Chapter 4: Printing Methods for Branded Apparel

Before you order apparel for your company, you need to consider the printing methods available for branded apparel.

This chapter covers the basics of apparel logo printing options and terminology, including colors, vector images, and resolution. We also cover the types of logo printing, such as screen printing, vinyl graphics, and embroidery. Additionally, we explore choosing a printer or service provider and what to consider when making your selection.

Basics of Apparel Logo Printing Options

Once you have a better idea of what apparel types you want, it's time to move forward with printing. Understanding the basic components of apparel logo printing can help you make the best choices for your project.

There are a few notable terms that you might frequently come across during discussions about logo printing:

• Colors: Logo printing professionals use specific names and acronyms to reference colors. For instance, you might encounter the phrase CMYK. This term refers to a particular color scheme — CMYK stands for cyan, magenta, yellow, and key. "Key" is another word for black, which is the approximate shade that forms when you combine the other three colors. CMYK is the color mode used for print designs, such as apparel.
• Vector images: Next, you might see the term vector images. This image type is usually used for printing logos on apparel and other merchandise because you can resize them easily. As you scale a vector image to a different size, it retains its original ratios without becoming pixelated or distorted.
• Resolution: Resolution is also an essential concept for logo printing. Your image's resolution refers to how many pixels are in 1 square inch of space. The better your resolution, the clearer your images are on apparel. This measurement can help you prepare high-quality prints no matter your apparel type.

Types of Logo Printing

Another important aspect of logo printing is its different types. Depending on your desired design, one type might suit you better than others. By familiarizing yourself with these options, you can make the best choice for your apparel decorations.

Here are some common types of logo printing for apparel:

• Screen printing: Screen printing is a popular choice for T-shirt prints and other clothing. It's ideal for printing big orders, making it an excellent option for large corporate apparel orders. Using a fine mesh screen, designers transfer a stenciled design of your logo or company name onto apparel. This method uses thick inks that lay on top of the shirt. For multicolored items, manufacturers create a stencil for each color to complete the full design. Overall, screen printing produces vivid colors and allows for easy reproduction.
• Vinyl graphics: Next, vinyl graphics are another option for your corporate apparel. During this process, a machine prints and cuts designs and letters on pieces of vinyl. Then, manufacturers use a heat press to transfer each vinyl piece to the desired material. The heat transfer creates dimensional and textured images. Companies often use vinyl graphics for smaller orders.
• Direct-to-garment: In direct-to-garment printing, manufacturers use inkjet technology to create your desired image and text. Your corporate logo or name is made using water-based ink, then sprayed onto the garment. The material fibers in your apparel absorb the ink, allowing for strong details and a polished final look. Direct-to-garment printing also supports a wide range of colors. However, this process can take longer than other styles because of its close attention to detail. Because of the slower pace, some professionals prefer other methods for larger orders.
• Heat transfer: You can also choose the heat transfer printing method for your branded apparel. This process prints your design on the material. Then, you apply the material to your desired garment using a heat press. The heat transfer can recreate small details and text. Some materials cannot use screen printing due to the nature of their material, such as nylon and silk. However, you can still use heat transfer for these materials, making them a versatile option.
• Embroidery: Embroidery is a classic choice for corporate apparel. Embroidery stitches a logo or text onto the fabric of your choice. Many companies embroider their logo or company name onto hats, jackets, shirts, and more. You can also use options like puff embroidery or sequins to add an additional pop to your design. Some manufacturers embroider designs onto a patch, then stitch the patch to apparel.
• Laser etching: Lastly, this method involves lasering an image on the top layer of your fabric. It renders a glossy and polished image of your design. Because of its more intensive nature, manufacturers commonly use laser etching for thicker materials, like fleece in outwear.

Your company design and preferences can influence your printing type selection. For instance, heat transfer could help you replicate the exact logo if you have a detailed design. But if you need a large order and have a strict deadline, screen printing can help you fulfill those needs.

A fulfillment service provider can also help you explore these types and suggest the best fit for your design goals.

Choosing a Printer or Service Provider

The last major component of logo printing is finding the right service provider for your project. A great printing provider will create high-quality apparel, meet your desired timelines, and provide strong customer service. Overall, they play a crucial role in your apparel development.

With so many printers available, selecting the best one for you can be tricky. These are a few aspects to consider when selecting a printing service provider:

• Deadlines: Most companies set a specific deadline for their corporate apparel. For instance, you might need the clothing before a local event or want your employees to wear the garments at the start of a new quarter. Whatever the reason, finding a provider that respects and works with your deadline is important. To narrow potential providers, you can ask them about typical project timeframes. Additionally, you can ask for an estimated schedule for your order. 
• Customer service: Next, positive customer service significantly impacts your project's success. Providers with dedicated customer support can answer your questions and suggest the best approaches for your apparel. Anything from their website's language to how they answer your questions can inform you of a provider's customer service approach.
• Available printing types: You might have a particular printing method in mind for your apparel. For example, you might want to use heat transfer because of small details on your logo. As you look for providers, be sure to ask whether they support your desired style.
• Reputation: You should also examine a provider's recent reviews before selecting them. You can browse online testimonials or speak to previous customers about the vendor's services. If you notice reviews about bad communication, missed deadlines, or other poor service indicators, you might consider a different provider instead.
• Previous work: Another way to choose a fulfillment service is by researching their past work. Their other projects can display their expertise and the specific techniques they use. You can likely find images on their website of past projects before deciding whether their other prints match your intentions for your apparel.

Design Custom Branded Apparel With SourcePromo

Now that you know more about the basics of apparel logo printing options and common types of logo printing for apparel, you can find a service provider for your project. When selecting a printing service provider, consider their customer service, available printing types, and previous work.

Contact us at SourcePromo today or browse our branded apparel.