Puff Print vs Screen Print: What’s Better for Streetwear?

Printing Matters in Streetwear

When it comes to streetwear, design is only half the story. The other half lies in how that design interacts with the fabric—how it looks, feels, and lasts.

Two of the most common printing techniques in streetwear are screen printing and puff printing. While both serve their purpose, they cater to different kinds of aesthetics, budgets, and brand philosophies.

Screen Printing: Traditional But Flat

Screen printing is widely used because it's:

• Cost-effective

• Scalable for large batches

• Great for bold, flat graphics

However, screen printing has its limits:

• Lacks texture

• Doesn't age well with wear and wash

• Can feel too commercial for premium brands

Puff Print: Texture That Speaks

Puff print uses a heat-reactive ink that expands upon curing, creating a 3D, raised surface on the garment. This makes the design pop—literally and visually.

Why Puff Print Wins:

• Provides a premium, tactile finish

• Looks gritty and raw—perfect for underground aesthetics

• Stays crisp longer when cared for

Why UNherd Chooses Puff Print

At UNherd, puff printing isn’t a gimmick—it’s part of our DNA. Our goal is to make pieces that don’t just look different but feel different. Puff prints:

• Reflect the depth of our designs

• Add a physical element of storytelling

• Enhance the exclusivity of our limited drops

Every UNherd drop is printed with intention—textures you can feel, stories you can wear.

Final Verdict

If you're building a streetwear brand or buying from one, choose puff print when you want a design to command presence. Flat ink fades. Texture lasts.