Screen Printing Ink Estimator
Enter print area, number of spot colours, mesh count, ink type, and run quantity to get ink weight per colour and total cost for the run. Plastisol, water-based, and discharge inks. Underbase white calculation included. Nothing uploaded.
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Ink Estimate
Learn more: Screen printing ink coverage and estimation
How mesh count affects ink consumption
Mesh count is the number of threads per inch in the screen. A lower mesh count (e.g. 86 TPI for underbase white) deposits significantly more ink per print. A higher mesh count (200-230 TPI) deposits much less ink and is used for fine halftones. Going from 160 TPI to 110 TPI roughly doubles the ink deposit. The calculator adjusts ink estimates based on the specific mesh count you are using.
Understanding underbase white and ink coverage
Printing any colour on a dark shirt results in the garment colour showing through and muting the ink colour. An underbase layer of opaque white is printed first (often at 86 TPI for maximum opacity), then the colour inks are printed on top. The underbase uses significantly more ink than standard colours due to the lower mesh count needed for opacity. Always plan for adequate white ink when printing dark garments.
FAQ
How much plastisol ink do I need for a 100-shirt run?
For a typical chest print (approximately 600cm² at 160 TPI mesh), a 100-shirt run with one colour requires approximately 120-150 grams of ink including setup waste. The exact amount depends on mesh count, print area, and ink type. Use the calculator for your specific job parameters.
How does mesh count affect ink consumption?
Mesh count is the number of threads per inch in the screen. A lower mesh count (e.g. 86 TPI for underbase white) deposits significantly more ink per print. A higher mesh count (200-230 TPI) deposits much less ink and is used for fine halftones. Going from 160 TPI to 110 TPI roughly doubles the ink deposit.
Do I need underbase white for dark shirts?
Yes - printing any colour other than white directly on a dark shirt results in the garment colour showing through and muting the ink colour. An underbase layer of opaque white is printed first (often at 86 TPI for maximum opacity), then the colour inks are printed on top. The underbase uses significantly more ink than standard colours due to the lower mesh count.