I wanted a logo and I wanted to screen print it on my bags. So I learned to design logos and screen print. Okay, I learned the minimum basics required to do both, and bought the minimum basic materials to do them. I didn't want to spend a lot of money on something I have never even attempted before. Which means I have equipment from a starter kit, which did not include such screen printing necessities as hinge clamps, stretchers, photo emulsion applicators, or very comprehensive instructions. However, thanks to You Tube and some trial and error, I developed a pretty decent half-assed screen print method with what I allowed myself to buy.
The Used Art logo screen print (featuring Kenneth Noisewater the Cat) went so well, I thought I would branch out and try printing an image I made for Drew. It started out as a tattoo design for a Northwest Indian-influenced phoenix bird. The tattoo never happened, but I did paint it on a canvas tote that he used for several years before it eventually looked like this.
Drew's Phoenix
Since it had reached the Old Masters stage (cracked and faded), I figured it was time to replace it, and now that I am an old master at screen printing, I gave it a go.
For some reason (if I was really an old master at this I would know), this screen is a little trickier to print from. I have to use a very delicate touch spreading the ink. Too much and the ink bleeds through everywhere, not enough and I don't get a good covering of color. But I'm only two canvas bags in and there is a lot of room for improvement. I expect I will have sellable bags with this design in the near future.
This is how the first half-assed dual-screen print bags are looking. If I get enough interest, I will make some available for purchase, and maybe invest in some real screen printing equipment. MAYBE.
Drew's Phoenix screen print
Thanks for reading, friend. I APPRECIATE YOU.