Mesh Counter 22 - 528 TPI | Precision Screen Determiner

The Mesh Counter is a physical quality control device designed to accurately determine the thread count of screen printing mesh within a tolerance of ± 2 threads per inch (TPI) across a range from 22 to 528 TPI.

Rather than using a electronic scanner or camera, this optical testing film relies on visual moiré interference patterns generated when placed directly over stretched mesh fabric.

How the Testing Films Work

The kit consists of two transparent overlay films that cover the entire testing spectrum:

• Low-to-Mid Range Film: Measures 22 to 276 TPI.

• High-Range Film: Measures 274 to 528 TPI.

To measure mesh size, place the appropriate film flat against the stretched fabric and slowly rotate it. As the lines on the film interact with the woven mesh threads, a visual moiré interference pattern appears. The center or apex of this pattern points directly to the mesh count marked on the ruler.

Application Breakdown by Mesh Count

• 22 – 86 TPI: Coarse mesh count used primarily for heavy glitter, shimmer inks, high-density specialty inks, and thick underbases on textiles.

• 110 – 160 TPI: Standard mesh range for general textile printing, athletic wear, block lettering, and heavy plastisol ink coverage.

• 200 – 305 TPI: Fine mesh count suitable for detailed graphics, halftone printing, water-based inks, and fine-line textile or graphic prints.

• 355 – 528 TPI: Ultra-fine mesh count used for precision industrial printing, printed circuit electronics, ultra-thin UV graphics, glass printing, and fine-line nameplates.