In the world of apparel printing, screen printing is the classic method used to create custom designs. It involves pushing plastic-based ink through a mesh to transfer the design onto the fabric. Screen printing is the most traditional method, but advances in digital technology have made it a faster and easier process. The benefits of screen printing are obvious, including a more detailed image on darker fabrics.
When you choose to use this process, you must be sure to choose the right fabric color and make sure it complements or contrasts your design. Choosing the wrong fabric color can turn a small design invisible. It is important to check color calibration and file format before sending the design. Most design files are created in a vector format, such as EPS, AI, or PDF. PDF is the most popular file format, and it is available in almost all design programs.
While screen printing is effective for many types of garments, it does not always produce the best quality prints. Screen printing can leave a rough texture on a shirt that can irritate skin and are less comfortable to wear than DTG. The thickness of the inks used in screen printing can make or break a design.
Heat transfers are another great option for decorating garments on the spot. Imagine that six high school wrestling teams are attending a tournament and you want to sell apparel with the logo of the tournament and the list of the students participating. With a heat press, you can transfer your design to plain garments and sell them to attendees.
Direct-to-Garment printing is a new way to decorate garments. This method uses special ink to spray the ink into the fibers of the garment. This method creates durable prints, and saves time and money. It allows for unlimited colors and design variations. In addition, DTG garments should not develop cracks, which are common with screen-printed designs.
With the new technology available today, DTG printers can now print on a wider range of fabrics than ever before. The most popular fabric for DTG printing is cotton. But the type of fabric will depend on the intended use. For example, sports jerseys are often made of polyester, while socks are typically made of cotton. The color of the fabric will also affect the results of a digital print. If you are looking for apparel printing, choose a Tacoma printing and embroidery company that will provide your company with the quality apparel it needs to get the job done.