Removing silkscreen printing from clothes is easy and can be easily achieved with our 5 techniques. Now you can remove the unsightly, damaged logo printed on a hoodie you purchased at a thrift shop.
This post will show you 5 simple home screen printing removal techniques. Additionally, you will learn how to handle different textiles like polyester and how to deal with print residue.
How Does Screen Printing Work?
Screen printing is a process that allows for the transfer of ink or paint onto a substrate, such as a t-shirt. The first step is to create a stencil, which is done by blocking out areas of the screen where you do not want ink to appear. Once the stencil is complete, the screen is placed on top of the substrate and ink is applied to the top of the screen. As the ink passes through the screen, it will be deposited onto the substrate below. Finally, the substrate is removed from the screen and allowed to dry. This process can be repeated as needed to create multi-colored designs. Screen printing is a versatile and durable printing option that is perfect for t-shirts.
Removing Screen Printing on Clothes: 4 Practical Methods
As general advice, when attempting any of these procedures, put safety first. If you intend to deal with potent chemicals, wear gloves, open your windows and cover your work surface with plastic sheeting.
Here are five straightforward methods for getting screen printing off your clothes.
1. Sugar Scrub
Get some sugar and rub the screen-printed images gently using a soft brush or soft cloth. The sugar works as an abrasion to remove the screen printing.
Once you finish, you’ll want to rewash the item to remove all the sticky sugar.
2. Plastisol Remover
Plastisol remover is a chemical solvent that dissolves the ink used in screen printing. To use plastisol remover, simply apply it to the printed substrate and wait for the ink to dissolve. Once the ink has dissolved, you can then wash away any residual solvent with water. When using Plastisol remover, be sure to take precautions to avoid skin contact and inhalation of fumes. In addition, always test the solvent on a small area of the substrate before applying it to the entire surface. By following these simple steps, you can easily remove screen printing from almost any substrate.
3. Iron and Peel
This method melts the image onto a paper bag using an iron. Generally, you should avoid applying heat to any design you want to remove because it could make the ink harder to remove. This approach, however, is an exception to the rule.
Locate a sizable paper bag, such as those sold in supermarkets. Looking at the bag, you’ll see that one side shines slightly more than the other. Place the bag’s glossier side against the screen print pattern you want to remove.
Next, switch your iron to the lowest steam-free setting. After that, repeatedly move the iron back and forth over the paper bag. The design should tear away from the fabric as the heat encourages it to adhere to the paper bag.
You can scrape off the remaining ink with a plastic scraper or your fingernails if any of the design is still visible on the fabric.
4. Acetone or Nail Polish Remover
Acetone is a common solvent that can be used to remove silkscreen from a t-shirt. This approach is by far the most popular method as it is simple and has a high success rate. It’s also a handy technique to test initially because many of you undoubtedly have a bottle of nail paint remover at home. Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area, as acetone can be harmful if inhaled.
5. Spot Gun Cleaning
Spot gun cleaning is a common method for removing silkscreen from t-shirts. It involves using a small, handheld device to direct a concentrated stream of air at the shirt. The high-pressure air breaks up the bond between the silkscreen and the fabric, making it easier to remove. Spot gun cleaning is an effective way to remove silkscreen from t-shirts, but it can be time-consuming. In addition, it is important to be careful when using the device, as the concentrated stream of air can damage delicate fabrics.