
Mesh size is determined by how many threads there are
per square inch. A higher mesh count means the holes in the screen are finer
and will allow finer detail. The higher mesh count also reduces the amount of
ink that can be deposited through the screen. The low mesh count means that the
holes are larger and allows more ink to flow through.
For example, if you want a design that is highly
detailed, a high mesh screen would be needed. The low mesh screen would deposit
too much ink, which is not ideal. If you wanted to use a glitter ink, then the
low mesh screen would be best. The low mesh screen would allow for the
particles in the glitter ink to flow through, which would not be possible with
a high mesh screen.
Although choosing the perfect mesh screen is not an
exact science, the following is an outline for the best mesh count to pick for
different types of printing.
Guidelines
for General Screen Printing Jobs
1.
40-61
mesh count: This mesh count is best for glitter,
shimmer and high-density inks. The shimmer and glitter inks have particles in
them, which means they cannot go through the finer mesh screens.
2. 86
mesh count: This count allows for heavy ink deposit
and is typically used for bold copying on dark fabrics.
3.
110
mesh count: The most commonly used mesh count in the
industry. This count is best for text and spot colors.
4.
156
mesh count: This mesh count is most commonly used for
regular detail and has moderate ink deposit.
5.
200-240
mesh count: This mesh is fine and is good for high detail prints and is
also good to print onto white or light-colored products.
6.
305
and higher mesh counts: These mesh counts are very fine and are
good for extremely detailed prints.
Selecting the correct mesh count for your screen printing
job is important. If the correct count is not chosen, then there is potential
for your print job to not turnout to the proper look you envisioned. Below is a
video that will give more information about selecting the correct mesh count
for your screen printing job.