Direct Stencil Making Method
Method: In the direct method, the photosensitive film base (with the emulsion side facing up) is first placed flat on the work surface. The stretched screen frame is placed flat over the film base. Photosensitive emulsion is then poured into the frame and applied under pressure using a soft squeegee. After thorough drying, the plastic film base is peeled off; the screen, now bearing the adhered photosensitive emulsion, is ready for exposure. Finally, the screen is developed and dried to complete the stencil.
Process Flow: Stretched screen → Degreasing → Drying → Peeling off film base → Exposure → Developing → Drying → Retouching → Blocking out (sealing)
Indirect Stencil Making Method
Method: In the indirect method, the indirect film is first exposed, hardened using 1.2% H₂O₂, developed in warm water, and dried to create a peelable image stencil. During stencil making, the emulsion side of the image stencil is pressed firmly against the stretched screen; pressure ensures the emulsion adheres tightly to the moistened mesh. The film base is then peeled off, and the screen is air-dried to complete the stencil.
Process Flow:
Stretched screen → Degreasing → Drying
Indirect film → Exposure → Hardening → Developing
1 & 2 → Lamination → Air drying → Retouching → Blocking out (sealing)
Direct-Indirect Hybrid Stencil Making Method
First, the photosensitive film is adhered to the stretched screen frame using water, alcohol, or photosensitive emulsion. After hot-air drying, the film base is peeled off. The screen is then exposed and developed to complete the stencil.