Screen Printing Tools
Decide between bench hinges and a manual press
Build a fixed one-screen station
A pair of hinges can hold one screen over a board. If you print a short run of cards or posters in one color, compare how you will locate each new sheet on that board and how much space the lifted screen needs. The hinge holds the frame. The stops locate the paper.
Count heads and work positions
A press has screen heads and work stations. Heads hold the screens for the colors you print. Stations support the garments or other pieces. If you frequently switch between several screens while working on one piece at a time, compare extra heads first. If you need to load multiple pieces in the same workflow, compare multiple stations and measure the room the platens need to swing. Check the exact manufacturer's mounting instructions before choosing a bench or stand.
Check your room to work
Mark the footprint on your work surface before ordering. Leave room for the frame to lift, the heads to turn and the garment or paper to slide into position. Compare those movements with nearby tools and storage.