How To Remove Screen Print From Cotton Shirt

Though screen printing adds intricate elements to a patternless shirt, there’s no denying their unpleasant look once they become old. Another problem with the prints is that they may become untidy if mistakenly done. So, if you think it’s time to remove your messy screen print design, here’s your comprehensive guide.

Thinking that removing screen prints involves an intimidating process is a sheer myth. Just as how straightforward screen printing a shirt seems, removing it is also simple. For this reason, you need to follow some simple steps.

You can use nail polish remover, plastisol remover, spot removal guns, or even a plastic bag with iron. Herein, this post shall elucidate the basic steps to remove screen prints from your cotton shirt. To learn more, keep reading on.

How To Remove Screen Print From Cotton Shirt?

When it comes to removing screen prints from your cotton shirt, you need to consider some safety measures. Not only does it ensure complete protection from hazards, but it also works seamlessly. So, to begin with, here are some tips, after which you shall learn the all-encompassing steps.

• First things first, you should always ensure that you work in the well-ventilated palace, specifically when you use harsh chemicals (spot removers).
• While using the store-bought items, always ensure that you follow the manual.
• Use protective clothing such as gloves or face masks while working with the chemical-based products (it ensures complete skin protection while working)
• Ensure that you have dry hands when using the electrical appliances
• Unplug the plugs from sockets and turn the switches off
• Keep spot removers and acetone away from pets and kids at all times

Removing screen prints is also possible through chemical reactions. But no wonder they are harsh, and they need protective clothing like face masks and gloves. And cotton is one such fabric that may seem difficult for removing screen prints.

However, with some simple life hacks, you would be able to remove them entirely. Basically, there are multiple methods that you can use to remove the print from your cotton shirt.

Each method has a different material to use. Although they are absolutely safe, it’s better to consider working on them minutely. So, let’s learn the methods, one by one. Without further delay, let’s check them.

How to Remove Screen Print From Cotton Shirt with Nail Polish Remover?

Who would ever deny the fact that nail polish remover can take out prints from shirts? Of course, you must have seen the videos on your social media handles! Didn’t you see how the professionals use it accurately for removing other stains? Yes, that might also excite you to learn the reason, isn’t it?

The fact is nail polish removers contain a compound called acetone. This compound acts on screen prints. And if you choose to work with this method, start with a patch test, as some fabrics are too sensitive to the removers. Let’s learn the steps now:

Step 1: Washing The Shirt With Cold Water

Especially for new prints, you must always wash the shirt with cold water. As a matter of fact, the new prints wash off the new ink and stop it from solidifying. Thus, using warm water may let the ink stick on the shirt even more.

Step 2: Drying The Shirt

With a dryer, you can dry the shirt in high heat. It makes some of the ink parts loosen up. You can peel these parts by using your hands.

Step 3: Applying Nail Polish Remover

Now, you can apply a good amount of your nail polish remover to the cotton ball. After this, dab it gently. Use a little force on the shirt’s remaining ink.

One Quick Note:

Rubbing may cause the shirt to mutilate. So, peel off the ink by using the fingernails. This way, you are going to gently remove the print from your cotton shirt.

Step 4: Rewashing the Cloth

Before wearing it or printing any other design on it, it’s compulsory to wash the shirt once again. As soon as you dry it using a dryer, you can peel off the smallest portion of the ink remaining on the shirt.

And there you have it! You can now wear a print-free shirt now. However, if you see some prints are still there on the shirt, you can repeat the process from Step 3 until and unless you meet perfection.

How to Remove Screen Print From Cotton Shirt with Plastisol Remover?

While using this particular method, you must ensure that you have your protective clothing worn already. Gloves and face masks are the prerequisites! Also, remember to work in a well-ventilated location.

So, without further delay, let’s now present the steps on how to remove screen print by the plastisol ink remover. Surprisingly, you can also rub alcohol in this method.

Step 1: Apply the Remover

In the printed area, you need to apply the remover on the shirt. After doing so, you can leave it for 30 minutes. If the print is not that stubborn, you may apply the remover on a cotton cloth. Use it and dab it on the printed area.

Step 2: A Soft Brush

Now is the time when you require a small brush! After taking it, brush off the print gently. For this, you need to use good strokes to make the cloth loosen its print.

Step 3: Wiping off The Plastisol Remover

The next thing that you need to do is to wipe off that plastisol remover. Use a soft cloth for the purpose. After this, you need to wash it with cold water. A gentle detergent can be used, provided you follow the instructions properly.

Step 4: Air-Drying The Cloth

In the fourth step, you need a dryer. Air-dry the cloth with it. A majority of screen prints get off like this. However, if you see some pesky prints on the shirt, all you need to do is peel off the remaining prints with your fingernails.

One Quick Note:

You need to repeat this process in case the print does not get removed completely. However, repeatedly using the remover may damage your clothes.

How to Remove Screen Print From Cotton Shirt Via Spot Removal Gun?

A wide range of spot removal guns is there. And these are available from varying brands from varying manufacturers. They are easy to use, and they don’t need a difficult operation. So, let’s learn how to proceed:

Step 1: Loading The Gun With Spray

So, the first thing that you need to consider is to load the gun with the spray out juice. That makes it evident that you need a spot remover.

Step 2: Spraying The Liquid

The next thing that you need to do is to spray the liquid on the print. You must be careful not to spray it on the cotton shirt. Otherwise, it may leave a stain.

Step 3: A Soft Rag & Water

Now is the time when you need a soft rag and water to wipe the stain off. Additionally, you need to ensure that you don’t leave chemical residue on your cotton shirt. You may wash your shirt immediately to make sure that no spot remover is left.

Step 4: Drying the Shirt

The last thing that you need to ensure is to dry the shirt. For this, you must choose a well-ventilated location to work accordingly.

How to Remove Screen Print From Cotton Shirt Using A Plastic Bag And Iron?

This is one such method where you don’t need an extra ingredient. All the essentials are there at home. In addition, it’s the most cost-effective and easiest method to remove the screen prints from your cotton shirt.

But make sure that you don’t use the steam iron. To begin with, use waxed paper! Or even a paper bag would serve the purpose. Let’s learn the complete method.

Step 1: Washing & Drying Your Cotton Shirt

First things first, you need to wash & dry the cotton shirt with cold water. It’s the same as done in the earlier methods.

Step 2: Using An Ironing Board

So, the next thing that you need to do is to place your dry shirt on the ironing board. You can place it on a flat surface, too. Upon then, place the paper bag on your cotton shirt where you see the print. The glossy portion of the bag must be on your cotton shirt directly.

Step 3: Ironing On Medium Heat

Lastly, you require ironing over a paper bag on medium heat. The heat helps transfer the screen print from your shirt to that paper bag.

You may scrape off the remaining with fingernails or a plastic knife. Repeat until the screen print is entirely gone.

Can Acetone Remove Silk Screen?

Yes, it can quickly and easily remove silkscreen paint from the glass item. All you need to do is to apply acetone to the towel & scrub the paint until it gets completely removed.

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Jessica

I'm Jessica Flores, a professional fashion designer and an expert seamstress.

Crafting has always been a deep-seated passion of mine, one that has flourished and evolved over the years.

I've dedicated considerable time to both studying and practicing in the realm of fashion and sewing, amassing a wealth of experience and skills.

It brings me great joy to share these insights and experiences with you all, hoping to inspire and foster a similar passion for the art of sewing.

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