What is flocking?
Flocking is a surface finishing process that applies fine fibers to an adhesive-coated surface, creating a soft, raised texture similar to velvet or suede.
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Custom flocking services for playing cards, packaging, boxes, booklets, and other printed products. Flocking applies fine fibers to selected areas to create a soft, velvet-like texture with a distinctive tactile finish.

Flocking is a surface finishing process that applies fine synthetic or natural fibers to an adhesive-coated surface, creating a raised layer of short fibers that changes both the appearance and tactile feel of the finished product. During the process, the fibers are applied to the adhesive while it is still active, allowing them to bond to the surface and form a dense, even texture. Depending on the production method and fiber specification, the finished surface can have a soft, velvet-like or suede-like feel.
Flocking can be applied to paperboard, cardstock, packaging board, boxes, booklets, and other suitable substrates. It can cover an entire surface or be applied selectively to specific areas such as logos, patterns, illustrations, borders, or other graphic elements. Spot flocking creates a clear contrast between the soft, textured areas and the surrounding printed or coated surface.
From a visual perspective, flocking adds depth and a matte, fabric-like appearance that is different from conventional printing, varnish, or foil finishes. From a tactile perspective, it introduces a noticeable soft texture that can be used to highlight selected elements or create a consistent surface treatment across the product.
The artwork is prepared according to the required flocking area, design, and substrate. The surface is checked to ensure it is suitable for adhesive application.
A suitable adhesive is applied to the areas that will receive the flock fibers. The adhesive layer must provide consistent coverage for an even flocking effect.
Fine flock fibers are applied to the adhesive-coated surface. In electrostatic flocking, an electric field helps orient the fibers upright, creating a more uniform velvet-like texture.
The adhesive is cured to secure the fibers, followed by removal of excess fibers and final inspection of the flocked surface.
| Finish | Surface Effect | Tactile Feel | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flocking | Velvet-like fiber texture | Soft, raised | Premium packaging, specialty cards |
| Soft-Touch Lamination | Smooth matte surface | Smooth, soft | Cards, covers, packaging |
| Varnish | Glossy or matte coating | Mostly smooth | Printed cards and packaging |
| Embossing | Raised paper surface | Firm, dimensional | Logos, patterns, premium details |
| Foil Stamping | Metallic surface | Relatively smooth | Logos, text, decorative details |
Browse related product categories and explore our manufacturing capabilities, from playing cards and TCG products to games, puzzles, and more.
Choose from industry-standard finishes to improve print protection, shuffle feel, and brand look. Each finish has its own fit for durability, gloss/texture, ink hold-out, and cost. See what works best for your deck’s paper stock, color style, and budget—then lock it in with confidence.

Flocking is a surface finishing process that applies fine fibers to an adhesive-coated surface, creating a soft, raised texture similar to velvet or suede.
Flocking can be applied to suitable playing cards, tarot cards, game cards, packaging, boxes, booklets, covers, and other printed products.
Yes. Flocking can be applied to selected areas of suitable card materials to create a soft, textured surface and distinctive tactile effect. Material compatibility should be confirmed before production.
Yes. Spot flocking can be applied to specific areas such as logos, patterns, text, or illustrations. This creates contrast between the flocked and unflocked areas.
Flocking fibers are available in a range of colors. Custom colors can be considered to match the artwork, branding, or overall product design.
Yes. Flocking can be combined with printing, foil stamping, embossing, or other finishing techniques, depending on the material, artwork, and production sequence.
Flocking works best with clear shapes and relatively bold graphic elements. Very small text, thin lines, and highly detailed patterns may require artwork adjustments to achieve a clean result.
Yes. A sample is recommended for new materials, colors, complex designs, or combinations of multiple finishes. It allows the flocking texture, adhesion, color, and overall appearance to be evaluated before mass production.
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