Screenprinting: What is Trapping and its Common Issues

Trapping in screenprinting refers to the slight overlap between adjacent colors to prevent gaps or white lines between them when the ink dries. It ensures a seamless transition and a clean, professional-looking print.

  • Too much trapping: This can result in colors bleeding into each other, creating a muddy or distorted appearance.
  • Not enough trapping: This can lead to visible gaps or white lines between colors, compromising the print's quality.
  • Trapping in the wrong direction: Trapping should always be done inward towards the center of the design, to prevent ink from spreading outside the desired area.
  • Mismatched trapping: The amount of trapping needed for different colors may vary due to factors like ink viscosity and opacity, so it's important to adjust trapping values accordingly.
  • Trapping interference with fine details: Trapping can affect the sharpness and precision of fine lines or text, so it should be used judiciously.
  1. Why is trapping necessary in screenprinting? - To prevent gaps or white lines between colors, ensuring a seamless transition.
  2. What is the optimal amount of trapping? - It depends on the inks and materials used, but typically around 0.005-0.010 inches.
  3. How do you determine the correct trapping direction? - Always inward towards the center of the design.
  4. How can you avoid trapping interference with fine details? - Use a smaller trapping value or consider creating multiple screens for fine linework.
  5. What is step back trapping? - A technique where trapping is applied to the entire design after printing, to enhance overall consistency.
  • Nazdar Digital ProTack® Screenprinting Ink
  • Wilflex Epic® Series Plastisol Ink
  • Matsui SC-4000 Screen Printing Machine
  • MHM Screen Printing Press
  • Vastex V-1000 Screen Printing Press

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