What is flocking?
Flock printing is a technique that involves cutting out a heat-sealable material (which adheres under the action of heat) called Flex. This material is then transferred onto the textile using a heat press.
Using the cutting software, you will cut a vector graphic (lettering or a simple design). Keep in mind that the cut will be made on a solid color. In other words, to create multi-colored designs, you will need to make several cuts. Then, under the heat and pressure of a heat press, the heat transfer vinyl adheres to the fabric. This technique will allow you to achieve a slightly raised finish and a variety of effects to suit all your creations: smooth, velvet, metallic, glitter, neon, etc.
You can absolutely mix flex materials, either by placing them side-by-side or layering them, as long as you follow certain rules. For more information, please refer to our guide on layering flex materials.
What are the advantages of this technique?
- It allows you to personalize all types of materials (cotton, polyester, etc.) and colors (white, dark, black, etc.)
- It has exceptional wash resistance : it withstands 60 to 90 washes and the fabrics can be washed up to 90°C
- It is ideal for workwear or sportswear
- It allows you to create many different effects : fluorescent, metallic, glittery, etc.
- It is suitable for both small and large production runs
What are the steps?
What equipment is needed for the flocking technique?
- A cutting plotter such as those from Graphtec
- Cutting software (supplied with the plotter or available for purchase separately depending on the model)
- Cutting flex material
- A heat press such as the Secabo TC7 Lite 40 x 50 cm
- Accessories: weeding pliers , Teflon sheet , Teflon pad , high-temperature tape , etc.
- Textile supports
- Webinar - The Flock Printing Technique
- Webinar - Our Cutting Flex
- Facebook Live: Flock Printing Creations with Siser Flex
- Facebook Live: Flock Printing Creations – Easter Special
- Creative Tutorial – Personalizing a Placemat with POLI-TAPE Flock Printing
Find all training dates and register for free by clicking on this link.
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See you soon,
The Créadhésif Team
