What's the difference between thin thread and standard thread?Updated 3 days ago

In addition to mesh count, you'll also encounter two common mesh types: standard thread and thin thread. While both can produce excellent prints, each has its own advantages depending on your printing style and the inks you use.

Standard thread (sometimes called Hi-Tex) is the most common mesh found in screen printing shops. Because the individual threads are thicker, these screens are durable, hold high tension well, and are more resistant to tearing or accidental damage on press. They're an excellent choice for general production and everyday printing.

Thin thread (often referred to as Hi-Dro) mesh uses finer threads, creating larger openings while maintaining the same mesh count. Those larger openings allow ink (especially water-based and discharge inks) to pass through more easily, reducing screen clogging and improving ink flow. Because the threads occupy less space, thin thread mesh is also capable of holding finer detail while depositing ink more efficiently. Many printers find it produces excellent results with both water-based and plastisol inks, often requiring less squeegee pressure to achieve proper coverage.

The tradeoff is that thin thread mesh is more delicate than standard mesh and requires a bit more care during stretching, coating, reclaiming, and printing. However, once your process is dialed in, it can provide outstanding detail, smoother ink transfer, and excellent print quality, making it a popular choice for high-end production shops.