What's best for slate - nomex felt or silicon pad

[Customprintwales]

I'm beginning to build up the slate sales at the moment which is good as they have great margins. I do have problems though getting the 'overflow' to print on at the edges so can get bare white patches.

I've done the searches and think that either a nomex felt pad or a silicon pad should help deal with this issue. Anyone have advice as to which is best for printing slates.

I've used thin silicon baking sheet before but have had issues. I think because the silicon does not allow the item to 'breathe' when being heated, if there is any residual damp or water then it gets trapped and interferes with the ink transfer. I understand that nomex felt is more breathable and allows any steam to escape.

I've found a nomex supplier in the UK, Rasmart do a Geo Knight Nomex Felt pad for £40, and Listawood do a 5mm thick silicon pad for £15

I'm happy to spend the extra on felt if it gives a better operation.

any advice based on experiences?

Thanks
Kevin

[DameEwa]

Hi Kevin
I have similar question - did you get any of the pads and would you recommend anything? I only just started with slates and they are not coming up very nicely. Thanks

[Vynmarius]

Hi I use a silicone pad from ebay I bought years ago it was about £15 works great, I think its 3-5 mm

[DameEwa]

Hi I use a silicone pad from ebay I bought years ago it was about £15 works great, I think its 3-5 mm

Thanks! I ordered 4mm silicon pad on eBay so hopefully that will work for me!