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Today, screen printing is used across the globe in a wide variety of industries. However, historians date the technique back as far as 960 AD during the Song Dynasty in China. Tens of thousands of years before that, however, cave people used hand stencils made from a variety of natural materials. Since screen printing is technically a more advanced form of stenciling, humans have been honing this skill since virtually the beginning of time. 

Screen Printing History 101 

Early Years 

Following China’s lead, countries like Japan adapted and refined the technology to suit their needs. Western Europe and other parts of Asia also began screen printing around the late 18th century; however, it did not become widely available or accepted in Europe until silk mesh was more readily available.

Early 20th Century

screen printingAround 1910, printers experimented with photo-reactive chemicals and gelatin compounds, which paved the way for the emulsion process used in screen printing today. Printers Edward Owens, Roy Beck, and Charles Peter became the first to create photo-stenciled images, which have become important to the advancement of the technique. Today, contemporary printers utilize less toxic chemicals to print, however.

1960 & Beyond 

Silkscreen printing became particularly pertinent to the unrest that transpired during the Civil Rights era. Artists, protesters, and other people who wanted to speak out used the technology to create vibrant, eye-catching images quickly and easily. Today, Andy Warhol’s iconic “Marilyn Diptych” remains one of the most recognized screen creations of the era.

 

In 2018, anyone can take advantage of the endless customization options that screen printing offers. If you would like to begin your next project, consult Ohio’s screen printing professionals. The team from Sports & Sports offers high-quality custom shirts, spirit wear, and sporting goods. To learn more, visit their website. You may also call today at (440) 998-4664 in Ashtabula or (480) 553-7305 in Madison, OH.

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