Streetwear
The 3D effect gives lettering and logos exactly the presence streetwear drops need.
Effect screen printing from Hannover-Linden
Puff printing (3D screen printing)
With puff printing the ink foams up under heat and creates a tangible, raised relief. A bold 3D effect that makes logos and lettering stand out – a favourite in streetwear and merch.
What is puff printing?
For puff printing we first print a puff underbase mixed with a heat-reactive blowing agent, and the actual highlight colour on top of it. As the print runs through the dryer tunnel, the blowing agent expands under heat, the ink foams up – and what remains is a raised, slightly rubbery relief. That is why it is also called 3D or relief printing. Temperature is critical here: run it too hot and the bubbles collapse, and the effect falls flat. That is exactly why we control the curing precisely. Exact Pantone matching is not possible with puff printing, because the colour changes as the ink foams up.
Which artwork & garments are suitable?
Puff suits bold, solid artwork – no fine lines and details. We print the puff ink with very coarse mesh and a high ink deposit so it foams up strongly. Fine details or halftones lose sharpness in the process; for those, classic screen printing is the better choice. Because puff works with coarse mesh, a high ink deposit and a separate underbase, it takes more effort and costs more than regular screen printing. Puff can be produced on most cotton and blended garments such as shirts, hoodies and sweaters.
Why puff printing?
The tangible 3D effect gives artwork a presence that flat printing cannot achieve – eye-catching and still premium. Ideal for lettering and solid logos, and feasible on many garments.
Using puff deliberately
Puff does not have to take over the whole design. Often we highlight only individual elements – a piece of lettering, a logo – with puff and print the rest flat. That creates an interesting contrast between raised and smooth areas.
Feel, height & durability
The relief stands noticeably off the garment and can be felt with your fingers. How high the effect turns out depends on the ink deposit and the artwork; we'll advise you on that upfront. Correctly heat-cured, puff printing is wash-resistant; we recommend washing inside out and cold and not tumble drying, so the relief lasts for a long time.
Who it's for
Fashion labels
Texture as a design element – the print becomes a tangible part of the product.
Band merch & statement prints
Bold artwork for band merch and event merch that works from a distance and up close.
How it works
- 1
Enquiry or instant price in the configurator
- 2
Advice on technique and garment
- 3
Review and approve the quote
- 4
Production and shipping
Deadline in just a few days? We print express too.
Frequently asked questions
Ready for your project?
Whether 30 or 30,000 garments – get your price straight from the configurator or visit our showroom for samples and advice.