Surface Treatment of Shoe Material
Before printing silicone ink, proper surface treatment is essential.
Shoe materials like PU leather, EVA, or rubber often have low surface energy, which affects adhesion.
Tips:
- Clean oil and dust
- Use primer if necessary
- Test adhesion before mass production
Choosing the Right Silicone Ink
Different shoe materials require different silicone ink formulations.
For example:
- High elasticity silicone for sports shoes
- Strong adhesion silicone for leather
- High-density silicone for 3D effects
Choosing the wrong ink can lead to cracking or peeling.
Printing Thickness and Mesh Selection
Printing thickness directly affects the final appearance and durability.
Recommendations:
- Use proper mesh count for silicone ink
- Control layer thickness for 3D or flat effects
- Avoid overly thick layers to prevent curing issues
Curing Temperature and Time
Curing is one of the most critical steps in silicone screen printing.
If not properly cured:
- The print may feel sticky
- Poor wash resistance
- Reduced durability
Standard suggestion:
- 100–150°C curing temperature
- Adjust time based on thickness
Adhesion and Durability Testing
Always test before bulk production.
Common tests:
- Stretching test
- Washing test
- Peeling test
This ensures the silicone print meets quality standards for footwear applications.
