In screen printing, how does the mesh contribute to the process?

In screen printing, the mesh plays a crucial role by blocking the areas where ink should not pass. The mesh screen is designed with fine threads that create a pattern which is essential for controlling the flow of ink during the printing process. When a stencil is applied to the mesh, the open areas allow ink to pass through onto the substrate, while the blocked areas prevent ink from transferring, effectively creating the intended design.

The quality and size of the mesh are important because they influence the amount of ink that can be deposited as well as the level of detail that can be achieved in the print. A finer mesh is often used for detailed designs, while a coarser mesh may be suitable for larger areas of solid color. Thus, the mesh is fundamental to achieving precise and high-quality prints in screen printing.