When printing for bulk orders, you may follow a few printing methods. But the most common ones include DTG (direct to garment), Screen printing, and transfer printing. However, each method has different benefits depending on its approach. Several factors need consideration before you decide which suits your requirements.
With the onset of new technology, personalize your garments according to your liking and requirements. With these suggested printing methods, you can get your t-shirts printed in bulk in the most convenient way possible. Below, you will find a comprehensive explanation of different printing methods, including their approach, duration, and fabric material used. Read on!
Screen printing is fun
Among other techniques, screen printing is prevalent. It gets established and one of the earliest techniques associated with printing. The method dates back to ancient times, but screen printing became popular during the 20th century. Screen printing is outstanding when you have to print t-shirts in bulk.
Screen printing is popularly called Silkscreen printing. Screens are used on the t-shirts to work in ink in this method. It is practical and versatile and provides results with tactility and quality. Since the fabric absorbs the ink in-depth, the results are bright, vivid and also offer long-term durability.
Variations of screen printing
Jointly, with silkscreen printing, several variations are used. The combination brings results that are creative, unique, and bold.
Puff printing: In this procedure, similar processes and setups get utilized as regular silkscreen printing. But puff printing produces brilliant 3D results. Plastisol-based ink helps in the technique; however, a singular foaming agent reacts with heat.
Gel printing: Gel printing provides a high-density gel layer on the design. The result is 3D, ensuring the design stands out. The method helps to give special effects to your design without the complexity of other time-consuming and complicated processes. The gel printing technique is versatile, eco-friendly, and perfect for long-term use. Several colors can produce exciting designs.
Crackle finish: In this technique, the ink breaks after drying. The result is a stunning, cracked effect.
Glow in the dark finish: As the name suggests, the ink glows in the dark in this variation of screen printing. Like authentic screen printing, the process follows the same steps but uses darker shades for ink.
Glow in the dark has become a popular variation of screen printing used by event and marketing agencies. After the printing, the design has a greyish shade. However, once the lights are off, it’ll glow! The technique is a great way to bring attention to detail.
Digital Apparel printing (DTG) is interesting
DTG is a particularly new printing technique, and in recent years has also become easily accessible. The method works very similarly to paper printers. The ink is directly used on the garment, as done in paper printing. Digital apparel printing can be called Direct to garment, but you may use other names like inkjet garment printing and digital garment printing. The process has the potential to mix colors, thus is also used to recreate colors, gradients, and minute details, which other methods are unable to achieve.
Wholesale t shirt printing in just a few steps! DTG is perfect for complicated designs and on-demand enterprises with low budgets. Since Digital Apparel printing is a complete digital procedure, it requires a minimum setup. All you need is a digital copy of the design and the fabric. Your t-shirt will get customized in no time.
Transfer printing
In the transfer printing technique, the design is first printed on a separate surface and then moved to the main fabric via a different process. Often, you can do transfer printing through vinyl, and in the next step it is sealed on the primary material with a heat press.
The process may seem simple. However, there are advantages to using this technique. Moreover, transfer printing provides a brilliant final look and effect on the T-shirt.
Transfer printing techniques work best for sports apparel. Transfer printing is ideal for bringing out custom t-shirts for sports teams. The convenient setup and easy printing procedures enable printing numbers and names on the garments. It is also a brilliant choice for printing simple, small designs that require a handful of units. Screen printing is impractical when only a few units need printing.
Advantages of transfer printing:
- Shorter production duration
- Rejection rates are lower
- Transfer printing produces specific textures and effects
- Complex designs are easier to print via transfer printing
You must also know that transfer printing is not limited to particular fabrics.
Set up cost is low
When it comes to printing in bulk, plenty of methods are available. However, knowing which way is best, practical, and convenient for your needs is essential. Designing t-shirts in bulk orders require simple designs and basic styling. Do not go experimental because then it might lead to failed outcomes. You can try something quirky but with a lot of thought. Happy printing!
