How to Go About Apparel Printing
When it comes to apparel printing, you have a lot of options. You can choose to use digital or traditional printing methods. There are a few steps that you must take to make your apparel printing successful. Below is a list of some of the most common options:
Before starting your apparel printing project, you must have a design. To start, you must use an image editing software like Illustrator, Photoshop, or Spark. After you have a design, you need to use AnaRIP. This software allows you to control the image placement and ink settings on your garment. You then send the image to your Ricoh direct-to-garment printer. Once you’ve finished, you need to load the garment into the printer. Choose either CMYK or PMS ink. For light-colored garments, you can print with CMYK. However, for dark-colored garments, you need two passes of CMYK ink.
Direct-to-garment printing is a method that uses specially formulated water-based inks to print onto garments. The print is durable and is made from the fibers of the fabric. This method of apparel printing can also print unlimited colors in a single design. It saves you time and allows you more creative freedom. The method is not suitable for garments that are sensitive to sunlight. Once you’ve decided on the right method for your project, you need to take into consideration how you want to use it.
Personalized printed apparel is a great way to increase your business’s brand recognition. Giving out a free giveaway is one way to boost your marketing capacity. People love free things, and if your giveaway is a t-shirt, chances are they will be wearing it. That means you’ll be more visible and more memorable to them. The services of the best custom print shop in Tacoma can surely cater to any budget, design specifications, or customization parameters.
Screen-printed clothing can be costly and time-consuming. Short-run apparel printing means that you need fewer than 50 shirts. This can range from one shirt to 48, depending on the size of your shop. The set-up costs and the labor to screen print these t-shirts are often more than you can afford. Short-run garments have become a trend in fashion, and this requires an affordable and high-quality solution.
Sublimation printing is another method of apparel printing. With sublimation, the print is made of synthetic fibers. Compared to thermal transfer printing, the effect is less vibrant, but it is much more expensive. The process requires a dedicated printer and specialty inks, which can cost $300 to $500. Another option is dye-sublimation, which uses heat to bond the dye to the fibers of the garment. Aside from clothing, this process also requires a synthetic substrate. Cotton t-shirts are too delicate for sublimation printing.
Whether you’re looking for a soft-hand shirt or a vibrant color, screen-printing is a great option. Water-based inks are great for t-shirts, and it is even possible to print over seams and edges. The process is more expensive, but it’s worth it if you’re only printing on 100% cotton garments. When choosing your design, consider how much customization you want and which type of apparel you’d like to make.