How do you make a silkscreen printing frame? what do you need and how do you do

Question:I want to make a silkscreen frame as cheap as possible without affecting the quality of the prints, So what do I do and what do I need? So I know how to make the frame, but what size should it be?

and then when I have it made, what material do I use for the silk? do I have to use silkscreen or is there a cheaper alternative that will still have the same effect. and how will I attach it to the frame? with staples duh, but how tight should it be and where should the staples be, at the side or the face of the frame. any tips would be welcome as well! thanks!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: I want to make a silkscreen frame as cheap as possible without affecting the quality of the prints, So what do I do and what do I need? So I know how to make the frame, but what size should it be?

and then when I have it made, what material do I use for the silk? do I have to use silkscreen or is there a cheaper alternative that will still have the same effect. and how will I attach it to the frame? with staples duh, but how tight should it be and where should the staples be, at the side or the face of the frame. any tips would be welcome as well! thanks!

The frame needs to be about 3 inches bigger in both directions than the largest image you want to print. If you are using wood, use 2 x2 kiln-dried fir--whatever it is it has to be flat on the table. Use a lap joint on the corners. Seal the wood with latex enamel paint or varithane.
It depends on what you are printing with and how you are making your stencils, what fabric you use. The information should come with the ink-- the fabric mesh.

The staples should be at a 45 degree angle to the frame and the fabric is the side that is flat on the table. Stretch the silk ( fabric) like you would a canvas-starting in the middle of one side...
Hammer the staples in if they protrude- an electric staple gun is handy.

http://www.ehow.com/how_10232_stretch-si...

The link below has one guy's methods
for making screens.

There are even kits available for screenprinting.

Staples will work, but there are better methods
using grooved frames and rope.