PRT-1001
Puff Print
Puff print is a screen print made with a puff ink or puff additive that rises when it is heat-cured, leaving a raised, three-dimensional texture on the garment. Puff rubber ink gives the raised area a rubbery finish. A second layer can be applied before the final cure: shiny gel for gloss, glitter for sparkle, or iridescent powder for a colour-shifting effect.
VISUAL EFFECTS
Raised, 3D puffed texture
HAND-FEEL
Raised, foam texture
BENEFITS
Heat lifts the print off the fabric surface, giving a raised, tactile finish that reads clearly on bold graphics and lettering. Gel, glitter or iridescent powder can be added before the final cure for gloss or sparkle.
LIMITATIONS
Puff height and adhesion depend on curing temperature and time. Overcuring flattens the puff and dulls a gel or glitter layer, so curing settings are confirmed on the production fabric before bulk.
PROCESS
[01] Screen Preparation
Coat the screens with the puff ink or puff additive and check that they are tensioned for precise printing.
[02] Printing
Print the puff ink onto the garment on a screen printing press, with enough pressure to build the required height.
[03] Second Layer Application
For a gel, glitter or iridescent finish, apply the second material onto the puff print while it is still wet or partly cured, with even coverage.
[04] Curing
Cure the print with a heat press or conveyor dryer. The heat makes the puff rise and fixes every layer.
TO CONSIDER
Substrate Compatibility
Make sure the fabric suits puff ink and any second layer, and can withstand the curing process without damage.
Curing Parameters
Fine-tune curing temperature and duration to reach the puff height and adhesion required without overcuring.
Testing and Prototyping
Test on sample fabric before production, especially when a gel, glitter or powder layer is added, to check the puff and the finish.
Washing and Care Instructions
Give end users clear washing and care instructions to extend the life of the print, such as avoiding harsh detergents and high-heat laundering.