Having a logo on clothing is a simple and effective method to promote your brand. It is particularly useful in the case of stores, teams, or events. It takes only this little step to change a simple shirt or hood into a mobile advertisement.
The achievement of the logo on clothes is based on a few fundamental factors. The printing method matters a lot Pick the right printing method. Prepare your logo file the right way. Choose the best clothes for what you need.
This guide will show you every step. Along with us, you will learn how to print your logo on clothes and the outcome you will be pleased with. We are Clothing Manufacturer Ltd, and we have made dreams come true for over a thousand brands, so you can count on us.
Key Printing Methods: A Guide
Selection of a suitable printing technique is the first and most vital step. These techniques have their own advantages and disadvantages and different styles, sizes of orders, and materials that may suit you best. You will be able to get the best value and quality if you are familiar with these choices.
Many professional services as they make every model of custom branded apparel available. This is a table of the most common methods to make your choice easier.
| Printing Method | Best For | Feel/Texture | Durability | Cost-Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Large orders (24+), simple logos with few colors, merchandise, uniforms. | Slightly raised, durable ink layer. Can be made softer. | Very High | Very cost-effective for large batches. High setup cost for small orders. |
| Direct-to-Garment (DTG) | Full-color photos, complex logos, small orders, one-off prints. | Soft, breathable feel as ink soaks into the fabric. | High | Cost-effective for small runs and complex designs. Less so for bulk. |
| Heat Transfer | Simple logos, team names/numbers, polyester sportswear. | Smooth, plastic-like layer on top of the fabric. | Medium | Good for small, simple orders. Not ideal for large, complex designs. |
| Embroidery | A premium, professional look. Polos, hats, jackets, and thick fabrics. | Textured, raised stitching with a high-end feel. | Extremely High | Higher cost per item, but adds significant value. Priced by stitch count. |
Screen Printing
It is a screen printing technique that pushes ink through a mesh screen onto a fabric. It is the number one method for bulk orders as it is the fastest and most durable way. Each color present in your logo must have its own screen. It means that there is a setup fee. That’s why it is more suitable for larger orders.
We provide a variety of own services like screen printing. Try special options for a unique, raised feel. For a 3D effect, check out The Ultimate Guide to Puff Screen Printing.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG)
To comprehend DTG printing, think about a printer for fabric. The machine sprays water-based ink straight onto the shirt. The ink is absorbed by the fibers. It is ideal for full-color photos or logos with many colors on them. There is no need for setup costs per color, therefore, it is wonderful for small orders or one shirt only.
Heat Transfer
Heat transfer implies printing a design on a special paper called transfer vinyl. The design is cut out and put on the clothing with a heat press. This method works well for simple, bold graphics like names and numbers that would be on team jerseys. It also works great on fabrics such as polyester that can be tricky for other methods.
Embroidery
Embroidery isn’t printing, yet it is one of the essential ways of putting a logo on clothes. A machine uses thread to stitch your logo right into the fabric. This gives a premium, textured look and it lasts a very long time. It is the first choice for professional items like polos, hats, and jackets. The pricing is based on the stitch count, not the colors.
From Logo File to Great Print
A great print starts long before the shirt even goes onto the press. Making the design file correct from the start is the most significant thing. It ensures your final product looks sharp, professional, and just how you want it, which is what it’s all about!
From our experience, the most common issue is poor quality artwork. A blurry file results in a blurry print. Follow this checklist to make sure your file is ready for production.
Vector vs. Raster
Your printer will prefer a vector file almost all the time. Vector files (.AI, .EPS, .SVG) are mathematical paths. They can be sized without any quality loss; you can use a small chest logo or a giant banner, for example.
Raster files (.JPG, .PNG) are made of pixels. For example, enlarging a raster image would make it blurry and pixelated. In case you need to use a raster file, use high quality (at least 300 DPI) and the size you want it printed.
Getting Your Colors Right
Computer screens usually produce colors with RGB (Red, Green, Blue). On the other hand, printers typically rely on CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black). The color systems might not be matching all the time.
To ensure that your brand colors are consistent throughout, we employ the Pantone Matching System (PMS). PMS attributes each color with a particular code. That code guarantees that the exact shade of blue of your brand will be used every print run.
Sizing and Placement
When it comes to your logo on clothes, think of where you wish it to be printed. The standard locations are the regular spots like left chest, full front, upper back, and the sleeve.
Some standard sizes are as follows:
* Left Chest: 3.5 to 4.5 inches wide.
* Full Front: 10 to 12 inches wide.
* Upper Back: 10 to 12 inches wide.
* Sleeve: 2.5 to 3.5 inches wide.
Make sure to always consider the smallest shirt in your order when deciding on a print size. An XL shirt can fit a big design, but a small shirt may not have enough space.
Sending Your File
Before sending your file, you should check two things. The first one is, if your logo has any text, convert it to outlines first. This action will turn the letters into shapes that do not require your specific font to be embedded. Second, pack your file to include all linked images and fonts, just in case.
The 5-Step Process to Print a Logo
Making custom clothing is not a difficult process. If you follow these five straightforward steps, you will be able to go from an idea to a final product without any problems.
Step 1: Choose Your Clothes
First of all, decide on the type of clothing you need. For example, you are apparently not going for soft t-shirts if you are making tough workwear for your team, or stylish hoodies for a new clothing line. The material will be based on its purpose, while style will be the other factor. You can choose from the various products on the market ranging from basic tees to custom hoodies with your logo, hats, and jackets. A standout item can be a puff print hoodie that can have a visual impact.
Step 2: Complete Your Design & Choose Printing Method
Then, you will use the information from above to complete your artwork and select the most suitable printing method. Ensure that your logo file is in a suitable format (the vector is the best). The printing method should match your design’s complexity, the order size, and the kind of clothes you have chosen.
Step 3: Select a Printing Partner
Search for a printing partner that has transparent pricing, customer-oriented communication, and a great portfolio. A reliable partner will take you through the process and answer any questions you have. Be sure to verify their reviews and ask to see examples of previous work to confirm that they are capable of producing the quality you expect.
Step 4: Review Your Digital Mock-up (Proof)
Before any of the printing starts, you will be sent a digital mock-up, which is also known as a proof. This is a chance for you to double-check everything. We always tell our clients to scrutinize everything. They should check the spelling, colors, logo size, and placement on the shirt. Once you give the go-ahead on the proof the order can be processed.
Step 5: Production and Delivery
Once you approve the proof, the printing of your order will begin. The common turnaround time is about 10 to 14 business days. However, many companies provide a rush service for early delivery. Your clothes will then be delivered to your doorstep.
Cost Factors: How Much Does It Cost?
The price of your logo printed on clothes is a function of a few different factors. If you understand these factors, you can plan a budget that is realistic and also get a clearer picture of the quotes that you receive.
- Garment Quality: A basic, budget-friendly t-shirt is likely to be less expensive than a designer, brand-name polo or jacket.
- Order Quantity: This is the factor that weighs heaviest. The per-item price goes down significantly with increased order volume. Bulk orders of 50 or more units can often reduce the per-item cost by 30-50% compared to a single-item order.
- Printing Method: For bigger batches, screen printing is less expensive while DTG is cheaper for small orders with numerous colors. In general, embroidery is pricier than printing.
- Number of Colors: In screen printing, every color you use in your design needs separate ink tanks and setups, which add to the total cost.
- Number of Print Locations: For instance, getting a print on the front back and a sleeve will cost you more than a single location print.
While bulk orders bring the best possible value, there are companies that focus on low-quantity orders. For instance, many custom clothing products are available at a minimum quantity of one and so the cost of each tee will be higher.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the best file format for my logo?
A vector file (.AI, .EPS, .SVG) is always the best choice. It can be resized without losing quality. If you only have a raster file (.PNG, .JPG), it must be high quality. Aim for at least 300 DPI at the final print size to avoid a blurry result.
Can I print a logo on dark-colored clothes?
Yes, absolutely. For screen printing on dark clothes, we first print a layer of white ink called an “underbase.” This makes sure the colors on top appear bright and true. DTG printers also use white ink for dark fabrics. This extra step may slightly increase the cost.
What is the minimum order quantity?
This depends on the printer and the printing method. Screen printing usually has a minimum order of 24 to 48 pieces because of the setup involved. Methods like DTG and heat transfer have no setup, so they can often be used to make a single item.
How long does it take to get my custom clothes?
Standard production time is typically 10 to 14 business days after you approve your final design proof. This does not include shipping time. Most companies offer rush services for an extra fee if you have a tight deadline.
How do I make sure my logo print lasts long?
Picking a good printing partner and the right method is key. Professionally done screen printing, DTG, and embroidery are all very durable and made to last. To care for your printed clothes, wash them inside-out in cold water and avoid high heat in the dryer. This will keep your logo looking great for years.
