How much clearance do I need around my image?

Minimum 50 mm clearance from the image edge to the inner frame edge on all sides. For larger images (over 300 mm), use 20% of the longest image dimension. This space allows ink to pool and the squeegee to travel properly.

What mesh count should I use?

Mesh counts here are quoted as T (threads per cm), the UK/European convention — divide a US threads-per-inch figure by 2.54 to convert (110 US = 43T). For textiles: 32-43T for bold graphics and thick ink deposit, 55-77T for finer detail. For paper and fine art: 90T for high detail, 120T for halftones. Higher T = finer detail but a thinner ink deposit. (43T ≈ 110 US mesh, 90T ≈ 230 US, 120T ≈ 305 US.)

How do I choose the right squeegee length?

The squeegee should extend at least 25 mm beyond the image on each side. If the image is 200 mm wide, use a 250 mm squeegee. Too short leaves unprinted edges, too long wastes ink.

Yes — screens are reusable. Reclaim the screen by removing the stencil with screen reclaimer solution, degrease, and re-expose with a new design. Well-maintained screens last hundreds of reclaim cycles.

What is off-contact distance?

Off-contact is the gap between the screen and the substrate (typically 2-4 mm for paper, 3-6 mm for textiles). It ensures the mesh peels away cleanly after the squeegee passes, leaving a sharp print.

ArtCalcs

Screen Size Calculator — Screen Printing Frame Size

Calculate screen printing frame size based on image dimensions and clearance.

Image Width

Width of your artwork/stencil image — the printed area, not the frame

Image Height

Height of your artwork/stencil image — the printed area, not the frame

Mesh Count

How We Calculate This

How Screen Size Calculation Works

Clearance = max(50 mm, 20% of the longest image side) on each side

Inner frame = Image + 2 × Clearance

Outer frame = Inner frame + 2 × Frame profile width

The clearance area gives ink room to pool at the start and end of the stroke and keeps the squeegee clear of the frame. The squeegee is sized 25 mm wider than the image on each side (image width + 50 mm); the flood bar is 20 mm wider each side. The frame profile width (set under Advanced options, default 40 mm) is added to both outer dimensions.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.