Textured Mascots

• Re-create textures such as fur or raised surfaces to duplicate the team's mascot. Screen printing enthusiasts can create a textured overlay screen by tautly stretching sheer cloth over the screen printing frame. Position textured paper as an underlay for the screen frame as another option. This process creates different textures as the ink passes through the mesh screen and through the medium. Lift the screen after every ink pass and reposition the textured layer. For example, if your team mascot has visible animal fur, make fine line cutouts with a crafting knife on film sheets. After you have passed the first ink layer with the squeegee, position the film sheet underneath the frame for the second pass. Remove the film. Dip a sponge in the ink and press gently into the screen to add color, depth and dimension. Always remember that duplicating exact replicas of handmade textured screens is usually not possible. Jot down notes of specific underlay mediums, including positioning and ink passes, to follow for the next team T-shirt or jersey.
  
  

Scripts

• Create an original script or use existing scripts such as "Bickley," "Brush," "Lucida," "French" or "Vladmir" to display the team name across the jersey's chest or sleeves. Use alphabet stencils as the screen underlay to transfer the screen name or draw the original script design on acetate film sheets. Remember to cut out the letters, allowing the ink to pass through onto the jersey. Most team scripts include a decorative underline accenting the font. If you choose to design original font letter type, include any repetitive lines. For example, if each letter has rounded edges, repeat the shape for all subsequent letters.
  
  

Player Numbers

• Include the team logo or sport insignia, such as a basketball, baseball or football, with the transfer graphic. If you are screen printing individual T-shirts, jerseys or pullovers, customize the tops with each player's number, incorporating the team colors. Most number screens have a border or rim in a complementary accent color or solid white to highlight the design on the garment. As another option, incorporate the sport insignia on the sleeves or front chest.
  
  

Player Names

• Adding trims to the screen-printed jerseys such as contrast taping or complementary mesh inserts add dimension to the garment. Enlarge block font letter type, such as "Rockwell" or "Impact," and spread the player name across the jersey's back in a horizontal or arched formation. If you are working with a basic 8-by-10-inch silk-screen frame, it is important to lift and reposition the screen evenly to avoid misaligned letters and unwanted color transfers. As another option, incorporate a sport heat-seal insignia, such as an embroidered patch or chenille appliqué.