Custom Puff Screen Printing

Make Merch People Actually Want to Wear. Wholesale Puff Raised Screen Printing In Los Angeles: a bold 3D embossed texture that rises off the fabric, with a matte or shiny finish.

Raised 3D embossed texture, 1-8mm
Matte or shiny finish, any PMS color
Bold streetwear style, made in L.A.

Get a quote See how it works

Raised 3D texture, rises off the fabric

One pass, budget-friendly wow factor

Matte or shiny finish

Made in Los Angeles, wholesale pricing

Trusted by thousands of companies across the U.S.

3-D Textured

What is Puff Ink & How Does It Work?

Puff ink is not actually an ink. It is a heat-reactive additive stirred into plastisol before printing. At around 320 degrees F the flat print "puffs", creating a bold 3D embossed texture that rises above the rest of the fabric with a bright, opaque appearance. A streetwear mainstay built for designs that demand attention, it adds depth to custom puff printed sweatshirts, hoodies, dri fit shirts and t-shirts.

Raised 3D texture, 1-8mm above the fabric
One pass, a budget-friendly wow factor
Matte or shiny finish, any PMS color
Looks best with large designs and wide curves
Ability to do text and mix it with other kinds of printing

Pro Tip: Puff loves bold, simple, thick designs: chunky lettering and wide curves. Sharp fine detail softens as the ink rises, so we recommend a sample to approve the raise.

Connect with a rep

Bold chunky raised 3D puff print on a cotton t-shirt

Raised print, three ways

Puff Print T-Shirts vs High Density T-Shirts: Which is Better?

All three start with the same bold design. They just sit differently on the fabric. Puff rises in a soft pillowy dome, high-density builds sharp sculptural edges, and flat print stays level for the finest detail. Not sure which fits? Talk to an account rep.

Puff

Soft, raised & bold

One pass, budget-friendly
Soft pillowy rounded raise, 1-8mm
Matte or shiny finish
Streetwear wow factor

High-Density

Sharp & sculptural

Built up over many passes
Crisp, sharp vertical edges
Minimalist, premium look
The understated cousin of puff

Close-up of a flat screen print sitting level with the fabric

Flat Print

Finest detail

Sits flat, no raise
Sharpest fine detail
Widest color range, incl. jet black
Lowest cost, most versatile

The verdict

This comparison makes a lot of sense, both print styles offer a lot of definition and produce a head turning piece of custom merch. Luckily, this puts you in a win/win situation because you really can't go wrong when it comes to these two print techniques.

Both are made using plastisol ink screen printing ink the main difference being, puff ink uses an additive that is heat reactive to gain its definition. High density screen printing on the other hand, is made by the master printer making numerous passes to build up the ink. It is difficult to say one is better then the other because they are so different. Puff additive screen printing is more common in subculture fashion, like streetwear where bold styles are celebrated. High density is more understated and seen in company swag wishing to create a sharp minimalist design without losing that wow factor.

A Simple Guide

Is Custom Puff Print Screen Printing Right For You?

Puff print has been a fashion and pop-culture mainstay since the 1980s, but popularity isn't everything. Weigh the advantages & limitations below before you invest in your design, and ask an account rep if questions remain.

The Advantages & Limitations of Puff Print Ink

Advantages

Advantages of Puff Print Ink

One of the most unique & versatile screen printing techniques, made to impress. Keep in mind:

Budget-friendly alternative to high density: one pass versus up to 8.
Raises perceived value: a simple technique that looks complex.
Mix techniques: use puff selectively, like only on letter borders, for visual layers.
Two finishes: matte or shiny.

From custom joggers to dri fit custom shirts and premium cotton tees, puff brings your brand vision to life.

Limitations

Limitations of Puff Print Ink

Puff isn't ideal for every project. Consider:

Slightly dilutes color: expect a 3-5% variance in tone. For an exact match, water-based ink may suit better.
The higher it rises, the duller the color and the softer the edges. Best for thicker designs.
Improper curing can cause cracking. Choose a shop with experience.
Height is limited: the ink rises 1mm to 8mm.

Save Time, Simplify Your Life.

Talk it through with an account rep before you commit to a run. They will tell you straight whether puff suits your design.

Benefits of puff printing

Why Brands Choose 3D Puff

Bold 3D Texture
A raised, embossed print that rises 1-8mm above the fabric, impossible to ignore.
Single-Pass Value
One pass instead of high-density's many, the wow factor for less.
Matte or Shiny Finish
Choose the look: a soft matte raise or a bright glossy pop.
Elevated Perceived Value
A simple technique that reads as complex and premium to the untrained eye.
Mix & Layer
Use puff selectively (just the outline of letters) and pair it with flat ink for depth.
Streetwear-Ready
A pop-culture mainstay since the '80s, bold and made for statement merch.

Flat-lay of bold raised 3D puff-printed tees, hoodies, and sweatpants

Puff specs

Tips for Placing an Order for Puff Screen Print

There has been a huge surge in the popularity of custom 3D puff merch, but popular does not always mean right for you. A few things to weigh before you place the order.

Best Designs Bold, simple shapes & thick lettering

Puff Height Rises 1-8mm above the fabric

Finish Matte or shiny

Fabrics Best on cotton, the heavier the better

Start with the intended use

Just because something is popular does not mean it is right for you. The most important thing to consider is the intended use of your merch. 3D puff ink has the biggest wow factor on custom t-shirts & hoodies, though it works on many other garments too.

Keep the design bold and simple

After deciding on a garment, preparing your design is next. Custom puff screen printing is ideal for bold and simple designs. It has historically been used in lettering, but that shouldn't stop you from playing around with different shapes.

Plan ahead

It is always important to plan ahead when producing custom merch. If you are in need of a rush order, reach out to an account rep to learn about our current turnaround times. Unlike high density screen printing, puff is a much less time consuming process.

Bold & Simple Designs
Great For Outlining Text
Works Best on Cotton Garments
Always Plan Ahead

Pro Tip: 3D puff screen printing can be used in combination with different methods of customization to produce a totally unique garment with unparalleled texture.

How it works

Step 01

Choose your product(s)

Pick your blank (heavier cotton tees and hoodies puff best), then choose your colors, sizes, finish, and the print locations you want for each design.

Step 02

Upload your design

Send your bold, simple design and any special instructions. We check it for puff, your rep guides any tweaks, and you approve a proof before we print.

Step 03

Make a lasting impression

Lead the pack with raised, dimensional prints your employees and customers actually want to wear.

Want to feel the raise first?

We recommend it. The puff effect can shift a design as it rises. Ask your rep about a sample before a full production run.

Connect with a rep

Transparent pricing

How Much Does Puff Printing Cost?

Puff is priced like screen printing: by colors, print locations, and quantity, with no setup fees. Because it raises in a single pass instead of high-density's many, it is a budget-friendly way to get a premium dimensional effect.

1-8mmRaised puff height

1 passvs high-density's many

$0Setup fees

No setup fees Low minimums on every project Wholesale pricing at volume Matte or shiny finish

Get a quote

What Products are Best for Puff Ink Screen Printing?

When it comes to 3D puff screen printing on garments like custom dri fit t shirts, branded hoodies and custom printed sweatshirts, you really can't go wrong. This service looks and feels amazing. It shines on cotton: the heavier the garment weight the better the puff, though ultimately it depends on desired style. One thing to keep in mind is there are some limitations when it comes to putting puff ink on headwear. Custom puff screen printing is not for everyone, but if you're looking for an eye catching tactical garment, look no further.

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Products we puff print

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

T-Shirts

Hoodies

Sweatshirts

Sweatpants

Long Sleeves

Crop Tops

Tank Tops

Zip-Ups

Tote Bags

Jackets

Max Screen Areas

Print Sizes

Three screen sizes cover almost every job. Hover a size to see the area it covers on a standard adult tee. We don't restrict placement. We guide you to the most impactful options and send a proof before production.

Regular Screen Size

15in X 18in Visibility

The standard screen. Covers a full front or back chest print on a standard adult tee, and suits the large majority of puff orders.

Jumbo Screen Size

17in X 26in Visibility

Taller rather than much wider. Use it when a design needs to run further down the body than a regular screen allows.

All Over Screen Size

30in X 34in Visibility

The largest area we print. Designs run edge to edge across the garment for a full-coverage look.

Maximum puff screen printing areas shown on a t-shirt

Not sure which screen your design needs?

Why DTLA Print

We Don't Cookie Cut

Each project is unique and requires its own process. Depending on the desired product, we will customize the inks and process for each order.

Dedicated Reps

Each account receives a dedicated rep who can be reached by phone or via e-mail.

Quality Over Quantity

DTLA Print believes in quality over quantity and we want our customers to feel the same way.

Long Lasting Relationships

We value all of our clients and aim to solidify long lasting & mutually beneficial relationships.

Innovative Ideas

DTLA Print is proud to be a leading partner in the promotional products + fashion industry, with unique ideas + out of the box printing methods.

We Stand Behind Our Work

Our main goal is to provide peace of mind, so you can relax and have confidence that your job will come out exactly as you had imagined.

Recent work

3D Puff Printing Gallery

View Complete Portfolio

Raised 3D puff print in cream on a slate tee

Close-up of a bold blue puff print on textured fabric

Neon puff and flat ink print on a black tee

3D puff screen printing detail on knitwear

3D Puff Printing: Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Haven't found what you are looking for? Email or Contact us now here.

Can you puff print on other materials?

We can screen print puff inks on hoodies, t-shirts, sweaters, as well as numerous fabrics including puff printing on fleece, denim, cotton, polyester, spandex, and many others

What colors are available for puff printing?

We are able to custom match any PMS (Pantone Matching System) color for puff printing. Jet black is not available with puff printing as it dilutes the pigment as it expands.

Are there any difficulties with puff printing?

Colors can dilute between 5-10% from original starting color and lose vibrancy as the ink expands. To stay closer to a true PMS match we would suggest requesting a minimal raise or a sample to approve prior.

How should I wash puff printed garments?

To enhance the lifespan of your custom merch, we aways recommend it to be washed inside out washed inside out and puff print is no exception. Additionally, puff printed t-shirts, hoodies, and apparel should all be washed in accordance with the manufacturer's washing instructions.

What level of detail can puff prints achieve?

Puff screen printing can achieve around 80-85% detail compared to traditional non puff screen printing. The reason for this is that as the puff inks expand, the inks expand upwards as well as outwards. As the inks expand outwards to create that bubble effect, sharp edges tend to soften as it creates that "raised pillow effect".

Are 3D puff raised printing samples available prior to a production run?

Yes, we offer samples prior to placing a full production run. We highly recommend ordering samples, as the raised puff effect may alter your design to some degree.

What is puff ink and how does it work?

Puff ink is not really an ink. It is a heat-reactive additive stirred into plastisol before printing. When it reaches around 320 degrees F, the flat print puffs, creating a 3D embossed texture that rises above the rest of the fabric.

Puff vs. high-density - which is better?

Both look great. Puff uses a heat-reactive additive and raises in a single pass for a soft, rounded, streetwear look. High-density is built up over many passes for sharp, sculptural edges and a minimalist, premium feel. You really cannot go wrong. Your rep can help you choose.