How Special Ink Finishes Elevate Screen Printed Clothing

When it comes to screen printed clothing in the UK, sometimes standard inks aren’t enough to make your designs truly stand out. That’s where special ink finishes come in. From metallics and glow-in-the-dark effects to puff and textured inks, these options allow you to add something unique to your brand’s merchandise, retail drops or event clothing.

At Vektor, we specialise in helping brands push beyond the basics - combining high-quality printing with innovative finishes that get noticed.

What are Special Ink Finishes?

Special ink finishes are exactly what they sound like: inks that go beyond standard water-based or plastisol printing to create unique textures, effects and finishes. Some of the most popular include:

• Metallic Inks - Gold, silver, bronze and more, giving your design a premium, reflective shine.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Inks - Perfect for events, festivals or merch that lights up after dark.
• Puff Inks - Expand when cured, creating a 3D, raised effect.
• High-Density Inks - Sharp, tactile finishes for bold graphics.

Why Choose Special Inks for Screen Printed Clothing?

Adding a special finish can take your clothing from standard to unforgettable. Some of the biggest benefits include:

• Brand Impact: Metallic or textured finishes add a premium feel to retail collections.
  
• Event Appeal: Glow-in-the-dark and neon inks make clothing ideal for festivals and night events.
  
• Exclusivity: Limited-edition runs with unique finishes create demand and urgency.
  
• Tactile Experience: Raised or textured prints invite touch, increasing perceived value.
  

For UK brands looking to stand out in a competitive market, these details matter.

Special Finishes and Fabric Choice for Screen Printing

Not every finish works with every garment. For example, metallics and foil adhere better to flat, smooth fabrics, while puff inks shine on heavier garments like hoodies. At Vektor, we guide you through the technical side of choosing the right combination so the effect is as durable as it is eye-catching.

Balancing Creativity with Durability

The biggest question with special finishes is always ”will it last?”

Our in-house studio uses only professional-grade inks and curing processes to ensure that your metallics don’t fade, your glow inks stay bright, and your puff inks remain bold after multiple washes. This balance between creativity and durability is what sets our screen printed clothing apart.