the trials of not using photo-emulsion

Here we have the real pain of my choice not to use photo-emulsion. These are test prints of the screens I am planning to use for shirt printing.

All the noise in the print is a consequence of the screen not being properly sealed after my first application. I would need to do two (or probably more like three) applications (including all the arduous cutting in). This really cramps my style man!

I originally chose not to use photo-emulsion because the miracle that is photo-sensitive medium relies on Potassium Dichromate which is rated as extremely hazardous and cancer causing. Lovely.

... anyhow, I'm screwed. I need a simpler way to produce these screens. It does help to be able to print on the silkscreen with the laser printer. But this issue of bad sealing is making me crazy.

they eat, and eat, and eat

The worm composter is running well. The worms are eating their meals. I'm blending up their food for now to help get the process going more quickly. I put food scraps like broccoli stalks, collard green stems, and carrot tops in a jar. Then when I have enough, I dump all the scraps in a blender, add a bunch of water, and ta-da! -- instant worm food.

Here is the slop poured into the first empty tray (about 3:00pm).


I then cover it with a sheet of wet newspaper.
Here is the slop the next morning (about 7:00 am).

Here it is about 24 hours later (3:00 pm).

And finally about 48 hours later (3:00 pm).

As you can see, they've sucked it all down leaving only the fibrous material.