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Part 1 of 2-Screen printing on hoodies is a necessary and a lucrative part of printing here in the northern part of the country, but it does come with its challenges, especially when it comes to using the right adhesives. Hoodies are thicker and often vary in the weave and inside fleece texture, which can make it tricky to get a perfect print. Here, we’ll cover some of the top tips and tricks to achieve sharp, lasting designs with adhesives that ensure precision and ease.
1. Choose the Right Adhesive for the Job
Using the right adhesive is crucial, especially with thicker fabrics. For hoodies, a stronger adhesive like flash mist spray adhesive coupled with water-based pallet adhesive works best. Here’s a quick breakdown of common options:
- Flash Mist Adhesive Spray: Great for fleece and other textured materials. It provides a tacky surface that holds the hoodie securely without leaving too much residue.
- Tex Flash Mist Spray
- Water-Based Pallet Adhesive: Perfect if you’re working in bulk or need a reusable adhesive. It’s easier on the environment and provides excellent tack.
- Tek Mar TB-HV
- Web Spray Adhesive: Web spray has long been advertised and used as the solution to printing on fleece. However, the mess, the application, and the potential to get “gummed” up on the fleece inside, makes this my least favorite option and one I stay far away from.
- Tex Web Spray
2. Adhesive Application Tips
- Water-based Adhesive First: In my shop we found the combo of water-based adhesive and flash mist spray to be the best option for fleece. Start with TWO rounds of pallet adhesive (Flashing to warm up and dry pallets).
- Reapply Flash Mist Strategically: You don’t need to reapply after every print. Gauge when the hoodie starts slipping or lifting, then add a fresh layer as needed. I start with one initial spray to start and usually would reapply every two rounds of fleece.
3. Adhesive Control and Cleanup
- Edge Control: Hoodies have seams and sometimes pockets, which can cause lifting around the edges. Apply a bit more adhesive near these areas but be cautious not to overdo it.
- Cleanup Regularly: After several applications, the adhesive can build up on the platen. Clean with a simple degreaser or adhesive remover between big batches to keep prints consistent and reduce hoodie staining.
4. Getting That Print Just Right
- Secure the Hoodie Fully: Hoodies are heavier and can shift during printing. With a tacky adhesive layer, make sure the hoodie is pressed and smoothed out without wrinkles before you begin.
- Pro Tip: Flash and use a roller screen before you start actually printing. If you have the head space, you will flash, roll, then start your print order. If you have a smaller press with less head space or one flash, use revolver or multi print mode to flash and roll on the first rotation, printing on the second rotation. Takes time, but drastically eliminates misprints.
- Test and Adjust: Do a test print first, checking that your adhesive is holding everything in place without any lift-off. Adjust accordingly for more or less tack.
Mastering screen printing on hoodies can take a bit of trial and error, but with the right adhesive techniques, you’ll be well on your way to clean, professional-quality prints. Next week we will dive into printing techniques to take your fleece printing to another level. Happy printing, and may your hoodies look as amazing as your designs!
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