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Technology Used

Screen Printing

What is Screen Printing?

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Screen printing typically uses a fabric stretched tightly over a frame. Images are created by blocking parts of the screen using various techniques. Ink is forced through the open areas of the screen onto the surface of the object. A separate screen must be created for each colour to be printed and colours must be applied in passes allowing drying time between each. This is commonly used method of printing on promotional items and apparel such as T-shirts.

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Screen printing is more cost-efficient compared to digital printing because it can create large quantities of the design that you want at a faster turnaround. Higher volumes of identical graphics can also be mass produced using the screen printing process. This is what makes this the best printing option to use for larger orders.

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Preparing of Artwork
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Preparing the artwork in order for it to be used for screen printing:

  • Vector format only

  • Colour separation (Positives to be printed out for each colour)

  • Screen Coating and exposure

  • Positives registration

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Advantages
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  • Can brand up to A3 (420 mm x 297 mm) on certain items

  • Turn-around time is good

  • Shows small words and fine detail better than embroidery

  • Half-tone - there are some limitations
     

Limitations

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  • Maximum of 6 colours available (8 colours are possible under certain conditions)

  • Some items can't be screen printed

  • Some products are limited to 1 colour only

  • Texture of item will affect branding

  • Cannot brand on seams & zips

  • Minimum height for text in lowercase is 2m

Embroidery

What is Embroidery?

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A design stitched onto a material using a high-speed, computer-controlled sewing machine. Artwork must first be “digitised”, which is the specialised process of converting two-dimensional artwork into stitches or thread. The digitiser must re-create the artwork using stitches then it programs the sewing machine to sew a specific type of design, in a specific colour, with a specific type of stitch. This process is known as digitising. Embroidery is commonly used on logo patches, apparel, caps or hats.

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Preparing of Artwork
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Preparing the artwork in order for it to be used for embroidery:

  • Any high-res image format

  • Digitised using Wilcom software package

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Advantages
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  • Adds a more prestigious look to the garment

  • Small quantities are often more cost-effective than Screen Printing

  • The embroidery will not fade or wash away

  • Certain items must be embroidered - some items cannot be screen printed (E.g. fleece, certain moisture management garments and synthetic garments)
     

Limitations
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  • Biggest embroidery 350 x 350 mm

  • Size of the main embroidery

  • Minimum height for text is 5mm

  • Framing the embroidery (pockets on shirts)

  • Embroidered above pocket (approx. 20/30mm from the pocket depending on the product)

  • (Remove pocket, embroider pocket, then resew pocket)

  • Long turn-around time for large orders

  • Fine detail will not brand correctly

  • Limited Thread colours

  • Quality of embroidery will vary based on material of the product

  • Drimac / 600D / Poly Cotton smallest - 4 mm

  • Any stretch material no smaller than 7 / 8 mm

  • Have a lookout for logos that are the same colour as the garment (it will not be visible unless requested)

  • No embroidery with padding or insulation

  • No embroidery over zips (inside / outside) or framing
     

Alternative Options
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  • Screen printing

 

Personalised Naming

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  • Individual names per item will cause longer turn-around times

Sublimation

What is Sublimation?

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Dye Sublimation is a digital print process whereby artwork is printed on a coated paper and then heat transferred onto specialised substrates or directly sublimated onto specialised substrates.

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The most exciting part is that you get to design your branding from beginning to end, in the apparel world, sublimation is a game-changer.

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Customise any garment for almost any event - whether it be for outdoor or indoor activities. Sublimation is commonly used on field garments such as golfers, soccer jerseys, basketball tops, netball uniforms, and even rugby socks!

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Preparing the Artwork

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  • High-res image, preferably 300dpi

  • Artwork is printed directly onto vinyl

  • A clear resin is then placed onto the printed vinyl cut-out
     

Advantages
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  • Longevity

  • Customisation of numbers, letters and graphics

  • No limitation in colour

  • Build your design from end to end

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Limitations
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  • Variable turn-around time - dependent on the volume

Direct to Film

What is Direct to Film?

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DTF branding, or Direct to Film branding, is a printing technique that transfers designs onto fabric or other materials with precision and vibrant colour.

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Preparing the Artwork

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  • Provide artwork in vector format or high-resolution non-vector format (300 DPI)

  • Ensure non-vector artwork has no unnecessary colour backgrounds
     

Advantages
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  • Detailed Prints: Accepts high-resolution non-vector formats (300 DPI) or vector formats, allowing for high-quality prints with no unnecessary colour backgrounds

  • Vibrant Colours: Full-colour printing ensures vibrant and accurate reproduction

  • Versatility: Suitable for a variety of products, including apparel and promotional items

  • Handles small text with a minimum height of 0.8mm and outlines with a minimum line width of 0.5mm, ensuring clarity and precision in intricate designs

  • Seam Placement: Artwork can be applied 10-15mm away from seams, which ensures durability and quality in various product types

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Limitations
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  • Small Text & Outline Requirements: Minimum height of 0.8mm for small text and 0.5mm for outlines may limit the level of detail that can be effectively reproduced

  • Seam-Free Application: Placement restrictions to ensure durability and quality

  • Non-Editable Bitmap Art: Bitmap artwork cannot be altered in terms of wording, colours, or background, which can be restrictive for certain design adjustments
     

Alternative Options
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  • Screen printing
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Personalised Naming

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  • Personalized naming is possible, provided that the line thickness is a minimum of 2.25mm, which may vary based on the font type required

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