Abstract: A composite stencil screen assembly including a uniformly-prestressed resilient backing screen attached to a frame and a metallic wire mesh stencil screen attached to the backing screen. A predetermined portion of the backing screen is removed after the stencil screen is attached thereto in order to permit the pre-stressing force in the backing screen to uniformly pre-stress the stencil screen in all directions to impart a tight, wrinkle-free, high-quality printing surface to the stencil screen. In a preferred embodiment, the assembly is retensioned subsequent to removal of the predetermined portion of the backing screen. The composite construction is uncomplicated in design, resists metal fatigue of the wire mesh stencil screen, is effectively used in non-thermally dependent and thermally dependent printing operations, and has a long service life.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for printing a design with a stencil screen including a resilient membrane formed by reversely-bent portions in the screen between a desired pattern defined by a paint-pervious opening in the screen and edge portions of the screen. The reversely-bent portions of the screen are filled with an elastomeric material and extend beyond the bent portions of the screen. A coating of an elastomeric material may be applied to the outside areas of the reversely-bent portions of the screen and adhered to the elastomeric material in the pocket of the screen by permeating the screen openings.

Abstract: System for applying decorative imprints to the surfaces of plastic workpieces by means of a heated silk-screen technique wherein the screen is initially coated with a silicone release agent which prevents sticking of the heated screen to the plastic workpiece and facilitates its easy removal from the workpiece while at the same time insuring good deposition of the printed material.