If you're building a student-run screen printing shop, choosing the right tools is critical. From space-saving equipment to chemical safety, school programs face unique challenges. In this guide, we’ll highlight the five best screen printing products for schools. These tools simplify setup, improve safety, and support hands-on learning.
Whether you're working in a converted classroom or a dedicated lab, these products will help students create confidently while keeping instructors in control.
1. Canon PIXMA iX6820 Film Output Package
Film output issues are one of the most common pain points in school print shops. Many teachers use a basic office printer and skip RIP software, which leads to film positives that are too light for proper exposure.
This Canon PIXMA iX6820 package includes Filmmaker v10 software and is great for producing opaque, accurate films at 13x19 size. It eliminates guesswork and sets students up for screen exposure success.
Why Schools Love It:
- Consistent, dark ink output
- Includes RIP software
- Ready to print from day one
2. Baselayr X2536 LED Exposure Unit
Vacuum-style exposure units often break under heavy use in school settings. The Baselayr X2536 uses an LED compression system, which means no vacuum rubber and no delicate seals to maintain. It’s built tough for classrooms and fits 25x36 screens.
With consistent exposure and easy operation, this unit is a smart investment for schools that want professional-quality results without the maintenance headaches.
Why It Works for Schools:
- LED light source with no bulb replacements
- No vacuum parts to break or replace
- Reliable exposure performance for student use
RELATED: Why Your Shop Needs an LED Exposure Unit
3. Direct to Film (DTF) Transfer Equipment
For schools with no darkroom or plumbing, Direct to Film is a powerful option. Students create full-color designs digitally, print them to film, and use a heat press to apply them to garments. This workflow eliminates screens, mesh stencils, and reclaim chemicals entirely, allowing students to design and create with quicker results and teachers to educate apparel decoration principles.Â
DTF is ideal for quick class projects, short runs, or events where speed and simplicity matter.
Why DTF Is Classroom-Friendly:
- No darkroom or water hookup required
- Produces vibrant, full-color prints
- Reduces mess and setup time
4. xTool Laser Engraving Systems
If your program includes STEM, entrepreneurship, or product design, xTool laser equipment opens up new possibilities. Students can engrave promotional items, cut stencils, and build mixed-media products alongside apparel printing.
Laser tools support creative exploration and prepare students for real-world production environments beyond traditional t-shirts.
Why Teachers Recommend It:
- Cross-compatible with art, CTE, and STEM courses
- Hands-on digital fabrication experience
- Portable and easy to operate
5. In-Person Screen Printing Training
Many instructors are handed a print program with little or no background in screen printing. That’s why Ryonet’s Screen Print Experience is one of the most valuable investments a school can make. These classes walk educators through every step of the process, from film output to curing finished prints.
Educators who attend these trainings feel more confident, make fewer mistakes, and pass on a stronger skill set to their students.
Why It Matters:
- Step-by-step screen printing education
- Safe, repeatable workflows for classrooms
- Print-ready skills you can apply immediately
Build a Complete Classroom Shop
For schools that want an all-in-one solution, we recommend starting with the Riley Hopkins 250 Complete Screen Printing Kit. It’s mid-size, affordable, and easy to customize for your classroom setup. Pair it with a tabletop washout booth, film output system, and conveyor dryer to complete the lab setup.
RELATED: Top 3 Screen Printing Presses for Beginners (Tested & Reviewed)
For larger schools or career programs, the Riley Hopkins 360 Complete Screen Printing Kit brings pro-level performance while remaining classroom compatible.
Set Your Students Up for Success
Most challenges in school print labs aren’t about technical problems. They’re about adapting commercial processes to a classroom environment. Choosing the right screen printing products for schools makes all the difference.
From film output and exposure to digital transfers and safe reclaim solutions, these five tools help you create a system that works for your space, schedule, and students.
Need help designing your classroom lab? Reach out. Ryonet is here to help you teach confidently and #PowerThePrint.