In order to support prints having more than just one colour, we will need our press to be able to load more than just one screen- even if it is only one screen at a time. To do this, we need to build a mechanism which will allow us to preset a screen position over the platen, and repeatably remove or mount screens in such a way that they always position correctly in the same spot.
Spring loading allows the screen to be maintained in either a raised or lowered position. Without this, one would have to manually hold the screen up while adjusting the work on the platen.
A rather important feature of any versatile screen printing press, is it’s ability to accurately and repeatably position a screen directly over the target printing area, and also to raise the screen up and away from the target.
Our press is made to be laid flat upon a table, or other flat sturdy surface, so that it may be conveniently stashed out of the way when not in use.
Printing presses, especially those suited for t-shirts, are readily available. Both single screen and multiple 4, or 6 colour presses may be found. These professional presses will give great results, but they generally have two down sides: They can be very costly, and take up a lot of space.