Deciding What Mesh Count To Use
Deciding What Mesh Count To Use
Polyester mesh is commonly identified by its mesh count. Presently, there are 40 mesh sizes available in the market today. In a perfect world, each mesh count comes with its own indications but unfortunately, that is not the case. You can only determine the correct mesh count your designs require through trial and error. However, there are guidelines in choosing mesh counts which can reduce mistakes significantly.
As a general rule, lower mesh count means bigger holes. Print jobs that are not too complicated and multicolored often require lower mesh counts. Prints with glitter ink, special ink, and other add-ons like puff also need a bigger mesh count to allow more particles to reach the substrates. Mesh with higher counts are necessary for printing jobs that need thin ink coats. Intricate designs with halftones and fine details come out better with the use of mesh with higher counts. Middling mesh count is usually enough for ordinary and average designs like t-shirt prints. Most printers rely on average mesh counts for basic print jobs.
Mesh count is not defined by hole size alone. Usually, the type of polyester used also has an effect in the hole size. Monofilament mesh only uses thin thread, hence, the term monofilament. These are common in mesh with bigger holes. Multi-filament mesh is uncommon. It is usually made with several filaments twisted to form a single thread. Because of the breadth of the thread, the holes of multi-filament mesh are smaller.
These are the basic guidelines in minimizing mistakes. Try as many mesh combinations to find the one suitable for your design and business. Proper mesh count spells the difference between a good and bad design.
Deciding What Mesh Count To Use