Which Screen Printing Mesh

We know starting your first Screen Printing Project can be a bit confusing. Below is our guide to help you navigate your way through the different mesh counts and their possible uses.

Screen print mesh count refers to the number of threads or openings per linear inch in a screen printing mesh. It plays a crucial role in determining the level of detail, ink deposit, and overall quality of a screen printing project. Different mesh counts are used for various applications, and it’s important to choose the right one based on your specific printing needs. Here’s an overview of the different mesh counts and their common uses:

43T Mesh (110 Mesh/cm):

• Coarse mesh suitable for printing heavy or opaque ink on dark fabrics.

• Ideal for printing bold designs on textiles, sweatshirts, or banners.

53T Mesh (137 Mesh/cm):

• Slightly finer than 43T, offering better detail and ink control.

• Suitable for printing on various textiles and medium-weight fabrics.

64T Mesh (160 Mesh/cm):

• A versatile mesh count for general textile and graphic printing.

• Provides good ink coverage and moderate detail for a wide range of applications.

72T Mesh (180 Mesh/cm):

• A finer mesh suitable for detailed graphics and fine lines.

• Ideal for printing on lighter fabrics and achieving a high level of detail.

77T Mesh (193 Mesh/cm):

• A higher mesh count for fine detail and intricate designs.

• Suitable for printing on textiles, paper, and other substrates that require fine printing resolution.

90T Mesh (230 Mesh/cm):

• A very fine mesh for high-resolution printing.

• Ideal for printing fine art, posters, and designs with small text or intricate details.

110T Mesh (280 Mesh/cm):

• Extremely fine mesh for the most detailed and high-quality prints.

• Often used in applications requiring exceptional precision, such as circuit boards or fine art reproductions.

120T Mesh (300 Mesh/cm):

• An even finer mesh count for ultra-high-resolution printing.

• Used in specialized applications where the finest details are essential.

When choosing a mesh count, consider the following factors:

Ink Type: Different ink types (water-based, plastisol, discharge, etc.) may require specific mesh counts for optimal performance. Consult your ink manufacturer’s recommendations.

Substrate: The material you’re printing on (e.g., textiles, paper, metal) can affect the choice of mesh count. Lighter fabrics typically require finer meshes for detail, while heavier materials may need coarser meshes for proper ink penetration.

Design Complexity: The level of detail in your design should influence your mesh choice. Finer mesh counts are better suited for intricate artwork, while coarser meshes are suitable for bold and simple designs.

Ink Thickness: Consider the desired ink deposit thickness. Finer meshes deposit less ink, which can be useful for achieving a soft hand feel on textiles.

Production Speed: Coarser meshes may allow for faster production due to increased ink flow, while finer meshes may require more time and care for setup.

Choosing the right mesh count is essential for achieving the desired print quality and ensuring that your screen printing project meets its intended purpose. Experimentation and testing with different mesh counts may be necessary to find the optimal choice for your specific needs.