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nodove · May 2nd, 2009

Hi guys,

can i stretch the mesh using my bare hands? i use staples and pull it tightly before i staple to the other hand. what is the cons of 'not so tight' mesh?

thanks u guys

ino · May 2nd, 2009

I doubt that you can do it, maybe using a good quality canvas stretching pliers might be a better idea.
However if you look up in the archives, a certain member CUTTIT has managed to make a jig which was successful. Check it out.

nodove · May 2nd, 2009

Thanks ino for your info =) much appreciated!

PositiveDave · May 2nd, 2009

If the mesh has uneven tension then you're likely to get moiré with halftones and different amounts of ink going down across the print.
You can only try it though. If it works for you...

Solmu · May 2nd, 2009

I've seen it done on large screens that were used for on-contact fabric printing. This is pretty much one of the best case scenario applications for hand stretched mesh. Even then though, it wasn't great, and no-one would use it for more than a one colour print. So yeah, technically it can be done and still used to print in some circumstances. I wouldn't recommend it at all though.

I've never tried canvas stretching pliers in this context; might work, but my concerns would be still getting enough tension, and ripping the mesh since they're not designed for it. Still, it's a good idea and it might be worth experimenting with if you're inclined to experiment.

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Can i stretch the mesh using my bare hands?