***Important Update*** I just realized that the 200-mesh that comes on a roll says “not for use with Gocco Print Lamps”.  I somehow overlooked this fact. The print lamps over burn the image and therefore do now retain fine detail.  I apologize for this.  I will still be selling the unimaged 70-mesh screens in my shop.  However, I will have to image the 200-mesh on my Screenfax and mail the screen to you with your image already on it…Best, Amy

Okay, so I just got a Gocco machine and I LOVE it.  I’ve been printing using thermal imaged screens for many years and I finally got a Gocco machine and some Riso ink and I’m sooo hooked.  Figures, since RISO just announced they are discontinuing them.  As a result, places to get supplies are bit hard to find.  So, I decided to make my own masters.

Gather supplies:

- 3 Cereal boxes or Paperboard for each Master (trimmed and ready to go)

- Screen Template (cut out and ready to go)
or an old B6 Master with the screen cut out to use as a template

- Mesh – 70-Mesh for fabric or 200-Mesh for paper (which I am now selling in my shop)

- Scissors, craft knife, cutting mat

- Glue or Spray Adhesive

- Packing tape

- Copier Transparency or sturdy Cellophane cut to 5.5 by 7 inches (1 per master)

- Double-sided tape

Step 1

Trace your template. I cut my template from cardstock and even so had trouble with it curling.  So, I found it helpful to use repositionable spray adhesive on the back to hold it flat while I traced it.

Step 2

Cut traced templates out and glue together. I found it helpful to use scissors for the outside and a craft knife for the inner square.  You will need at least 3 paperboard cutouts for each  master. Glue them together using spray adhesive or glue.

Step 3

Test fit the masters and trim edges if necessary. Try putting the master into your gocco, if it’s too tight, trim the edges.  I found this very easy to do using a craft knife and ruler.  Also, I cut easily through the thickness by scoring w/ medium pressure and several passes with the craft knife.

Step 4

Trim corners. This will help your master slide into place more easily.

Step 5

Draw an arrow on your frame. Lay the frame down as you would put it into your screen and draw the arrow on it to remind you how to put the master into your gocco.

Step 6

Wrap with packing tape. Use packing tape to protect the cardboard and make it sturdier.  Also so you can use water-based inks and wash them off in the sink.  It also helps to when removing a used a screen.

Step 7

Tape Screen to Frame.

7a. Apply double-sided tape to the side that does not have an arrow on it.  Place next to the inner square of the frame.

7b. Lay screen mesh with shiny/smooth side up. * Tip – If you are using 70-mesh and it is curling up.  You can apply a tiny piece of double-sided tape to the cloth side corners to keep it flat.

7c. Carefully, position the tape side of the frame onto the shiny side of the mesh and press down.

Step 8

Place protective plastic on Master. Put a line of double sided tape on the tabbed edge of the mesh, on the side without the arrow. Stick the transparency or cellophane to the tape.

And Viola!  You have Gocco masters.