The following aspects can be considered to determine the mesh count of the embossed screen printing for clothing:
1. The fineness of the pattern
Simple pattern
For simpler patterns, such as geometric figures, large solid color areas, or designs with rough lines, you can usually choose a lower mesh screen. Generally speaking, a screen with 80-120 mesh may be sufficient to meet the needs.
For example, a pattern composed of simple circles and straight lines, or a large area of single-color embossing, using a low-mesh screen can make it easier for the ink to pass through, and the printing speed will be relatively fast.
Complex pattern
When the pattern is more complex, containing fine lines, small fonts, delicate textures or gradient effects, you need to choose a higher mesh screen. Usually choose in the range of 150-300 mesh or even higher.
For example, a fine floral pattern with many fine petal and stamen details, or an embossed design with fine fonts in the brand logo, a high-mesh screen can better present these details and make the pattern clearer and sharper.
2. Ink characteristics
Consistency
Thicker inks usually require a lower mesh screen so that the ink can pass through the screen smoothly. If the ink is too viscous, using a high mesh screen may cause clogging and affect the printing effect.
For example, some silicone inks with a three-dimensional effect are usually thicker and may be suitable for a 80-150 mesh screen.
On the contrary, thinner inks can use a higher mesh screen to obtain a finer printing effect. For example, water-based inks are usually thinner and can choose a 150-250 mesh or higher mesh screen.
Particle size
If the ink contains larger particles of pigments or additives, a lower mesh screen needs to be selected to prevent the particles from clogging the screen. For inks with smaller particles, a higher mesh screen can be selected.
For example, some inks containing metal particles may require a lower mesh screen to ensure that the particles can pass smoothly.
3. Printing effect requirements
Three-dimensional effect
If you need to print an embossed effect with a strong three-dimensional effect, you may need to use a lower mesh screen to print a thicker ink layer. A lower mesh screen can hold more ink, making the pattern more prominent on the fabric.
For example, some garment embossing that needs to highlight the brand logo or specific pattern may choose a lower mesh screen to increase the three-dimensional effect.
Delicateness
For embossed designs that pursue delicate and smooth printing effects, a higher mesh screen should be selected. A high mesh screen can print a thinner and more uniform ink layer, making the pattern look more delicate.
For example, some exquisite embossed patterns on high-end clothing may require a high mesh screen to achieve a delicate effect.
4. Fabric characteristics
Texture and thickness
For fabrics with rough or thick surface textures, such as denim, thick cotton, etc., a lower mesh screen can be selected. A lower mesh screen can better adapt to the texture and thickness of the fabric, allowing the ink to fully penetrate the fabric.
For example, when embossing on denim, a 80-150 mesh screen may be more suitable, because the texture of denim is coarse and requires more ink to cover.
For fabrics with smooth and thin surfaces, such as silk and thin cotton, a higher mesh screen should be selected to prevent excessive ink penetration to the back of the fabric and affect the printing effect on the front.
Ink absorption
Fabrics with strong ink absorption may require a lower mesh screen to provide sufficient ink. Fabrics with weak ink absorption can choose a higher mesh screen to avoid excessive accumulation of ink on the surface of the fabric.
For example, some natural fiber fabrics such as cotton and linen have strong ink absorption, so a lower mesh screen can be selected; while some synthetic fiber fabrics such as polyester have weak ink absorption, so a higher mesh screen can be selected.