Best Screen Printing Mesh Types for Every Fabric

Screen printing is a popular way to create custom designs on t-shirts, posters, bags, and more. But did you know that the type of mesh you use in your screen can make a big difference in how your prints turn out? The right screen printing mesh type affects the sharpness, color, and quality of your final design. 

In this guide, you'll learn all about the different screen printing mesh types, how mesh count works, and how to choose the best mesh for your projects, whether you are a beginner or looking to up your printing game. 

Curious about the basics? Check out this simple guide to screen printing. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know!

What Are Screen Printing Mesh Types?

Screen printing mesh types refer to the different materials and structures used to make the screens that transfer ink onto your chosen surface. 

The mesh acts like a stencil, allowing ink to pass through in just the right spots to create your design. Mesh types differ by material, weave, and mesh count, and each one is suited for specific printing needs.

Why Does Mesh Type Matter?

The type of mesh you choose affects how much ink passes through, how detailed your print will be, and how long your screen will last. 

Picking the right screen printing mesh type helps your designs look their best and makes the printing process smoother and more fun.

Main Screen Printing Mesh Types Explained

There are four main types of mesh used in screen printing, each with its own special features and best uses.

Polyester Mesh

Polyester mesh is the most commonly used type for screen printing today. It is strong, flexible, and keeps its shape well, making it great for most projects. 

Polyester mesh is especially good for beginners because it is easy to work with and works with many kinds of ink.

Cotton Mesh

Cotton mesh was popular in the past but is less common now. It is softer and more stretchy than polyester, which can be helpful for certain artistic styles. 

However, cotton mesh is not as durable and does not hold its shape as well after many uses.

Nylon Mesh

Nylon mesh is very stretchy and tough. It is often used for printing on curved or uneven surfaces, like hats or bottles. 

While it is very strong, nylon can lose its shape over time, so it is better for prints that do not require super fine details.

Stainless Steel Mesh

Stainless steel mesh is used for highly detailed or technical prints, such as electronics or very fine artwork. 

It does not stretch at all and is extremely durable, but it is more expensive and less common for everyday projects.

Understanding Mesh Count in Screen Printing Mesh Types

Mesh count is one of the most important things to know when picking your screen printing mesh type.

What Is Mesh Count?

Mesh count is the number of threads in one inch of the mesh. For example, a 110 mesh count means there are 110 threads in every inch. The mesh count controls how much ink passes through the screen and how detailed your print can be.

Low Mesh Count vs. High Mesh Count

• Low mesh count (60-110): Has bigger holes, so more ink gets through. This is great for bold designs and thick inks, like white or metallic.
• High mesh count (156-305+): Has smaller holes, letting less ink through. This is perfect for fine lines, tiny details, and thinner inks.

How Mesh Count Affects Your Print

Lower mesh counts give you bolder, thicker prints, while higher mesh counts make your prints sharper and more detailed. Choosing the right mesh count is key to getting the results you want.

How to Choose the Right Screen Printing Mesh Type for Your Project

Picking the best mesh type can seem tricky, but it is easy if you know what to look for.

Consider Your Ink

• Thick inks: Go with a lower mesh count so the ink can get through the screen easily.
• Thin inks: Use a higher mesh count for smooth, even coverage.

Think About Your Design

• Bold, simple designs: Lower mesh counts work best.
• Fine lines or small text: Higher mesh counts are perfect for crisp details.

Match the Mesh to Your Fabric

• Rough or textured fabrics (like sweatshirts): Lower mesh counts help ink cover the surface.
• Smooth fabrics (like t-shirts): Higher mesh counts make prints look sharp.

Handy Mesh Count Chart

Do not forget to check out this guide on the different types of screen printing to discover more ways to use your mesh!

Screen Printing Mesh Weaves: Plain vs. Twill

Mesh weave describes how the threads are woven together in your screen.

Plain Weave

Plain weave is the most common type and is great for most printing projects. The threads go over and under each other in a simple pattern, making the mesh strong and even.

Twill Weave

Twill weave has a diagonal pattern, which allows ink to flow differently. It is sometimes used for special effects or certain types of ink, but most beginners start with plain weave.

Mesh Tension: Why It Matters for Screen Printing Mesh Types

Mesh tension is how tightly the mesh is stretched across the frame. It is an important detail that can change how your prints look.

High Tension

High-tension screens give you sharp, clean prints and help your screens last longer. They are a favorite for professional printers.

Low Tension

Low-tension screens can make prints look blurry or uneven. If your mesh feels loose, it might be time to re-stretch or replace your screen.

Curious about how screen printing works from start to finish? Check out this step-by-step guide!

Troubleshooting Common Screen Printing Mesh Problems

Even with the right screen printing mesh type, things can go wrong. Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

Ghosting

Ghosting is when a faint image is left on your screen after printing. This usually happens if ink stains the mesh. Cleaning your screens well after each use helps prevent this.

Clogging

Sometimes ink dries in the mesh holes, blocking your design. Using the right mesh count and cleaning your screens quickly will help stop clogs.

Tearing

Mesh can tear if it is old or stretched too tightly. Always check your screens before printing and handle them gently to make them last.

Conclusion

Choosing the right screen printing mesh type is all about matching your mesh to your ink, design, and fabric. Start simple, experiment with different mesh counts, and see what works best for your projects. 

For more helpful guides and tips about screen printing, be sure to visit Caydo’s blog. If you are ready to get started, shop screen printing products and supplies from Caydo to find everything you need for your next creative adventure.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Screen Printing Mesh Types

What type of mesh is used in screen printing?

Most screen printing uses polyester mesh because it is strong, flexible, and keeps its shape well. Some projects may use nylon, cotton, or stainless steel mesh, depending on the surface and detail required. The choice of mesh depends on your project and the effect you want to achieve.

What is the best screen mesh?

The best screen mesh depends on what you are printing. For most t-shirt designs, a polyester mesh with a mesh count between 110 and 156 works well. If you need very fine details, a higher mesh count is a better choice.

Which mesh counts for screen printing?

Screen printing mesh counts usually range from 60 to 305 threads per inch. Lower mesh counts are great for bold designs and thick inks, while higher mesh counts are perfect for detailed prints and thin inks. Picking the right mesh count helps your print look its best.

What is the difference between 100 mesh and 200 mesh?

A 100 mesh screen has larger holes, so it lets more ink through and is good for bold designs and thicker inks. A 200 mesh screen has much smaller holes, which is great for fine details and thinner inks. The choice between them depends on how much detail and ink coverage you want for your design.

Related articles:

Screen Printing on Paper: Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

How to Do Screen Printing on Fabric: 7 Simple Steps