Decorating Methods

Looking to make an order with decoration involved? Not sure which decorating method will be the best for your order? Then you’ve come to the right place! Choosing the right type of decoration is essential to representing your brand! With this post, we want to show and explain the different types of decorating methods to ensure that your logo and message will result in a memorable and lasting impression!

Apparel Methods

Silkscreen/Screen Printing

            One of the most widely used and most known methods of decoration is silk-screening or screen printing. Silkscreen is the direct imprinting of a one-color design or text onto the surface of a product. The image is pressed through tensioned nylon mesh, leaving a paint-like appearance. Pricing for silkscreen is based on amount of colors in your image.

Heat Transfer

            A heat transfer is very similar to screen printing. The only difference is that with screen printing, actual screens are used in the process, hence the name! With heat transfers, custom designs are applied to items like t-shirts or table clothes through a process that involves the combination of heat and pressure. The result is different from screen printing where it seems like the design is “on top” of the fabric.

Embroidery

Another popular method of decorating is embroidery! Embroidery is the use of decorating fabric or other materials with needle and thread or yarn. Embroidery can be done on a variety of different fabric products such as caps, bags, blankets, towels, shirts, hoodies, and the list goes on! Pricing for embroidery is based on image size or total number of stitches.

Sublimation or Dye-Sublimation

            Sublimation is actually a form of heat transfer! Sublimation is the process by which sublimation dyes are printed onto a transfer medium with a specially prepared inkjet printer. Those dyes are then transferred from the medium to a product or garment under heat and pressure, like a regular heat press! The only catch is that sublimation only works on garments or objects made of polyester. 

When the heat and pressure is applied, the dye that was on the transfer medium sublimates (becomes a gas) and is then absorbed into the polyester, becoming an actual part of the garment! The result is an article of clothing or object that doesn’t fade easily, wear, or have any texture or weight!

Miscellaneous Item Methods

Laser Engraving

The go-to decoration method for metal products (and sometimes wood surfaces!). Laser engraving is a unique application where a laser removes a thin layer of fiber or pigment dye. The results of laser engraving are extremely clear and precise, and it’s unable to be peeled off the product! This makes laser engraving the perfect option for items that get continuous use such as pens or drinkware!

Deboss/Emboss

Embossing and debossing are the processes of creating either raised or recessed relief images and designs. These methods give your logo a 3D element and produce a very professional and sophisticated result. Debossing or embossing is typically used for leather products, such as journals, padfolios, or luggage tags.

Next time you are looking to start an order, always keep in mind all of these different options!