When it comes to effective marketing, nothing beats apparel printing. Unlike billboards or commercials that may be forgotten or missed, a T-shirt can serve as an advertisement for your brand on a day to day basis. By printing your company logo on a high-quality shirt, you can be sure that your message is being seen by countless people each day.
T-shirts are also one of the most cost-effective forms of marketing for your brand. They can be worn by employees, handed out to customers and used as a giveaway item in your promotional campaign. Whether your business is new or established, the right print-on-demand garment printing method can set you up for success.
Understanding the different t-shirt printing techniques available is an important step in selecting the method that aligns with your branding and strategy. The most popular and most effective methods are screen printing, direct-to-garment (DTG) and Direct to Film transfers. Each of these printing methods has its own advantages and disadvantages, and each can be used to produce a variety of garment types from t-shirts to hoodies and hats.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is a process that involves creating a stencil of your desired design and then printing it onto a piece of fabric using inks and heat. It’s great for producing a wide range of items and can be used on a variety of materials from cotton to performance fabrics. The main drawback to screen printing is that each color needs a separate screen which can make production more expensive than other methods.
DTG Printing
DTG, or Direct-to-Garment printing, is the latest in apparel print technology. It uses specialized ink that is sprayed directly on the garment and absorbed into the fabric fibers, meaning your design won’t crack or peel over time. DTG is also perfect for producing small runs of custom clothing because it eliminates the need to create screens.
Waterbase Printing
Waterbase prints use a special ink that sits on top of the fabric, giving a soft feel to the print. This technique is great for white and light garments. Discharge Printing
Discharge printing resembles bleaching a bit, but it doesn’t damage the fabric the way traditional bleaching does. This technique is ideal for dark shirts and gives them an amazing, soft print.
Plastisol Printing
The plastisol printing method is the most traditional form of printing for t-shirts. The plastisol ink is thick and sits on top of the fabric, making it great for producing vibrant, full-color designs. The plastisol ink also provides a soft, smooth feel to the finished product.
Choosing the Minneapolis printing company is essential for success, as it is important to find a partner that offers a wide variety of materials, designs and printing options. The right partner will also offer high-quality print production and customer service that is responsive to your needs. A dedicated account manager who understands your needs will be able to respond quickly to any questions you may have.