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What is flock printing and how does it work? (2023)

18-Jan-2023- 3 min read

The process of printing with the flock is similar to that of vinyl printing in that it is made with the plotter before being placed on the item using an industrial heating press.
Flock printing is possible with the help of flock vinyl. It gives your design a 3D "free finish. The flake material is cut and then applied to many various products.

How can you use flock printing?

Flocking is more than just the attachment of microfibers to an adhesive-flocked surface. There are four ways to form this design. Some are more scientific than others. Deciding on the most effective method depends on the capacity of the screen-printing wholesale factory, the number of colors that will appear in the image, and the purpose of the final product.

The process for each type of flock printing generally follows the steps: making the stencil, applying adhesive to the substrate and then adding the flock, drying or curing, and then cleaning any remaining feathers. The flock that doesn't flow over the stencil could be removed manually using the use of a blow-dryer or vacuum.

Manual flocking.

The most fascinating method, direct or manual flocking, can be achieved by skilled screen printers using the appropriate equipment. In this method, machines sketch the outline of the object using adhesive ink. Then, the product is sent to a flocking machine, where the electrostatic charges are applied. The negative charge-laden fibers in the flock get redirected to a grounding substance, such as a T-shirt or a plastic car interior. If it is landed on a non-sticky object that has a negative charge, the opposite one makes the flock move in a straight line with its own. This results in a clean look of cloth. The glue cures at more temperature than regular inks, based on the type of material. The more robust the glue that is used is, the better it will be able to withstand drying and cleaning.

Stencil flocking

Transfer flock is a great option for those looking to reduce time and costs or work with difficult fabrics like terry cloth or other unusually shaped objects. The flock is powered by an outback which can be digitally cut using a stencil within the file. The backing and the solder are then heated up against the substrate to make the connection. A few designers are using this method to substitute the traditional flocking process and embroidery for projects that are difficult due to its versatility and its suede-like appearance. The flock stencil is also able to include features like flexibility, which is perfect to add designs to uniforms for school or sports which are frequently worn.

Transfer Flocking

The process begins similar to traditional screen printing, by applying an adhesive ink to the substrate in the shape of the image, then curing then drying. Transfer paper that is a flock of the right color is laid over the ink and press-blocked until the design is transferred to the original design. When the designers remove the transfer and remove the flake, it remains in the middle of the glue.

Air flocking compressed.

One of the most efficient and easiest methods of applying flocks is using a specially designed compressed air flicker. A flocking gun or machine is used to apply the same kind of flux to an adhesive surface that has been laid. In contrast to manual flocking, unneeded flocking can be removed or cut to create the desired form.

Advantages

  • The primary advantage of flock print is the soft texture, which is a sign of beauty, adding a touch of elegance to the cloth.
    The process is also distinguished by a professional finish and finish, which is a soft, smooth surface that leaves a wow effect on the product.
    The fibers that are woven are not able to permit scratches or scuffs, which results in a uniform, elegant appearance.
    In addition, the process is extremely cost-effective and much lower than embroidery. It is extremely pocket friendly.
    The quality of single-color flock printing is extremely good, high-quality, and reliable.

Conclusion

Flocking is an excellent alternative way to get this unique appearance. It's a bit more costly than a typical screen print, and when paired with fabrics, it's cheaper than embroidery. With the latest adhesive technology, nearly all materials can be bonded and it is easy to include new products in your production capabilities in textiles. Although the process requires the use of special equipment, however, with the right training, a top-quality product is possibly to be made.

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Retail Ready Screen Printing

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50 Pieces

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Custom Hats

100 Pieces

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