How to Choose the Right Screen Mesh Size | by ScreenPrinting.com

• Aluminum Frames
• Custom Aluminum Frames
• Mesh
• Plastisol Inks
• Emulsions

FRAME TYPES

ScreenPrinting.com provides high-quality aluminum pre-stretched screens in various sizes and mesh counts. All aluminum frames use the highest grade aluminum and are cut and welded in the USA. The frames are sandblasted to ensure proper bonding and tension for thousands of prints. Screens are stretched pneumatically to industry standards using high-grade monofilament poly mesh and held using cyanoacrylate glue.

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ALUMINUM FRAMES

Aluminum screen printing frames are durable and have increased longevity. Unlike wood frames, aluminum frames will not warp when exposed to water. This ensures a flat frame for thousands of prints.

Aluminum frames can also be re-stretched many times. The mesh and glue are simply removed from the frame using a professional tool that won’t damage the frame. Once cleaned, the frames can be re-stretched. Aluminum frames are also lightweight, making shipping less expensive and saving money in the long run.

MESH SIZE

Different mesh sizes are used for different applications in the screen printing process. Mesh size is measured by how many threads of mesh cross per square inch. A 110 mesh, for example, has 110 threads crossing per square inch. The higher the mesh count, the finer the threads and holes are in the screen.

The mesh count screen printers use changes depending on the level of detail in a design and the thickness of ink used. Images with high detail should use screens with a higher mesh count. Those fine dots of detail will fall through the holes in low mesh count screens.

Thinner ink, like water-based ink, should also be printed through a high mesh count. Thin ink will flood through larger holes in low mesh count screens, blurring the image. Thicker inks, like white plastisol ink, should be printed through low mesh counts. A thick ink printed through a high mesh count will take much more effort to create a good ink layer on the shirt. 

Got more questions about mesh count? Here’s a quick guide:

MOST VERSATILE MESH COUNTS

The most standard mesh counts in screen printing are 110 and 156. 110 mesh lays a fairly thick layer of ink down. It’s great for printing block letters and larger spot-color designs. 156 mesh also lays down a thick layer of ink but offers higher detail. Because of this, 156 mesh is the go-to screen for many printers.

LOW MESH COUNTS

Low mesh counts like 38-86 are typically used for glitter or shimmer inks. These types of inks have large flakes that will not pass through typical mesh sizes easily. Shimmer plastisol inks, like FN-INK Gold, can pass through the higher mesh sizes in this range — around 86 — but glitter inks require low mesh counts, as they have larger flakes. 

Pro Tip: Adding a Curable Reducer to inks with large particles can help them pass through screens more effectively. Adding Curable Reducer to FN-INK Gold, for instance, makes it able to print through mesh counts as high as 230.

HIGH MESH COUNTS

High mesh counts are used for designs with fine detail or with thinner screen printing inks. Mesh sizes like 230 can hold large halftone dots. Graphic and solvent-based screen printing inks should also be printed with mesh counts of around 230. Printing through a high mesh count creates a softer hand feel since less ink is passing through the screen. The downside? The print may look distressed because of the thin ink deposit. For vibrant prints, use lower mesh counts. 

Printing four-color process? Choose a higher mesh count. 305 mesh count is great for getting extremely high detail. Printing methods like four color process and simulated process prints work great with high mesh counts.

Higher meshes such as 355, 380, and 400 are used mainly for graphic printing with UV inks, UV inks are extremely thin, and many times are used for printing on signs or banners. Using a higher mesh also allows the automatic printers used in UV printing to regulate the amount of ink passing through the screen.

For more on choosing the proper mesh count, check out this blog.

EXPOSURE NOTES

Are you ready to take on a new sewing adventure? Buckle up buttercup! We’re diving headfirst into the sea of! This lightweight, breathable material is making waves in the sewing community, and today, I’ll be your trusty mesh maverick guiding you through the ins and outs of sewing with mesh fabric.

Now, you might be wondering, why mesh fabric? It adds a touch of sporty elegance to garments, creates ethereal overlays, and even works wonders in your bag-making and home decor items. But, and this is a big but, sewing with mesh fabric. can be a bit intimidating, but with a little technical guidance, mesh is actually very easy to sew, and can be applied to many different projects!

Mesh fabric is a lightweight and open-weave textile that is characterized by its distinctive mesh or net-like structure. It is typically made from synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, or spandex, which give it durability, flexibility, and breathability. The open construction of mesh fabric allows air to flow through, making it ideal for creating garments and accessories that require ventilation or a see-through effect.

Mesh fabric comes in various weights and densities, ranging from fine and delicate to more sturdy and structured. Its unique properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications, offering a combination of functionality and style in sewing projects.

Alrighty, let’s unravel the mystery of this fabric! Picture this: mesh fabric is like the cool kid at the sewing party. It’s lightweight, open-weave goodness that’s all about that meshy, net-like structure. Made from synthetic fibres like polyester, nylon, or spandex, it’s got the durability, flexibility, and breathability you need for your sewing adventures.

Let’s talk cutting! You’ve got a couple of options here, but we have a top recommendation for precision: reach for a trusty rotary cutterand a self-healing mat. Trust me, it’ll make your life so much easier! 

This method will help you see the holes in the mesh more clearly, making it easier to follow your cutting lines accurately. And remember, slow and steady wins the race. Take your time, breathe, and let your scissors glide smoothly through the mesh.

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Keep those selvedges intact if you can. They provide a bit of stability and prevent the mesh from unravelling. If you need to remove them, make sure to finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or a serger to keep everything nice and tidy.

8. Consider alternative methods to pins: If pinning proves to be challenging, consider using alternative methods to hold the fabric together, such as quilting clips, fabric weights, or basting stitches. These options can be gentler on the fabric while still keeping it secure during the sewing process.

9. Choosing a machine foot to sew with mesh: Consider using a walking foot, which helps guide the mesh smoothly through the machine. To further aid the feeding process, you can place a tear-away stabilizer, tissue paper, or plain paper under the seam. These temporary supports can be easily removed afterwards, ensuring the mesh doesn’t get trapped or stuck on the feed dogs. Alternatively, you can try using a wide straight stitch foot or a roller foot, which can also assist in feeding the mesh fabric evenly.

10. Loosen the pressure:Now, let’s talk about presser foot pressure. If your machine allows it, loosening the presser foot pressure can work wonders when sewing mesh fabric. This adjustment prevents unwanted stretching and distortion, allowing you to maintain the fabric’s shape and integrity. Loosening the pressure will also minimize fabric slippage, especially when dealing with double layers of mesh.

11. Secure edges with tape: If you’re struggling to keep the edges of your mesh fabric aligned while cutting, use masking tape or clear tape to temporarily secure them. This will help maintain accuracy.

12. Sewing Speed:Slow and steady wins the race: Mesh fabric can be delicate and prone to shifting or stretching. To maintain control and precision, it’s generally recommended to sew at a slower speed. This allows you to navigate the fabric smoothly, ensuring accurate stitches without putting unnecessary strain on the mesh and avoid gathers and puckers.

13. Stitch Length:When it comes to stitch length for sewing with mesh fabric, using a shorter straight stitch or a narrow zigzag stitch is recommended to achieve the best results. Opt for a stitch length of around 1.75-2.5mm to ensure secure and balanced stitches. Remember to test your chosen stitch length on a scrap piece of mesh fabric before starting your actual project. This will help you gauge the stitch’s appearance and its compatibility with the fabric’s specific characteristics.

14. Fabric Position: When sewing mesh fabric in combination with other fabrics, it’s essential to pay attention to the position of the mesh layer. To prevent the mesh from slipping or getting trapped, always place the mesh layer on top, closest to the needle. Keeping the mesh layer on the top, it allows the machine’s feed dogs to have better contact with the fabric, ensuring smooth and even feeding. This positioning also helps to minimize the chances of the mesh fabric getting caught or tangled in the machine’s mechanisms. By keeping the mesh layer on top, you’ll have better control over the fabric, minimize potential issues, and achieve beautiful and professional results in your sewing projects.

15. Basting: Instead of traditional basting, you might consider alternative methods to secure the fabric layers temporarily. One option is to use temporary glue or double-sided sticky tape. These adhesive options allow you to secure the mesh fabric to other layers without the need for excessive stitching.

Zigzag stitch:Utilize a narrow zigzag stitch along the raw edges of the fabric. This stitch helps to prevent fraying and provides a flexible seam that accommodates the stretchiness of the mesh.

Overlock or serged edge:If you have access to an overlock machine or serger, using it to finish the raw edges of the mesh fabric is an excellent choice. This creates a professional-looking and secure seam that prevents fraying. Treat mesh like you would a very delicate or lightweight fabric when finishing, due to the holes.

French seams:While a bit more time-consuming, French seams work well with lightweight mesh fabrics. They encase the raw edges within the seam, ensuring a neat and clean finish on both the inside and outside of the garment.

Bias tape binding: Another option is to use bias tape to enclose the raw edges of the mesh fabric This technique adds a pop of colour and creates a clean and finished look.

When it comes to edge finishes for mesh fabric, the goal is to prevent fraying and create a clean and professional look. Here are some edge finishes that work well with mesh fabric:

Narrow hem: A narrow hem is a popular choice for mesh fabric It involves folding the raw edge of the fabric twice, typically about 1/4 inch (6mm) or less, and stitching it in place. This creates a clean and polished edge while minimizing bulk.

Bias binding:Using bias binding is a versatile option for finishing mesh fabric edges. Cut bias strips from lightweight fabric or use pre-made bias tape, and then apply it to the raw edge of the mesh fabric Stitch it in place, enclosing the edge and providing a clean finish.

Fold-Over Elastic: Fold-over elastic is a fantastic option for edge finishing with mesh fabric. Not only does it provide a gathered edge, but it also neatly encloses the raw edge at the same time. This makes it an excellent choice for creating expandable pouches and pockets on bags.

Ribbon or trim: Another way to finish the edges of mesh fabric is by using ribbon or decorative trim. This option adds a stylish and unique touch to your project. Choose a ribbon or trim that complements the colour and style of your mesh fabric.

Raw edge:Mesh fabric has a special quality – it won’t fray. This means you can leave the edges raw for a more casual and edgy look. This option works well for projects where you want to embrace the open and airy nature of the mesh fabric.

Decorative edge stitching:Consider using a decorative edge stitch to finish the raw edge of your mesh fabric. This can be done with a decorative stitch on your sewing machine or even with a contrasting thread colour. It adds visual interest while also preventing fraying.

Remember to test the chosen edge finish on a scrap piece of mesh fabric before applying it to your main project. This will allow you to gauge the result and ensure you’re happy with the finished look.