Digitally produced label transfer using selective laser sintering (sls) methods

Abstract

A heat transferable label component for a garment or other clothing item or article is disclosed which is preferably produced using all digitally controlled manufacturing methods. The label component comprises a carrier layer, a release layer, an optional primer layer, a color design layer, a transition layer and at least one adhesive layer. The color design layer displays an image on the label, and the transition layer fixates the image and renders it wash and/or wear resistant. The at least one adhesive layer is positioned on the transition layer, and is preferably applied thereto via a selective laser sintering (SLS) process, wherein a powder layer is spread on the surface and fused with a laser. The adhesive layer can be a double layer comprising a white reactive adhesive layer that undergoes a crosslink reaction to become a thermoset and a substantially clear thermoplastic adhesive layer.