The process of turning an idea from a design to fashion is an incredible experience. This way, it helps anyone who aspires to create clothes with prints. You may either be establishing a brand or ordering for a team. But either way, knowing the various options is very important.
We will explore the prevalent fabric imprint option that the screen printing and Direct-to-Garment (DTG) are. You’ll find it very helpful and easy to determine the best printing method for your project by reading this article. We will include the tips on how to develop your design, too. To top it off, you’ll learn where to find the ideal manufacturer to partner with for your clothes. This is your all-in-one custom apparel training.
Basic Knowledge of Printing Processes
In order to take your print clothing project to the next level, it is necessary to learn the key printing methods. These methods each have their advantages. The decision on which one to use is determined by your design, order volume, however, the fabric type also matters. Let’s go through the typical methods.
Screen Printing: The Sturdy and Reliable Standard
Screen printing is a method for applying ink on clothes using a mesh screen. It needs a unique screen for each color. This method that has been used for years creates an ink layer that is both thick and bright. The layer has a good long-lasting effect.
- Ideal for: Big orders (more than 50 items), simple designs in 1-4 colors, and dark shirts with bright colors.
- Pros: Durability, low cost per unit for bulk orders, and very vivid colors.
- Cons: Not suitable for pictures, startup costs for small orders are high.
Do you wish to discover more about this traditional technique? Take a look at our comprehensive guide to screen printing.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG): Meticulously-Crafted, Multi-Color Designs
DTG is a method that printing a design on fabric like a printer works. The machine gets the image print done with water-based inks on clothes. This enables you to create highly detailed designs with the use of a plethora of colors.
- Ideal for: Small orders, many colors or photo details included in the design, and projects with no restrictions in quantity.
- Pros: Impeccable details, unlimited color choices, and soft touch on the shirt.
- Cons: Colors are not as vivid on dark shirts without the white base layer. It is not very economical for large runs. It is less durable in comparison to screen printing.
In the last five years, DTG has experienced remarkable advancements. The new inks and machines not only produce better colors but also increase the resistance of garments to washing. So many jobs are still easier than with DTG.
Heat Transfer: Go With the Flow
This method is to print a design onto a special transfer material. Then, you just need to heat press the design onto clothes. This method consists of heat transfer vinyl (HTV) and plastisol transfers.
- Ideal for: Simple graphics, names and numbers on sports jerseys, and small custom orders.
- Pros: Great for simple shapes and text. Affordable for very small amounts.
- Cons: The print can feel stiff on the shirt. May crack or fade over time with many washes.
Sublimation Printing: Incredible All-Over, Edge-to-Edge Prints
Temperature and pressure are the means of sublimation. The heat transforms the dye into vapor. The vapor then interacts with polyester filament. This process permanently colors the fabric with the ink. In fact, it becomes an inseparable part of the garment.
- Ideal for: All-over prints, sportswear, and items made of 100% polyester.
- Pros: The print is permanent and will not crack or fade. It breathes well and creates amazing edge-to-edge designs.
- Cons: Only works on polyester or fabrics with lots of polyester. Not good for 100% cotton.
Top makers often display their skills in intricate all-over sublimation printing services. They definitely create wow effects with their talent and ability to set large designs on performance wear.
Picking the Right Printing Method: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Choosing the correct printing process for a new clothing line can seem tricky. This comparison chart helps you digest the major points of each technology. It will serve you well if you remember your project needs and preferences.
| Feature | Screen Printing | Direct-to-Garment (DTG) | Heat Transfer | Sublimation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For Volume | High (50+) | Low (1-50) | Low to Medium | Any |
| Color Detail | Good | Excellent | Good | Excellent |
| Cost at Scale | Low | High | Medium | Medium |
| Durability | Excellent | Good | Fair to Good | Excellent |
| Fabric Types | Versatile (Cotton, Blends) | Primarily Cotton | Versatile | Polyester Only |
| Feel on Garment | Thicker layer of ink | Soft, breathable | Varies (can be stiff) | No feel (part of fabric) |
In the simplest of terms: for a 100-unit order with two colors that are durable, the only choice is screen printing. When one t-shirt with a full-color printed photo is needed, you should go with DTG.
Upgrade Your Clothing Line: Specialty Printing Techniques of Fancy Clothes
Printing can sometimes be a little bit flat. However, there are incredible and artistic methods that will make your brand remarkable. These fashion technologies are time and money investments that give you returns multiplied.
Puff Printing: Making Your Designs Stand Out 3D Effect
Puff printing is an ink with a special additive that makes the design puffy. This additive expands with heat. This printing method creates a raised, “puffed” 3D texture on the garment. It is an element that people can both see and touch.
The effect is now very much in demand in modern streetwear. It fits well for extravagant text, plain logos, and graphic parts on hoodies and T-shirts. The 3D effect has the job of enunciating the graphics.
This idea requires precision. You can learn from the best in The Ultimate Guide to Puff Screen Printing. In addition, you can see how we apply it as a specialized puff print hoodie manufacturer.
Detailed Guide on How to Get Clothing Printed
Now that you learned the available methods, let’s go through the whole procedure. Go step by step, and turn your dream into a real one. This well-structured reference will assist you in running successfully your print clothing project.
- Step 1: Finalize Your Design
This is the step of utmost importance. You should ensure that your artwork is ready for printing. According to our experience, the most common reason for delay is an unfit design file. Always use a vector format (.AI, .EPS) or a high-quality raster file (300 DPI at full size). A phone screenshot that is out of focus will not give a good result in the print.
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Step 2: Choose Your Garment
Select a t-shirt, a hoodie, or any other clothes that you would like to use. Think about the fabric content (cotton vs. polyester). Consider the weight of the material and the overall fit. Once you choose the garment, you will have a certain look and feel of your printed clothes. -
Step 3: Select Your Printing Method
Use the comparison table above to decide the best way. Your option should be based on your design, order quantity, and garment choice. -
Step 4: Find a Printing Partner
Do research on different clothing makers or local print shops. Partnering with a company that has a strong portfolio and good reviews is the way to go. We will go further into this in the next section. -
Step 5: Submit Your Tech Pack & Get Quote
Provide your partner with all project specifications. This will cover such items as your design files, garment choices, size breakdown, quantities, and print placement. A professional process will be a reason to deem a good partner, who is like an apparel manufacturer that prioritizes customer satisfaction, that’s why the company will have a transparent and multi-step process from quote to prototype to final delivery. -
Step 6: Approve Mockup/Sample
Always request a digital mockup or a physical sample before the start of full production. This is your last chance to check for any errors in spelling, color, or placement.
How to Select the Right Print Clothing Partner
Your printing partner matters as much as your design. A really good one guarantees a smooth process with high quality, and a bad one will make you pay both in time and money. This list of guidelines will come in handy in your quest for a trustworthy supplier to meet all your clothing printing needs.
- Portfolio and Experience: Do they have the work samples that are specific to what you are looking for? If they have already executed the style you had in mind, this should be taken to be a good sign.
- Communication and Support: Are they quick to get back to you? Do they respond to your queries in a clear and helpful way? It is the good communication that will prevent the problems.
- Capabilities: Are they capable of the specific printing method you want on the garments you are looking for? Some partners have great T-Shirt & Apparel Printing catalogs with many options.
- Turnaround Times: Can they meet the deadline for your order? Inquire their standard production time and if they do rush orders.
- Pricing and Minimums: Is their price policy transparent and user-friendly? Check their minimum order quantities (MOQs) to make sure it fits your project size.
- Reviews and Testimonials: See what others say about their quality, reliability, and customer service.
Finding the perfect partner is a key step to your brand’s success. At Clothing Manufacturer Ltd we consider ourselves a trustworthy partner to all brands regardless of their size.
Conclusion: Realizing Your Ambition
Bringing your thoughts to custom print clothes is a fulfilling journey. With an understanding of the basic printing methods, you will be able to pick the one that is right for your art and budget. Sticking to a clear guide has always been of great help. A trustworthy partner will help finish the product with a professional look. You have the ability now to actualize your creative vision and do it with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Printing on Clothing
1. What is the most durable type of clothing print?
For the overall durability and the longevity of washing the screen printing is the gold standard. It cures the ink and forms a strong flexible bond with the fabric. Sublimation is also uniquely durable because the ink becomes part of the polyester fabric itself. As a result, it is not going to crack, peel, or fade.
2. Can I print on dark-colored clothing?
Absolutely yes. Screen printing is the best method to use for dark garments because the inks are opaque. DTG printing, on the other hand, has a process of putting a white base layer under the colored design, so the fabric is not dulled by dark colors. This way, all the colors of your design will be vibrant.
3. What’s the difference between DTG and DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing?
DTG places ink directly onto the garment’s fabric. DTF however, is a new technology. Initially, it prints the design onto a special film. The film is then heat-pressed onto the clothing. DTF is often more versatile overall. It can be used on various fabrics, including polyester and blends, with bright outcomes. However, DTG is the best option for the cotton material.
4. How much does it cost to print a design on a t-shirt?
The cost largely varies depending on four factors. The printing method selected, number of colors in the design (for screen printing), order quantity (the more you order the less the item price), and the blank garment quality itself are the factors. A design printed on one full-color DTG t-shirt can range from $20-$30. A run of one hundred single-color screen-printed shirts could be under $10 each.
5. How should I prepare my artwork file for printing?
The best outcome is if your artwork is a vector file. Use formats like .AI, .EPS, or .SVG. Vector files have the incredible advantage of not losing quality when enlarged. If you must use a raster file (like .PNG or .PSD), it should be at least 300 DPI. The picture should be at the exact size you want it printed and you should always convert text into outlines or curves to eliminate font issues.
