Guide to production & printing methods
Direct to film
DTFx (Direct to Film) is a printing method ideal for sharper, more vibrant prints. Unlike DTG, where ink is absorbed into the fabric, DTFx prints rest on the surface, forming a thin (.1mm) film-like layer with a smooth, slick texture. This makes it especially effective for heavy-weight blanks, as the ink doesn’t sink into the material, preserving its vibrancy and detail.
One of the key benefits of DTFx is its ability to produce bold, saturated colors, offering results comparable to screen printing on demand. However, large solid designs can feel thick, so incorporating negative space helps maintain a balanced and professional look.
Because DTFx prints sit on the fabric’s surface, heavy-weight materials are ideal for supporting the ink, while lighter fabrics may not handle the weight as effectively. The result is a durable, long-lasting print with a sleek feel and premium texture that elevates your apparel.
Direct to garment
DTG printing, or Direct to Garment printing, has gained popularity for its versatility and ease of use. Unlike traditional methods that layer ink on top of the fabric, DTG printing infuses the ink into the material, resulting in a design that feels soft and breathable, as if it’s part of the garment itself. This makes it comfortable to wear for long periods.
One of the main benefits of DTG printing is its ability to produce vibrant, detailed designs with exceptional clarity. Thanks to advanced technology, DTG printers can capture even the smallest details, making this method ideal for intricate designs or photo-realistic images with rich colors.
DTG printing is also highly versatile, working well on a variety of garment types. From lightweight t-shirts to heavy hoodies and even tote bags, this method delivers consistent, high-quality results across multiple product types.
Embroidery
Embroidery is an ideal choice for designs that need texture and depth. To achieve the best results, focus on simple graphics and limit your color palette. Complex designs with too many details may lose clarity when embroidered, so keeping things minimal ensures a clean and professional finish.
Gradients and photorealistic images are not recommended for embroidery, as they are difficult to replicate with thread. Instead, bold text or straightforward graphics work well, creating a design that is both striking and easy to stitch.
Line thickness is another important factor when designing for embroidery. Thin lines should be at least 0.05'' (4pt) wide to guarantee they can be stitched accurately. With these considerations in mind, you can create beautiful, high-quality embroidered designs.
Silkscreen Printing
Screen printing, also known as silk screen printing or serigraphy, is a widely used technique for transferring designs onto various surfaces—most commonly fabric, such as t-shirts, tote bags, or other garments and accessories. This method involves creating a stencil (known as a screen) and using it to push ink through a mesh to apply the design.
The basic process is consistent, but variations in techniques and materials allow for intricate and detailed designs. These can include multiple colors or special effects like halftone or duotone, offering versatility for creative projects.
This method is particularly well-suited for bold, vibrant designs and is cost-effective for high-volume orders. It produces durable, long-lasting prints with vivid, opaque finishes, making it a popular choice for both simple and complex designs.
Dye Sublimation
Dye sublimation printing is a process that uses heat to transfer dye directly into the fibers of a material, creating vibrant and durable designs. Unlike traditional printing methods that layer ink on the surface, sublimation dyes are converted into gas under high heat and bond with the material on a molecular level. This results in prints that are seamless, long-lasting, and resistant to fading, cracking, or peeling.
This method is most effective on polyester fabrics or materials with a special polymer coating. It works particularly well on white or light-colored surfaces, as sublimation dyes do not print white ink. Dye sublimation is popular for creating vibrant, all-over designs on products such as apparel, drinkware, phone cases, home decor.
UV Inkjet
UV printing is a modern digital printing technique that uses ultraviolet light to cure (or dry) ink as it is applied to a surface. Unlike traditional printing methods, where ink may take time to dry, UV printing instantly cures the ink, creating a durable and vibrant design with high precision.
This method is highly versatile and can print on a wide range of materials, including:
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Plastics: Phone cases, signage, and promotional items.
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Glass: Awards, drinkware, and decor.
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Metal: Plaques, keychains, and business cards.
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Wood: Personalized gifts, signage, and decorations.
UV printing is perfect for intricate, full-color designs and can incorporate special effects like raised textures or glossy finishes. It produces long-lasting prints that are resistant to fading, scratches, and wear, making it an excellent choice for high-quality, professional-grade products.
Other decoration methods
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Digital Printing: Used for paper products like posters, greeting cards, and journals, digital printing employs professional-grade inks to produce sharp, vibrant, and high-quality designs.
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Pad Printing: A versatile method that uses a silicone pad to transfer ink onto curved or irregular surfaces, making it perfect for items like pens, golf balls, and promotional products.
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Embossing/Debossing: These techniques create raised (embossed) or recessed (debossed) designs on materials like leather, paper, or metal, adding a tactile and premium feel to items such as journals, business cards, and packaging.
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Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV): Designs are cut from vinyl and heat-pressed onto garments or accessories, resulting in bold, durable decorations.
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Laser Engraving: A laser permanently etches precise designs onto hard surfaces like wood, glass, or metal, offering a sleek and professional finish.
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Foil Stamping: Metallic or colored foil is pressed onto a product's surface using heat and pressure, creating a shiny, embossed effect ideal for packaging, stationery, and luxury items.
