Exposure!!!

[duckz10]

Hi, newbie again!!!
Having an absolutely minute budget to start up with, I'm trying to come up with household(ish) items to help do the job. So, would a multi-tube sunbed be used to expose a design on the prepared screen?
Thanks in advance,
Duckz

[Saati]

Honestly that is a new one for me. In the last 15 years I have heard just about every way to expose a screen:
A stolen street light
a pair of headlights from a acura
halogen work lights
4' blacklight bulbs fom the local spencer's
#2 photo flood light bulbs
sunlight
regular florecent lights

and now this....

Will it work.... in theory ....yes. tanning beds usually use bulbs that kick out UVA and this is the necessary wavelength for screen printing emulsions. the next problem you have is accuracy of timing the exposure and then getting good contact with your film positive.

good luck

[duckz10]

Ha ha, I do like to be original!!!!!
I take your point re-exposure time, but I guess that goes for all newbies using rather more conventional equipment?!
As for ensuring good contact......... a flat board with black foam placed on top, the screen placed on that then a sheet of glass to finish should work, yes?
A little trial & error is great, you don't learn to properly ride a bike unless you fall off a few times!!!!
Many thanks,
Duckz.

[duckz10]

Oh, almost forgot......
Could the afore mentioned sunbed be further utilised to complete the final cure of the ink on the shirt?
Duckz.

[Saati]

As for ensuring good contact......... a flat board with black foam placed on top, the screen placed on that then a sheet of glass to finish should work, yes?

That has worked for me in the past.

[Saati]

Oh, almost forgot......
Could the afore mentioned sunbed be further utilised to complete the final cure of the ink on the shirt?
Duckz.

my first thought is no. plastisol inks require heat not light to cure.

[duckz10]

Thanks for the advice. I'm sure I'll be posting again soon!!!!!