Modern polyester
mesh threads are extruded (similar to fishing line), and are slick and
smooth so stencil films do not adhere readily. Abrading the mesh
increases the surface area on the knuckles for better gripping by the
stencil film. Abraders are fine silicon carbide micro-grit preparations.
Surprisingly, despite their effectiveness, they don’t feel rough when
rubbed between the fingers. This is because the particles are so fine.
Abrading the mesh is accomplished by
applying a small amount of mesh abrader onto the print side of the mesh
with a soft brush, and lightly scrubbing it.
Do not use household scouring powder to
abrade the mesh,these household cleaning products are too abrasive and
are guaranteed to shred the surface of the mesh. This will reduce the
screen’s life and leave lots of deep gashes and pits where ink and
emulsion can accumulate and become lodged, thereby increasing staining,
ghosting, and hazing problems in the screen.The best advice is to do it
once when the mesh is brand new, then again if necessary after five or
six stencils.