Chapter 9
The Right Tools Help You Get Better Results
Understand squeegee types, profiles and durometers
The squeegee is one of the most important tools in screen printing. The right durometer, profile and sharp edge help you push ink through the mesh consistently, achieve proper ink coverage and get clean, repeatable prints.
Squeegee anatomy
Handle
Provides a comfortable grip and control.
Blade
Polyurethane blade in single or triple durometer.
Edge
A sharp, clean edge helps deliver consistent ink flow and clean prints.
Durometer (hardness)
Orange – 60
- Softer blade
- Good ink deposit
- Ideal for uneven surfaces, textured garments and specialty inks
Yellow – 70
- Most common
- Great all-around performance
- Good balance of ink deposit and control
- Works for a wide range of inks and garments
Green – 80
- Firmer blade
- Less ink deposit
- More control
- Ideal for fine detail, higher mesh counts and smoother surfaces
Single vs. triple durometer
Single durometer
- One consistent durometer throughout the blade.
- Simple and durable.
- Great for general use.
Triple durometer
- Firm outer layers with a softer center (white).
- Offers better ink release, control and durability.
- Ideal for automatic presses and high-volume production.
Blade profile
Square
- Most common profile.
- Good for general printing applications.
- Provides a clean, consistent stroke.
Bevel
- Reduced contact area.
- Requires less pressure.
- Ideal for fine detail, higher mesh counts and smoother surfaces.
Round
- Softer edge.
- Increases ink deposit.
- Good for textured surfaces and specialty inks.
Keep a sharp edge
Worn edge
- Rounded or nicked edges can cause poor ink flow, inconsistent prints and detail loss.
- Check and replace blades regularly.
Sharp edge
- A clean, sharp edge helps push ink through the mesh efficiently.
- Results in better coverage, cleaner prints and improved consistency.
Proper squeegee angle
- Hold the squeegee at a 60–75° angle during the print stroke.
- This helps roll the ink through the mesh and provides better control and ink coverage.
- Keep a consistent angle, pressure and speed for best results.
Suggested starting points
| Application | Durometer | Profile |
|---|---|---|
| General purpose / most jobs | 70 (Yellow) | Square |
| Fine detail / high mesh | 80 (Green) | Bevel |
| Textured garments (sweats, fleece) | 60 (Orange) | Square or Round |
| Specialty inks (high density, puff, metallic) | 60 (Orange) | Square or Round |
| Automatic presses / high volume | 70 (Yellow) Triple | Square |
Pallets & essential production tools
Set Up for Cleaner Prints and Higher Production
The right tools help you print faster, cleaner and more consistently
Pallets, pallet adhesive, flood bars and specialty tools all play an important role in print quality and production efficiency. Using the right tools and proper techniques helps keep garments in place, reduces fibrillation and delivers better results.
Pallet options
Aluminum
- Durable and long lasting
- Stays flat
- Good heat retention
- Great for high production
Composite
- Lightweight
- Good heat retention
- Gentle on garments
- Available in multiple sizes and shapes
Vacuum
- Holds garments in place using vacuum
- Ideal for lightweight, slippery or performance fabrics
Pallet adhesive
- Keeps garments in place during printing.
- Reduces shifting and registration issues.
- Available in temporary or permanent formulas.
- Apply a light, even coat.
- Reapply as needed to maintain hold.
Pallet tape
- Echo Pallet Tape 18″ × 100′
- Protects pallets from ink buildup and adhesive residue.
- Helps extend the life of your pallets.
- Easy to apply and remove.
- Replace regularly for best results.
Winged flood bars
- Used to pre-fill the screen with ink before the print stroke.
- Wings help contain ink and prevent spills.
- Allows quick and easy height adjustments.
- Helps maintain consistent ink flow across the screen.
- Available in multiple widths to fit your press.
Automatic roller squeegee (smoothing roller)
- Used after flashing the underbase to smooth the cured ink.
- Helps reduce fibrillation, especially on dark garments.
- Creates a smoother surface for top colors.
- Improves print quality and overall appearance.
- Recommended for high production and detailed prints.
Use firm, even pressure across the garment.
Roller sequence for multi-color printing
1. Print underbase
Print the underbase and cure with a flash.
2. Flash
Flash the underbase until it is dry to the touch.
3. Roller squeegee
Use the roller squeegee to smooth the flashed underbase and reduce fibrillation.
4. Print top colors
Print the top colors for a smoother finish, better detail and brighter results.
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