Production Types
What Do All These Decoration/Production Types Mean?
When it comes to how we produce all the items you can add to your store, there are a lot of unique decoration types. DTG, Heat Transfer, and Screen Printing are just the beginning. But don’t worry! You don’t need to be an expert in manufacturing to successfully run your store.
The information on this page has been condensed and summarized so you can quickly and easily learn more about the production types you plan to use. If you want to know more or have any questions, feel free to contact us.
Having said that, it’s not a bad idea for you to have some basic familiarity with some of the more common design types. Understanding what’s involved in each process will help you choose the right method for the right items and save time for everyone involved.
Direct-to-Film
Direct-to-Film is a versatile and vibrant printing method that transfers high-quality designs onto various fabrics. Unlike DTG, which prints directly on fabric, Direct-to-filmprinting uses a special film transfer process. Designs are printed on a transparent film, coated with adhesive powder, then heat-pressed onto the garment. This approach allows for sharp, colorful images on materials that are typically challenging for other methods, such as polyester and nylon.
Pro’s
Direct-to-Film printing works on nearly any fabric, offering vibrant colors and sharp details. It’s ideal for small runs and complex designs, creating a high-quality finish even on challenging materials like polyester and nylon.
Limitations
While durable, Direct-to-film prints are slightly less breathable than DTG and may show wear with heavy use. It’s best for items that won’t face constant friction.
Things to Avoid
To preserve Direct-to-film prints, avoid high-heat washing and bleach. Also, steer clear of overly layered designs, which can affect print clarity.
Laser Engraving
Engraving is the process of etching a design into the surface of an item by using either a special motorized bit or laser. It is most commonly used on surfaces like plastic, wood, metal, leather and some fabrics.
Engraving can only design art with one color, and that color comes as a result of the depth, the burning (darkening) effect of the laser, or the oxidation (with pre-treated metals).
Pro’s
Classy, permanent form of personalization
Very cost-effective
Can be used to cut out specific shapes
Limitations
Only feasible with single-color designs
Darkness from laser varies by laser speed and depth
Things to Avoid
Low resolution (use Vector artwork!)
Multi-colored
Highly detailed graphics (small and intricate details are often excluded by laser)
Screen Printing
Screen Printing is one of the more complex decoration types, but what you need to know is that screen printing has a long set-up time and is best suited for bulk orders.
The setup time is longer because screen printing involves designing/producing anywhere between 1 and 9 screens, each of which is used to add one color or layer of the design at a time. Once you have these screens however, you have a specialized system that can print identical designs on a large number of items in a very short time.
Pro’s
Most cost-effective for large quantities
Able to print in various locations on the item
Artwork is more resistant to fading after washing
Can print fine detail
Limitations
Higher setup costs than other methods
Screens must be redesigned for each order
Limited to 9 colors or so. i.e. not for photo-quality prints
Things to Avoid
Low resolution
Art with more than 9 colors; can still be done, but there will be surcharges
Photos; trying to print photos often results in grainy, off-colored print. Stick to vectors!
Embroidery
Embroidery is a true and tried method for decorating accessories such as Bags, Hats, Blankets, Jackets, Aprons, Polos, and more. It uses colored thread, computer-guided stitching, and other helpful tools to embellish an object with a desired logo or message.
There are literally hundreds of thread colors to accommodate nearly any logo, however, most embroidery shops keep just a few dozen of the most popular colors on hand. So if you need a custom color, know that it will take longer than normal to order in those precise colors.
Pro’s
Permanent artwork/doesn’t fade
Process allows for single purchases
One-time setup fee (per artwork)
Can add designs to multiple locations on the same product
Limitations
Not ideal for full-color images
Artwork may “pucker” or curl over time
May alter the performance of waterproof fabrics
Things to Avoid
Low-resolution
Small fonts or fine detail
Gradient Images- every color in the design will be a separate thread, so any transitions will appear stark, not smooth and gradual.
Stickers
Stickers are used for a wide variety of purposes. We provide different varieties of stickers to meet your needs, including:
Regular sticker sheets
Reversible window stickers
Domed stickers
Sticker name badges
Other types of stickers may be available upon request. The sticker printing process is very unique, because stickers must be arranged in a way that utilizes the full width and length of the material that is printed.
Pro’s
Full-color artwork looks great
Colors typically resist fading for 3-5 years
Can usually be reused at least once
Can be placed on multiple surface types
Limitations
Quarter-inch white margin on full-color artwork*
Adhesive residue*
Things to Avoid
Low resolution
Small fonts or fine details (the standard minimum size for lettering is 1/4″ tall or 20-22 pt font size)