Screen printing

The core equipment runs from screen to curing unit. Mesh count and ink type are the two variables that most directly affect the result. Mesh screen: polyester stretched over an aluminium frame. Low mesh count allows heavy ink flow for bold graphic prints; high count suits fine-line detail. Light-sensitive emulsion: coats the screen before exposure and hardens under UV light to form the stencil. Unexposed emulsion washes away during screen preparation. UV light source: exposes the coated screen through the film positive, hardening emulsion in the open design areas. Squeegee: draws ink across the screen with even pressure. Blade hardness affects ink deposit weight, which affects colour opacity and fabric hand. Ink: the most consequential specification. Plastisol inks contain PVC and phthalates, failing OEKO-TEX Standard 100. Water-based and discharge inks bond chemically with the fibre and are the correct specification for certified sustainable textile production.