Mesh & screens · 4 of 5 · 1 min read
Tension
- Static frames at about 20–25 N/cm are suitable for garments; roller frames can reach about 40 (SPSI). Screen Printing Magazine calls 20 N/cm the minimum safe tension for most mesh counts; ScreenPrinting.com’s help center says at least 20, and 25 is better. Static frames lose tension over time.
- Keep all the screens in a job at similar tension. Mismatched tension is one of the most common causes of misregistration (Impressions; Ink Kitchen).
- Maximum tension depends on the mesh. Check the maker’s chart rather than guessing.
- Stretch with the warp threads running in the direction of the squeegee stroke; warp holds 5–15% more tension (Vastex).
Sources for this guide (18)
- Vastex, Screen frame information
- ASI Central, Wood vs. aluminum screen frames
- SPSI, Feeling the tension
- ScreenPrinting.com Help, How do I pick the right mesh count?
- ScreenPrinting.com, Which mesh count is right for me?
- ScreenPrinting.com, Everything you need to know to print an underbase
- Atlas Screen Supply, Mesh count chart
- Avient, PAGEJ100 Crystalina tech data sheet
- Dragonfly Colors, Mesh selection in screen printing
- International Coatings, Catalyst 900 (nylon)
- Vastex, Mesh information
- Screen Printing Magazine, Tensioning screens for smoother setups
- Chromaline, Causes of pinholes during screen making
- Catspit Productions, Proper emulsion performance
- Avient, Print technique guide, 2023 (PDF)
- ScreenPrinting.com Help, What’s considered good mesh tension?
- Impressions, Troubleshooting screen printing (2018)
- Ink Kitchen, Why out of register? Let me count the ways
Where sources disagree, the page says so.