Types of printing on T-shirts
Printed T-shirts are not only a creative present idea but also a useful promotional tool for businesses. These products are used as:
- souvenir products;
- clothes for everyday use;
- element of corporate style;
- handout or presentation material during various events.
For drawing images different types of the press on T-shirts are used. Each of them has its own characteristics. The choice of a suitable method is carried out taking into account the size of the circulation, the type of fabric and some other factors. There are different custom printing methods being used but we will discuss about those which we use for custom printing in Dallas.
Digital printing
This method is based on the innovative technology of direct image transfer. When applied, the drawing is transferred quickly, without the use of intermediate steps. It is most convenient to use it when working with single products or small batches.
The advantages of the digital printing method include:
- high quality of applied images;
- good detailing of drawings, resistance to UV radiation;
- the possibility of applying prints on any type of fabric.
The disadvantages of this method in comparison with other types of printing on T-shirts are:
- for such clothes, only hand washing can be used;
- prepress required;
- not suitable for large print runs.
sublimation printing
This method is used to print batches of up to one hundred thousand copies. Using this technology, you can apply an image only on synthetic fabrics of light shades. When using it, the image is first transferred to special paper. After that, it is transferred using a heat press to the product itself. Since the transfer in this case is carried out under the influence of high temperature, the ink evaporates and penetrates deep into the fibers of the fabric. This provides a high-quality, abrasion-resistant image. When applying this method, there are no restrictions on colors and image resolution. Its use provides a stable print. T-shirts with such images can be safely washed and ironed.
Since the transfer in this case is carried out under the influence of high temperature, the ink evaporates and penetrates deep into the fibers of the fabric. This provides a high-quality, abrasion-resistant image. When applying this method, there are no restrictions on colors and image resolution. Its use provides a stable print. T-shirts with such images can be safely washed and ironed.
silkscreen
This method, unlike other types of printing on T-shirts, allows you to obtain images with various effects – fluorescent patterns, three-dimensional ornaments, etc. To apply an image to a product, in this case, a mesh stretched over the frame, a stencil and ink are required.
The cost of applying a picture to one product depends on the size of the circulation – the larger it is, the lower the price will be. Usually this method is used to apply various logos and inscriptions on T-shirts. It is used in the manufacture of orders in small quantities.
Thermal Application
In this case, a color film is cut on the plotter, after which it is assembled into the desired pattern like an appliqué. A heat press is also used to fix the carrier on the product. This method is used to apply small logos and inscriptions to T-shirts. The method of iron-on compares favorably with some other types of printing on T-shirts in that it is suitable for applying images to clothes of any shade. The color of the fabric in this case does not degrade the quality and saturation of the image. The disadvantage of thermal application can be called the fact that this procedure is quite laborious and takes a lot of time.