What is flatbed screen printing?

Answer 1

A flatbed screen printer is a type of printing press.

"Flatbed" because the pice that presses on to the paper is flat, as opposed to a "rotary" press which is a revolving cylinder where the paper passes over at high speed.

See the related links for some more descriptions and an photo.

Answer 2

Flatbed screen printing, also known as flatbed silk screen printing, is a printing technique that involves using a flatbed screen printing machine to transfer ink onto flat or slightly curved surfaces. In this process, a screen made of fabric, usually silk or polyester, is stretched tightly over a frame. Areas of the screen that are not intended to be printed are blocked out with a stencil or emulsion, leaving open mesh areas through which ink can pass.

Here's how flatbed screen printing typically works:

Preparation: The item to be printed, such as paper, fabric, plastic, metal, or glass, is placed flat on the printing bed of the flatbed screen printing machine.

Ink Application: Ink is poured onto the screen, usually near one end of the frame. A squeegee is then used to spread the ink evenly across the surface of the screen, forcing the ink through the open mesh areas and onto the substrate below.

Printing: The screen is lowered onto the surface of the substrate, with the inked mesh in direct contact with the material. Pressure is applied to the screen using a squeegee or a pneumatic mechanism, forcing the ink through the mesh and onto the substrate in the desired pattern or design.

Curing: After printing, the ink is typically dried or cured using heat, UV light, or other methods to ensure that it adheres properly to the substrate and becomes permanent.

Flatbed screen printing is commonly used for printing on a wide range of materials, including paper, cardboard, textiles, plastics, metals, glass, and ceramics. It is widely used in industries such as packaging, signage, textiles, electronics, automotive, and promotional products for producing high-quality, durable prints with vibrant colors and precise details.