Hi, friends!
Our passion for the art of t-shirt printing determines our commitment to using the most efficient and high-quality methods. Today we are pleased to tell you about printing on fabrics. This information will be useful to anyone who prefers clothing with images or prints. We understand that this topic may seem complicated, but let's break it down using simple language.
Printing technologies
At the initial stage of our creative journey, we studied and tested different methods, taking inspiration from Western brands, to find our ideal printing method. Eventually, we decided on the optimal method, which we use in 95% of cases. But we'll talk about it in more detail later.
For now, let's take a look at the main methods of printing on fabrics that are available today.
Sublimation printing
A method of applying an image to a fabric in which special ink is converted to gas at high temperature and pressure. This gas penetrates the fibers of the fabric and becomes part of the material, forming a bright and durable image. This method is used to print sportswear.
Pros:
- Vibrant and rich colors.
- Durability and color fastness over time.
Cons:
- Limitations in the choice of fabrics: high polyester content is required.
- The need for special equipment.
We do not use sublimation printing because it requires the use of synthetic fabrics with a high polyester content, and we prefer to work with natural cotton materials.
Thermal transfer
A special film is used to apply the desired design. After that, the film is applied to the fabric and the image is applied with a heated press. Previously, this method was considered unreliable due to the possibility of design peeling off, but modern equipment allows for high-quality results.
The main disadvantage is that the image may look like a sticker on the fabric, not allow air to pass through, and wrinkle.
Pros:
- Fast layout preparation and the ability to produce single runs.
- Can be used on various types of fabrics.
- Allows you to create bright and saturated colours.
Cons:
- Unreliability of results when using outdated equipment and materials, which can lead to pattern detachment.
- If there are a lot of details in the design, the pattern may look like a continuous layer of film, which is not always comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.
Currently, our design ideas are not combined with this method, we do not use it.
Silkscreen printing
A printing method that was invented in China in the early seventeenth century.
It got its name from the use of silk sieve as a basis for applying ink to fabric.
The process begins with the image being created on a special sieve, where holes allow the ink to pass through only in the right places to form the design. Then the paint is applied to the sieve and transferred to the fabric using a squeegee (a special spatula). After that, the fabric is heat-treated in an oven to fix the paint.
Pros:
- Vivid and consistent colors.
- High image detail.
- Can print on a variety of materials, including textiles and paper.
Cons:
- Only large runs due to the complexity of the process.
- Requires qualified personnel and expensive equipment.
- Difficulty in preparing the layout.
And this is what you need! We prefer to use this method. The drawings are soft, matte, do not rub off and do not lose color even if the T-shirt is worn for a long time. If you are launching your own clothing brand, we strongly recommend choosing silk screen printing.
Digital printing
Digital printing on T-shirts is a method where the image is directly applied to the fabric without the use of intermediate media. For this purpose, special textile inks are used to create bright and durable prints. The design is printed directly onto the fabric using a textile printer. The process is completed by fixing the ink under high temperature.
Pros:
- High image detail.
- Ability to print one T-shirt at a time.
- Easy to prepare the layout.
Cons:
- High cost of production.
- The image has a slight gloss.
- Short-lived on light fabrics, fades quickly when washed.
We use this method in 5% of our work, especially for some special orders and only on dark fabrics.
Embroidery
A unique method of decorating fabrics that uses needles and threads to create images, patterns and text on the surface of the material. A special machine sews the threads through the fabric to form patterns and designs. This adds texture and volume to the embroidered elements, making the image expressive and original.
Pros:
- Durability: embroidery creates durable patterns on fabric that does not lose its properties and color after washing.
- Beauty and aesthetics: adds a special charm and individuality to the product.
Cons:
- High cost: requires additional equipment and skills.
- Design limitations: For complex and detailed designs, it may not be the best method due to limitations in the technique.
We are happy to use this technology in the production of our warm clothes and caps. Minimalistic design that is endowed with meaning. The perfect combination of technology and idea.
Printing method, what's the result
Remember that the choice of how to apply drawings to clothes plays an important role, it affects the:
Durability determines how long the print will retain its appearance and color saturation after washing and wearing.
The quality of the workmanship is important to ensure that the details of the print are crisp and rich, emphasizing the style and aesthetics.
Environmental friendliness ensures that the clothes will not cause skin irritation or allergic reactions due to the use of safe materials.
Comfort provides freedom of movement, does not restrict, does not squeeze and maintains a comfortable microclimate for the skin.
Now you are more aware of this issue.
Also remember the importance of proper clothing care: don't forget that it's not a good idea to wash your favorite T-shirt and winter boots at the same time!😂
We hope that you found the information interesting and useful.
If you have any questions or would like to share your opinion, feel free to contact us in the comments.
We are always happy to communicate and are ready to help!
With best regards
Split be free
Comentários