If you’re interested in launching your own apparel line, it’s important to understand the basics of clothes printing. There are several different methods to choose from, and each has its pros and cons. Ultimately, which one you choose will depend on what type of shirts you want to print and the overall look you’re going for.
Heat Press
The heat press method is a great choice for those who like to be hands-on. It’s also quick and easy, making it a good option for small orders. However, the downside to this method is that it doesn’t work as well on all fabrics and tends to fade quickly over time. It’s also not ideal for printing all-over designs or using a lot of colors.
Screen Printing
Screen printing, or silkscreen printing, is a classic and trusted method for professional shirt printers. It guarantees high-quality results and allows for a variety of color options. If you’ve ever owned a shirt that’s been worn for years and still looks great, it was probably printed with this technique.
With this method, a stencil is first created in order to print your design on the fabric. Then, the stencil is placed on top of a mesh made from synthetic materials (usually nylon). Next, ink is sprayed over the mesh and spread evenly with a squeegee. This process is what creates the crisp, sharp images you see on most t-shirts. However, it’s expensive and time-consuming to use this method for large orders, and is less compatible with non-cotton fabrics.