Adding a special touch with puff ink. An easy way to customize your screen printed merch.
Puff ink screen printing is a technique used to create a raised, three-dimensional effect on the design. It's a popular choice for adding a unique and eye-catching element to t-shirts, tote bags, and other fabric items.
Here's how puff ink screen printing works:
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Base Design: The first step involves screen printing your desired design using regular plastisol ink. This creates the base layer of the design that will show through the final raised puff effect.
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Puff Additive: A special puff additive is then mixed with the plastisol ink. This additive contains chemicals that cause the ink to expand and puff up when heated.
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Puff Print: A second screen is used to print the design again, this time using the plastisol ink with the puff additive.
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Heat Curing: Once the ink is printed, the garment is passed through a heat press or conveyor dryer. The heat activates the puff additive, causing the ink to expand and rise, creating the characteristic three-dimensional puff effect.
Benefits of Puff Ink Screen Printing:
- Dimensional Design: Adds a unique textural element to your design, making it stand out from flat prints.
- Durability: Puff ink can be quite durable when cured properly, withstanding washing and wear.
- Soft Feel: Despite being raised, puff ink remains soft and flexible, unlike some other raised print methods.
- Versatility: Puff ink can be used on various designs, from lettering and logos to more intricate graphics.
Things to Consider with Puff Ink:
- Color Shift: The puff additive can sometimes cause a slight lightening of the ink color. It's advisable to test prints beforehand to ensure the final color meets your expectations.
- Limited Color Palettes: Complex designs with multiple colors might be challenging with puff ink due to the additional printing steps involved.
- Cost: Puff ink printing typically costs more than regular plastisol ink printing due to the additional materials and processes involved.
Overall, puff ink screen printing is a great way to add a touch of dimension and visual interest to your screen printed projects. While there are some limitations to consider, the unique raised effect can make your designs truly stand out