Tools & Materials
This supply list includes tools and materials that I use regularly to make silkscreens, stencils, and underglaze transfers. If an item is on this list, I use it regularly in my studio. Some of the items listed include affiliate links and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Printing and Stencils
My Cameo 4 Plus is my go to cutter these days. I am really hoping to try the NEW Cameo 5.
You may also find access to a craft cutter through your local library, makerspace, or even your neighbor! These are the two cutters I use regularly. I also have a Klick n Kut Zing that I love but use less frequently.
The basic Silhouette Studio software is always free. It is a powerful program and allows for both setting up files to cut and designing!
Silhouette Studio Business Edition (nice but not required)
The Business Edition is nice to have but is not required to cut stencils or vinyl for screens. This site usually has sales!
Glue Free Strech Screen Frames (12 X 16)
Glue Free Strech Screen Frames (16 X 20)
Glue Free Strech Screen Frames (9 X 12)
BONUS the Glue Free Stretch Frame comes with 3 yards of 110 mesh silkscreen and a squeegge sized to the frame. I use the 12 X 16 inch frame the most. I find the 9 X 12 one to be a bit small but it is great for when I am traveling and giving demos.
Silkscreens Pre-Stretched 10 X 14 Aluminum
I love these frames, they are light, thin, and clean easily. I do not use these for HTV screens but for temporary vinyl screens made with Oracal 651.
Silkscreens Pre-Stretched 12 X 18 Speedball Frames
Silkscreens Pre-Stretched 10 X 14 Speedball Frames
These are wooden frames which are not my favorite because I am rough on my equipment and the wood ones tend to warp when they get wet. Theoretically with these you can replace the mesh and re-cord the frame. I have not been happy with how tight I can get them when I re-stretch.
10X14 Speedball Screen with Hinged Base
Great for if you do not want to build the base yourself.
I have used both these vendors on multiple occasions.
Heat Press or an Old Iron
Teflon Sheets or Parchment Paper
Permanent Vinyl (Oracal 651)
I use Oracal 651 glossy vinyl on prestretched screen printing frames to make temporary screens for limited runs or one offs.
Transfer Tape (Greenstar medium tack is my favorite for almost everything)
Siser Easyweed Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) 5 Feet
Siser Easyweed Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) 15 Feet
HTVront Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)
Pony Roller (Creative Hobbies)
Gel Plate (12X12)
Gel Plate (5X7)
The red and yellow ribs are great for printing and applying transfers.
Screen Printing Squeegee Set 3 iece
Screen Printing Squeegee 6 inch Wide
You can use all kinds of things to print with including ribs, Bondo applicator, old credit cards, and plastic putty knives.
Pallet Knife Amazon
Pallet Knife Dick Blick
Rubber Spatula Catalys by Prinston #4 (the best!!!)
SanBao Transfer Paper or other thin Asian papers
This paper is just like that of commercially produced Underglaze Transfers. It is very thin, almost translucent and easily hydrates.
Asian Paper 11” X 60’ roll
This paper works well but is thicker than what you see used for commercial underglaze transfers.
Asian Paper 10 X 14
This paper works well but is thicker than what you see used for commercial underglaze transfers.
Newsprint 8.5 X 11 Sheets
Newsprint 12 X 18 Sheets
You can also use most newsprints, telephone book pages, and other lightweight papers such as tissue paper and old sewing patterns.
Weeding Tool (dental tool or Exacto knife will also work)
Duct Tape
Blue Tape or Packing Tape
Scissors
Glass to mix “ink” on if you use Mayco Screen Print Medium
For basic black I use Jet black Amaco velvet underglaze. Speedball underglazes are also great for printing as they tend to arrive thicker to start with and need less adjusting.
Mayco Screen Printing Medium or CMC Gum
NOTE: I suggest that you get this from another supplier. It only cost me $5 for the exact thing at the Queen City Clay booth at NCECA.
Continuous Spray Water Bottle (two small bottles)
Continuous Spray Water Bottle (one large bottle)
This type of water bottle is great but full disclosure I have had to replace mine every six months to a year. I keep switching suppliers and they all seem to fail fairly frequently. This one lasted the longest.
Cuerda Seca
Multi Pack Luer Lock Trailing Tips
BOOKS
Handmade Tile – Forest Lesch-Middelton
Graphic Clay - Jason Bige Burnett
Ceramics and Print – Paul Scott
Ceramic Transfer Printing – Dr. Kevin Petrie
Image Transfer on Clay - Paul Andrew Wandless
Studio Basics
Continuous Spray Water Bottle (two small bottles)
Continuous Spray Water Bottle (one large bottle)
This type of water bottle is great but full disclosure I have had to replace mine every year. I have very hard water so I likely need to flush them out with vinigar
OTHER Fun Things