T-shirt customization – the 5 most used methods

When it comes to t shirt printing in Dallas, we have an extensive palette. Techniques have evolved a lot from one decade to another, a fact that popularized this type of business. There are more and more printing methods: depending on how the ink is arranged, its type, thermal agents, etc. In this article we will evaluate the 5 most common methods for printing t-shirts, with benefits and disadvantages. Stay tuned!

T-shirt customization – the 5 most used methods

These are the most popular methods. Depending on the profile of your business, the number of t-shirts printed daily, but also other factors, you can choose from the following:

1.Screenprinting

This is one of the most used methods, especially for mass printing.

The technique requires you to create a template, which is then held in place by a screen. The screen is usually made of nylon mesh.

Arrange the template, which is held by the nylon mesh. A waterproof material will block the negative space you want to project. The negative space is the only part permeable to paint. The ink is then flooded into the screen.

For each design, the template will change (so, as I said, it works well for industrial quantities)

A minus would be the high cost, if we are talking about a small amount of T-shirts.

2 Direct to Garment (DTG)

This technique is relatively new in the industry. DTG is the technique we also use at Shirt Printing Dallas. Unlike screenprinting, DTG allows the ink to penetrate the layers of the fabric, not its surface. T-shirts will thus have a longer lifespan. The finish does not feel to the touch, and the appearance is professional. It is the ideal method for limited productions. It is made for both light and dark t-shirts. The only disadvantage is, perhaps, the high price of a DTG printer.

Sublimation

Have you ever come across a t-shirt with prints all over it? Well, probably the process used was sublimation. Sublimation works best when used for allover and large size printing. This method can turn the entire t-shirt into a great piece of art. With this coloring process, you can make, for example, a galaxy, repeating the pattern. But you have to keep in mind that special textures are needed, with 100% polyester. Although the result is spectacular, a disadvantage is the fact that, for sublimation, only synthetic fabrics are used.

Thermal printing (by pressing)

This is a simple method that saves resources and time. It includes a design printed on a special paper called transfer paper.

 The heat softens the paint on the paper until it becomes one with the fabric. Ideal for complex models, it also offers a long life of the t-shirt. The disadvantage is that it does not work so well on dark fabrics, because of the translucent dye. 

Vinyl Cutting

In this process, a special, soft vinyl is cut into shapes or designs, then transferred to a T-shirt, using the heat press method.

The vinyl cutter offers the option of using different layers to print different colors of a design.

Vinyl works well for small logos, words. Conversely, it is not suitable for large printed areas, as the t-shirt may lose its flexibility.

Keep in mind that each method comes with its own list of benefits and drawbacks. Whatever your t-shirt printing needs, you’re sure to find a method to suit – whether you’re looking for an inexpensive transfer at home or a more professional setup.