Specialties: for when "ordinary" isn't enough
Reflective, glitter, puff, high density, discharge — specialties give your print a character standard techniques can’t match. We actively develop our own formulations.
What are specialties?
Specialties are printing inks with special properties — they create effects that aren’t possible with regular ink. We typically use them within screen printing or as part of DTF transfers, depending on what works best for your project.
At Visualprint we actively experiment with new formulations. For example, our reflective coating for plastisol transfers with 35–55 µm glass beads — an in-house development you’ll find at few other printers.
Our specials
Foil (on clothing)
Heatpress foil in metallic, neon, holographic, suede-finish and flock. Sharp edges and intense colours — popular for sports clubs, fashion and events.
Multichrome
Ink that appears to shift colour depending on the angle. A dynamic, holographic effect that standard inks cannot achieve.
Glitter
Fine or coarse glitter particles in transparent or coloured ink. Available in gold, silver, copper, rainbow and almost any other colour.
High Density
Extra thick plastisol layer — for logos that really stand out. Rubber-like effect with sharp edges.
Glow in the Dark
Ink that charges by daylight and glows in the dark. Fun for kidswear, events and theatre productions.
Thermochromic
Temperature-sensitive ink that changes colour with warmth (body heat, coffee, sunshine). A surprising effect for merchandise and kidswear.
Photochromic
Ink that changes colour under sunlight or UV. White indoors, coloured outdoors — a striking effect for merchandise and events.
Debossing (apparel)
Logo or pattern pressed into the fabric — no ink, just relief. Works on fleece, softshell and heavyweight cotton items. A subtle, premium accent without colour.
When is specialty the right choice?
Specialties are the right choice when:
- You want to stand out from competitors — embroidered or standard-printed logos are everywhere
- You have functional requirements: low-light visibility, hygiene, durability
- You want a premium look without embroidery
- You have a specific effect in mind (3D, glitter, foil)
What you need to order
The design:
Vector (.AI.EPS.PDF.SVG) or high-resolution image. For specialties, graphic designs work best — fine detail or photography is less suitable.
The textile:
Specialties each have their own preferences. Discharge only on 100% cotton dark; puff on thicker fabrics; reflective works on most textiles.
Quantities:
Usually from 25 pieces (when applied via screen print). For reflective DTF and some other DTF specialties: from 1 piece.
Frequently asked questions
Puff works best on medium-weight and heavy fabrics. On too-thin shirts the 3D effect can be subdued. We advise upfront based on your textile choice.
Most are, some are limited. Discharge and glitter hold up excellently; puff weakens after very many washes; reflective holds well as long as not washed industrially at 60°C+. We advise per project.
Often, yes. Email us with what you have in mind. For R&D projects we charge development costs — offsettable against larger orders.
Some are (water-based, discharge), others contain plastisol and therefore PVC. Ask specifically about sustainability specifications if that matters for your project.
Examples & cases
reflective sport shirts, glitter kidswear, puff hoodies, discharge fashion
Why Visualprint
Honest advice
Advice on materials and techniques or processes — without preference for one specific technique.
Everything in-house
Screen printing, embroidery, DTF, discharge, sublimation and our specialties. From Pantone colours in direct screen printing to up to 15 colours in embroidery.
Our own R&D
We actively develop our own specials and explore new formulations. Got a special wish? Just ask.
45+ years of experience
Family business with short lines and a wealth of in-house knowledge. Since 1980 in Leidschendam-Voorburg.
Other techniques we offer
Screen printing
Robust and colour-precise. From 25 pieces.
Transfers
DTF, plastisol or silicone transfers. From 1 piece.
Embroidery
Premium look, durable.
Sublimation
All-over print on polyester sportswear.
Graphic screen printing
Posters and art prints up to 70x100 cm.
Lead time & price indication
Standard lead time: 7–14 working days — slightly longer than regular techniques due to extra process steps. R&D / experimental: by arrangement, can take longer.
Price: specialties carry a premium over standard screen printing or DTF. Request a quote for concrete numbers.