When you're happy with your layout, run your fingers over the taped bits a few times to make sure it's really attached and then scrape your plastic card over as well for good measure, making sure all edges are sealed.

Step 4. Paint!

Mix your paint:

You could use a ready-made colour which would be easiest but if you're mixing your own shade, now's the time to do it. Pour in drips of your primary colours, adding white or black if you want to adjust the shade, using your plastic spoon to mix until you have something you're happy with. Best to make a little bit more paint than you think you'll need as you don't want to run out of your custom mix.

Paint:

Coat your brush / sponge well enough but dab on your tuppaware lid to make sure it's not over-saturated and start to apply the colour to the fabric in even, sweeping motions. Fill all the gaps, corners and edges. When you've finished the whole piece, go back and touch up any areas you've missed.

Let dry:

Allow your piece to dry for a few hours or overnight. Be patient my dear!

Step 5. Remove Tape

When your masterpiece is completely dry, peel off the tape and gasp with delight.

Cover with a cloth and iron to heat set for a couple of minutes.

You're finished! Whoo-hoo! xx