Different kinds of Print Effects

The foil technique is a decorative process that is achieved with a metallic paper leaving a shiny appearance, which is applied with precision by means of the heat of a special plate.

This technique consists of paper wrapped in a thin aluminum film to create a surprising metallic effect. It can be fluorescent, clear, translucent, wrapped in an opaque sheen or even create a holographic look.

Foil printing adds a touch of metallic shimmer to textiles, creating eye-catching designs that appeal to children's playful sensibilities. The most used or traditional colors are gold, silver and bronze.

While foil printing can produce stunning effects, it's important to note that traditional foil printing often involves non-biodegradable materials. However, some eco-friendly alternatives are emerging, such as using biodegradable or recycled foil materials.

Glitter prints infuse garments with sparkle and shine, making them irresistible to young ones. This technique involves applying glitter particles onto fabric using adhesive or heat transfer methods and has a transparent coating to prevent wear and tear by rubbing or washing, and in turn give it a nice and soft final touch.

It can be applied by screen printing with products that act as a binder and fix them to the surface. Glitter also comes as a thermo-adhesive textile vinyl sheet with shiny particles of various shapes and sizes that comes in a wide range of colors and effects.

Conventional glitter contains microplastics that pose environmental concerns, especially when they shed into the environment. As a result, there is rising consumer pressure for products to use eco-friendly glitter alternatives made from plant-based or natural materials.

Flock printing creates a velvety texture on fabric, perfect for adding tactile appeal to children's clothing. The term flock refers to small monofilament fibers usually made of nylon, rayon, or polyester, although there are other materials such as cotton, acrylic, viscose, and polyamide.

Flocking is the process that involves the direct application of fibers to a substrate or object previously covered with adhesive utilizing electrostatics, leaving them in a completely vertical position.

The high density of fibers provides an appearance with excellent color intensity. It is applied in two different ways: by direct screen printing on the garment or with thermal transfer flock sheets.

While traditional flock fibers may not be biodegradable, some manufacturers offer eco-friendly alternatives made from recycled or sustainable materials, such as bamboo or recycled polyester.

Puff printing adds dimension to designs by creating a raised, three-dimensional effect on fabric. This technique involves applying a special puff ink onto the fabric, which expands when exposed to heat, creating a raised surface.

The printing process is the same as traditional screen printing, but as it passes through the drying oven it causes the foaming agent to react giving an incredible 3D effect.

The 3D effect can be applied to your entire design or to just one sector to give more emphasis to a sector and highlight what you really need. There are no limits with this printing technique so you can do anything you want.

While puff prints can be visually striking, it's essential to choose water-based or eco-friendly puff inks to minimize environmental impact.

Glow-in-the-dark prints capture the imagination with their luminescent glow, making bedtime and playtime more magical for kids. These prints contain phosphorescent pigments that absorb light and emit a soft glow in the dark.

Phosphorescent or Glow-in-the-Dark inks are initially invisible inks that, when exposed to sunlight or visible light, "charge" and store energy that, later in the dark, is released as "phosphorescent" light. These phosphorescent effects are better the darker the room and the phosphorescence time of the ink varies according to the nature of the pigment used in its manufacture. 

This effect can also be applied by screen printing or with vinyl sheets. While traditional glow-in-the-dark materials may contain chemicals of concern, some manufacturers offer safer alternatives made from non-toxic, eco-friendly materials.

Thermal and water-sensitive prints add an element of surprise to children's clothing, changing color in response to temperature or moisture. These prints utilize specialized inks that react to heat or water, causing them to change color or reveal hidden designs.

To ensure eco-friendliness, opt for prints made with non-toxic, water-based inks and dyes that are free from harmful chemicals.