Flocking (texture)

Flocking is the process of depositing many small fiber particles (called "flock") onto a surface. It also refers to the texture produced by the process.

Flocking can be a decoration process that enhances the way a wide variety of products are experienced by making ordinary surfaces seem far more magical and special. Flocking of an article can be performed for the purpose of increasing its value in terms of the tactile sensation, aesthetics, color and appearance, and/or a wide variety of other functions — such as insulation, slip-or-grip friction, etc.

Uses

Flocking is used in many ways. One example is in modeling, where a grassy texture may be applied to a surface to make it look more realistic. Another is on a Christmas tree,which may be flocked with a fluffy white spray to simulate snow. Other things may be flocked to give them a velour texture such as t-shirts or wallpaper. Many rally cars also have a flocked dashboard to cut down on the sun reflecting through the windscreen.

Besides the application of velvety coatings to surfaces and objects there exist various flocking techniques as a means of color and product design. They range from screen printing to modern digital printing in order to refine for instance fabric, clothes or books by multicolor patterns. Presently, the exploration of the flock phenomenon can be seen in the fine arts.

Flocking in the automotive industry is used for decorative purposes and may be applied to a number of different materials. Flocking is currently being utilized by the automobile industry in a wide range of locations. A view on the present state-of-the-art of flocking can be found in the first international exhibition "Flockage: the flock phenomenon" in the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum in Bournemouth. [cite web | url=http://russell-cotes.bournemouth.gov.uk/News/2008/FreeGalleryTalkFlock.asp | title=For the Love of Flock – Flocking Lovely! | publisher=Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum | work=Free Gallery Talk | date=May 9 2008 | accessdate=2008-05-23]

Process

Flocking is the application of fine particles to adhesive coated surfaces. Nowadays, this is usually done by the application of a high-voltage electric field. The majority of flocking done worldwide uses finely cut natural or synthetic fibers. A flocked finish imparts a decorative and/or functional characteristic to the surface. The variety of materials that are applied to numerous surfaces through different flocking methods create a wide range of end products. The flocking process is used on items ranging from retail consumer goods to products with high technology military applications.

Historians claim that flocking can be traced back to circa 1000 BC, when the Chinese used resin glue to bond natural fibers to fabrics. Fiber dust was strewn onto adhesive coated surfaces to produce flocked wall coverings in Germany during the middle ages. In France, flocked wall coverings became popular during the reign of Louis XIV of France.

References