Why Doesn't Matte Cover Silicone Require Leveling Before Baking?

Introduction

In garment screen printing, matte cover silicone is used to create soft, non-reflective, and textured finishes on fabrics. Unlike glossy silicone, matte silicone often does not require a leveling period before baking. This article explores the key reasons behind this difference in the printing process.

1. Different Rheological Properties (Flow Behavior)

Matte silicone is formulated with:

Higher viscosity (thicker consistency)

Quick-setting additives (reducing flow after printing)

Matting agents (e.g., silica or wax particles that disrupt smooth leveling)

Since matte silicone does not self-level as much as glossy silicone, waiting for leveling provides little benefit. Instead, it is designed to hold its texture immediately after printing.

2. Intentionally Retaining Texture

A key feature of matte silicone prints is their slightly rough or soft-touch finish. If allowed to level:

The matting agents may settle unevenly

The desired textured effect could be lost

The surface might become semi-gloss rather than fully matte

By baking immediately, the print retains its intended handfeel and appearance.

3. Faster Production Speed

Since matte silicone does not need leveling:

Print-to-cure time is shorter (increasing production efficiency)

No risk of dust or debris settling during a waiting period

Reduced risk of smudging since the ink sets quickly

This makes matte silicone ideal for high-volume printing where speed is essential.

4. No Risk of Bubbles or Craters

Unlike glossy silicone, matte silicone:

Traps fewer air bubbles due to its thicker composition

Does not rely on smooth flow for quality, so minor imperfections are less noticeable

Cures evenly even without leveling because of its rapid stabilization

5. Recommended Printing & Curing Process

For best results with matte silicone:

Print directly onto the fabric (no need for extended settling).

Flash dry (optional) for multilayer prints.

Bake immediately at 150–160°C for 1–2 minutes.

Conclusion

Matte cover silicone does not require leveling before baking because:
✔ It is designed to hold texture, not self-smooth
✔ Waiting does not improve finish and may reduce matte effect
✔ Immediate curing speeds up production without quality loss