What is screen count or mesh count?
The mesh count is the number of threads per inch (tpi) used to weave the mesh. Typical mesh counts for screen printing t-shirts range from 85 tpi to 355 tpi. The mesh count defines basically two things: The thickness of the ink deposit and the size ( or lpi ) of halftones that can be printed. The lower mesh counts, 85-110 tpi, have a relatively large thread diameter and more space between the threads ( called “open area” ). This allows for a thicker deposit and more ink to pass through the screen. Typically, lower mesh counts are used for specialty inks ( like glitter ) and when a thick deposit is needed on dark garments. The high mesh counts, 305-355 tpi, have a very small thread diameter and less open area. These are used when fine detail and high halftone lpi are needed. In the middle, 200-255 tpi, are general purpose screens for spot color, good detail and acceptable halftones.
The mesh count is the number of threads per inch (tpi) used to weave the mesh. Typical mesh counts for screen printing t-shirts range from 85 tpi to 355 tpi. The mesh count defines basically two things: The thickness of the ink deposit and the size ( or lpi ) of halftones that can be printed. The lower mesh counts, 85-110 tpi, have a relatively large thread diameter and more space between the threads ( called “open area” ). This allows for a thicker deposit and more ink to pass through the screen. Typically, lower mesh counts are used for specialty inks ( like glitter ) and when a thick deposit is needed on dark garments. The high mesh counts, 305-355 tpi, have a very small thread diameter and less open area. These are used when fine detail and high halftone lpi are needed. In the middle, 200-255 tpi, are general purpose screens for spot color, good detail and acceptable halftones.
