Screen printing and embroidery are popular methods of customizing garments and promotional items. In this article, we will explore the world of screen printing and embroidery with Jason, the owner of Black Market Ink, a local screen printing business in Fond du Lac. Jason shares his journey into the world of screen printing, his clientele, and the process behind his craft.
Getting Started in Screen Printing
Jason has been a local graphic designer for nearly 30 years, starting his career in high school. About five years ago, he stumbled upon a YouTube video about screen printing and instantly fell in love with the craft. He ordered a cheap Chinese screen printing press off of Amazon and set up a shop in his basement. Today, he runs a successful screen printing business, catering to various clients in the Fond du Lac area.
Working with Local Businesses and Bands
One of the perks of Jason’s business is the opportunity to work with local business owners and bands. Having been a bartender for many years, Jason built connections with bartenders, bar owners, and bands, which he has now leveraged into a client base. He works with local bars and restaurants, such as Craft City, The Hive, O’Davies, and Slim and Chubby’s, creating custom designs for their merchandise. He also collaborates with bands like Armchair Boogie, Wonderfunk, and Brash Menagerie, designing unique and eye-catching merchandise for their fans.
The Creative Process
As a graphic designer, Jason’s passion lies in being creative. He enjoys the process of taking a design from the computer screen and physically printing it onto a garment. He finds it rewarding to see someone wearing his creations without even knowing where it came from. T-shirts and other apparel items serve as powerful advertising tools for companies, and Jason takes pride in helping businesses promote their brand through his designs.
The Screen Printing Process
Jason’s screen printing setup in his basement is equipped with all the necessary tools and equipment. He starts by exposing an image onto a screen using a transparency film and a light table. Once the screen is prepared, he uses a washout booth to clean it and remove any excess emulsion. The exposed screen is then ready for printing.
Using a screen printing press, Jason applies ink onto the garment, creating the desired design. To ensure durability, he uses a flash dryer to heat press the printed design, setting it in place. This process ensures that the design won’t crack, fade, or wash out over time. Jason takes pride in the quality of his work and the attention to detail he puts into every print.
Favorite Designs and Creative Freedom
When asked about his favorite designs, Jason mentions that he enjoys working with clients who give him creative freedom. Slim and Chubby’s and Brick House are two examples of businesses that allow him to get “weird and crazy” with his designs. Instead of the typical logo-centric bar merchandise, Jason creates unique and imaginative designs that stand out from the crowd. He takes pride in offering something different and unexpected, like an alien-themed design for a bar. His customers appreciate the creativity and often purchase these unique designs.
Expanding Business and Availability
Jason recently moved to a new house and had to put some of his customers on hold while he set up his new workspace. However, he is now fully operational and ready to take on new projects. If you have a design idea or need custom merchandise, you can reach out to Jason through his website, Facebook, or Instagram. He is open for business and excited to bring your ideas to life.
Conclusion
Screen printing is not just a method of customization; it is an art form that allows graphic designers like Jason to express their creativity. Jason’s journey into screen printing started with a YouTube video and has led him to establish a successful business in Fond du Lac. Through his work, he collaborates with local businesses and bands, creating unique and eye-catching designs that serve as powerful advertising tools. If you’re looking for custom screen printing, Jason of Black Bark and Ink is the person to contact.
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