Just a little project …

I've decided to take up screen printing.

Why?

First, because as a graphic designer I've seen the resurgence of screen-printed tee-shirts courtesy of Abercrombie and Fitch and Old Navy and I've thought: "I can do better."

Second, I really want to start making my own Harry Potter-inspired tees. Clothing dark and evocative enough to match the tenor of the most recent book and movie. My first project? Severus Snape a la Che Guevarra. (Meckhead, you can stop laughing now. You're gonna be jealous when you see it.)

Third, because well-designed tees rarely fit well. And good-fitting shirts are rarely well-designed.

Fourth, because I can't get my tattoo until my arms are more muscular, so I have to do something with the logo in the meantime.

Lest I thought this would be an inexpensive or simple hobby, here's my ever-growing list of supplies:

monotone art - check!

strectched screen and frame - check!

squeegee - check!

thumbtacks - check!

chemicals - check!

monotone art photocopied onto transparency - Kinko's

cardboard box - Container Store

black paper - Dick Blick Art Materials

photoflood bulb - Dick Blick Art Materials

clamp lamp - Home Depot

2 clamps - Home Depot

disposable pie tin - Dominick’s

spray bottle - Container Store

cut-to-fit glass - Home Depot

electrician's tape - Home Depot

cardboard - Container Store

tee shirt (pink or soft green) - Old Navy

fabric screen printing ink (black) - Dick Blick Art Materials


I took Monday off work as a personal day because I know by the time I've assembled all my supplies I'll want a whole day to work.

Once I've mastered art and words I'll be open to suggestions and — maybe — orders. I know Dave already has some great pithy sayings.