Carbon nanotube cathodes (CNT cathodes) were fabricated by a screen printing method using multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The effects of surface treatment on CNT cathodes were investigated for use in high efficiency field emission displays. The optimum surface treatment for a CNT cathode is dependent on a relative bonding force of CNT films on the cathode after a heat treatment. Because of the high bonding force used in the Liquid method, this method is recommended for CNT cathodes which are heat-treated at $390^{circ}C$ in a $N_2$ atmosphere. The Rolling method is applicable for CNT cathodes fabricated at $350^{circ}C$ in an atmosphere of air. The results of this study provide basic criteria for the selection of an appropriate surface treatment for large area CNT cathodes.