What is screen printing?
Screen printing is a technique whereby you force paint onto a surface through a screen of fine material to create a pattern.
Tell us a bit about yourself? How did you get into screen printing?
Probably because of my mum, she always has a project on the go and a sewing machine in tow.
I have always loved changing the design of a particular surface. This made me interested in studying surface textiles and fashion. From working for various retailers and print studios I decided I wanted to share the screen-printing process and show how you can be playful with any surface.
Where do you get your inspiration?
Since moving to Cornwall I have found inspiration mainly from the coastline.
Do you have a favourite/specific room you craft in like a studio?
I love to craft from the print studio which is not far from the harbour front in St.Ives.
What are your Top Tips for beginners?
1 Always take your time when cutting out stencils.
2 Make sure you feel comfortable with the tools you are using. If it doesn’t feel right, it's not right.
3 Your print will tell you everything. If your screen print is flooded you need to adapt the pressure to print your design. Make sure to test and trial printing to allow you to get used to the pressure of the equipment.
4 Take breaks and make sure you stretch, as printing requires a lot of leaning over your workspace.
5 Have fun and always try printing in different directions to which you would normally, as this may take you down another exciting printing avenue.
Do you have any exciting plans in the pipeline?
As I love seeing people print all over the place, I have plans to pop up all over the place in the new year to prove how easy printing can be and how addictive it can be.
Beginner's Guide to Screen Printing is available now.
You can follow Erin @pickprettypaints and find out more on her website here.
Head over to our Facebook page to be in with a chance of winning a copy of the book AND some paint and bunting flags so you can start screen printing straight away!
