News:


Screen Printing Tip of the Week: Choosing Mesh — Part 2

August 14, 2013

There are trade-offs when it comes to choosing between thicker and thinner mesh threads, and between dyed and un-dyed mesh. 

Thick vs. thin thread thickness

Typically, mesh with a thinner thread will cost more and may be more difficult to find. This is because thinner thread results in larger mesh openings, which greatly improve the printability of any given ink, as more of it can flow through the opening. This also allows for more detailed printing. However, the thinner thread also may mean that the mesh is less durable and can easily tear.  

Thicker thread generally is more durable, but results in smaller mesh openings and less detailed printing. However, there are some tricks you can employ to still get good results with thicker thread. For example, stretching the mesh to its optimum tension can greatly widen the mesh opening, thus improving the ink flow. Good tension also benefits mesh with thinner thread.

A good compromise is to choose a mid-range thread thickness, offering both mesh durability and opening.




Un-dyed vs. dyed mesh 
Un-dyed mesh, also called white mesh, actually is clear. Typically, it has larger mesh openings and allows more light to come through, resulting in shorter exposure times. Larger mesh openings also transfer less detail from designs. 

Dyed mesh typically has smaller mesh openings, allowing for a more detailed design transfer. The dye in the mesh helps stop the light from bouncing through the mesh, thus requiring a longer exposure time. New printers may find that the longer exposure time required with dyed mesh allows them to control the exposure process more easily.



Kieth Stevens is the Western regional sales manager for International Coatings. He has been teaching screen printing for more than 10 years and is a regular contributor to International Coatings’ blogs. For more information, visit iccink.com and read the company’s blog at internationalcoatingsblog.com.


More News