A practical guide to metallic decoration for custom apparel
Shiny Prints, Simple Process
If you’ve ever wondered how brands get those shiny metallic graphics onto shirts, chances are they’re using foil screen printing. This specialty technique adds a reflective layer—usually gold or silver—on top of a traditional screen print. But it’s not limited to just the basics. We’ve used foil in black (surprisingly bold on black garments), teal, red (serious pop!), and even holographic patterns. And while the result looks high-end, the process itself is straightforward and adaptable for a wide range of apparel projects.
Here’s what you need to know.
How Foil Screen Printing Works
Foil printing is a two-step process that builds on standard screen printing techniques:
An adhesive base is screen printed in the desired design, just like regular ink. We tint the adhesive to match the foil color, which helps scratches or wear blend in over time.
A sheet of metallic foil is heat-pressed onto the printed area. For small runs, this can be done by hand. For larger orders, we set up the foil application directly on press—though it requires a more complex setup.
The foil sticks only to the adhesive, leaving a crisp, high-shine finish.
Excess foil is removed, and the garment is cured to lock everything in.
The end result is a metallic graphic that reflects light and catches the eye—perfect for clients who want to stand out.
Traditional Glossy Gold Foil
This is the most common style of foil decoration. It has high reflectivity and looks amazing when first applied, but it does have a limited lifespan—usually around 5 to 10 washes if cared for properly. We recommend cold wash, inside-out, hang dry.
Glossy Foil Close-Up – High Shine Finish
A closer look at traditional glossy foil, showing its mirror-like surface and high reflectivity. Ideal for bold logos and premium designs.
Matte Teal Foil on Red Discharge Print – All-Over Design
This piece uses discharge ink for the all-over red-on-black design, creating a soft, dye-free base layer across the entire garment. Teal foil is added as an accent, offering contrast and shine without overpowering the design. It’s a great example of how foil can be layered over specialty inks when planned carefully.
Pink Foil Avengers Print with Glow-in-the-Dark Ink
This limited-edition piece was created for an Avengers movie premiere. The pink foil logo stands out on its own, but it’s surrounded by glow-in-the-dark ink that activates when the theater lights go down. A great example of combining specialty techniques for high-impact event wear.
Intricate Matte Silver Foil
This print features the phrase “Do it with passion or not at all” in matte silver foil, surrounded by intricate detailing. Matte foil offers a more subtle finish than gloss, but it's especially effective for designs that prioritize precision and long-term wear.
Matte Foil Detail – Close-Up
A closer look at the fine line work and texture in the Rigid design. Matte foil holds detail well, making it ideal for typography, filigree, and other precision-driven artwork.
Common Uses and Design Considerations
Foil is popular across industries because of its visual impact and versatility. But it works best when the design is planned with foil in mind.
Foil is popular across industries because of its visual impact and versatility. But it works best when the design is planned with foil in mind.
🔵 Best for bold, simple graphics – Thin lines or small text may not adhere cleanly
🔵 Often combined with regular inks – Foil works best as an accent alongside traditional ink colors, adding contrast and pop
🔵 Manual application requires separation – When foil is applied by hand, it can’t touch wet ink from other colors. Designs need spacing between foil and other printed areas. With automatic setup, this limitation doesn’t apply.
🔵 Great for limited runs – Especially when targeting premium or trend-driven audiences
🔵 Includes a small surcharge per location – Foil printing adds a modest per-piece cost due to extra materials and heat pressing. The adhesive counts as one ink color, and a separate foil fee covers the specialty process.
🔵 Two foil finishes with different durability – Glossy foil delivers maximum shine but typically lasts 5 to 10 washes with proper care. Matte foil has a softer look and holds up longer for customers who want more durability.
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What Distributors Should Know
For resellers and promotional apparel companies, foil printing is a value-adding option that doesn’t require complex setups. It’s an easy way to offer something premium—without having to commit to large runs or fully custom processes.
That said, it’s important to:
🔵 Understand your client’s expectations—foil looks high-end but does require special care (cold wash, inside out, gentle cycle)
🔵 Work with a printer experienced in specialty techniques—foil requires precision for clean application
When used intentionally, foil printing can elevate your apparel offerings and give clients something that stands out—both on the rack and in their customers’ wardrobes.
It’s Not Just for Fashion Brands Anymore
While foil used to be reserved for retail and fashion labels, it’s now showing up in corporate merch, event swag, and even fundraiser tees. If the goal is to stand out, metallic shine still works—and foil printing makes it accessible.
Need help identifying when foil’s the right fit? Let’s talk.
