Learn all about custom imprinted apparel in this section. Apparel includes most wearable items including t-shirts, hats, and aprons. There are a variety of printing methods to accommodate one shirt to 10,000 shirts. Ready for a quote or to order - Shop Apparel.
Apparel Products
T-Shirts
Polos / Sports Shirts
Sweatshirts / Fleece
Activewear
Outerwear
Woven/Dress Shirts
Workwear
Caps / Hats
Pants / Shorts
Uniforms
Sports
Scrubs
Professional
Service Industry
Aprons
Print Methods
The print method used is determined by a few factors including quantity, number of colors in the artwork, personalization, and special effect desired.
Screen Printing
a mesh screen is used with a squeegee to push ink through the screen onto the item
a separate screen is needed for each color and location
when printing light ink on a dark shirt an underlay coat is needed
minimum quantity is 12 pieces, no maximum
most common for use on t-shirts
Heat Transfer
material is cad-cut and heat applied onto the item
professional equipment allows for precise time, temperature, and pressure to ensure proper adhesion to the item
allows for resizing artwork to fit adults and infants appropriately
no minimum, maximum is 50 pieces
most common when small quantities are needed or personalization is desired such as a name and number on the back of a uniform
small detail in the design does not work well with this method
special effect material available including glitter, foil, flock, glow, reflective, and rhinestones
full-color design printed onto material prior to the transfer is available; minimums apply
Direct on Garment
a special printer is used to print ink directly onto the item
best for multi-color and full-color designs
no minimum, no maximum (however, for large quantities screen printing is more economical)
Sublimation
heat is used to transfer dye onto the item, usually a full-color print
most common for sports uniforms
Embroidery
thread is used to stitch the design onto the item
no minimum, no maximum
the cost for digitizing the artwork and the stitch count affect pricing
most common for use on polos, dress shirts, and hats
Set-up Charges and Run Charges
We use all inclusive pricing for our apparel. Any set-up charges and run charges will be included in the quoted price.
Spoilage
While every attempt is made to produce perfect orders every time, spoilage does happen. Spoilage occurs when printed items do not pass quality control for print quality or garment quality (holes, stains, mis-sewn). Common industry tolerance for spoilage is 3%. If exact quantities are critical, we recommend ordering extras.
Dye Migration
Polyester fabric is subject to dye migration. Dye migration is when the color of the shirt migrates (moves) through the ink, causing the print to be off-color. This can happen up to two weeks after apparel is printed. Colors most vulnerable are red, maroon, green, and dark blues. Some apparel brands formulate their fabric to help off-set the chance of this occurring. Client takes all risk for dye migration in polyester and polyester blends. Refunds will NOT be given as a result of dye migration.
Fabric
Cotton
most common fabric for t-shirts
most economical
comfortable
durable
breathable
natural
Combed Cotton
stronger, softer, and smoother than regular cotton
combed to eliminate short strands and straighten fibers
Ringspun Cotton
stronger and softer than regular cotton
made using a twisting technique
Cotton/Polyester Blend
light and comfortable feel from cotton
wrinkle resistance and strength from polyester
most popular and softest is a combed ringspun cotton / polyester blend
most often available in heathered shirts
Tri-Blend - Cotton/Polyester/Rayon
ultimate in softness
Polyester
most common for performance / athletic shirts
retains original shape well
wrinkle resistant
quick drying
strong
synthetic
Fits
Infant / Toddler
Newborn to 4T
Rabbit Skins brand ensures they are dressed in style
Youth
Children Size 4 to 20 (XS-XL)
Unisex fit
Girls
Children Size 4 to 20 (XS-XL), fit same range as youth
Slim fit designed to be flattering on girls
Juniors
Ideal for Young Women in the Pre-teen to Teen Range
Shirts have a slim fit with short and trim sleeves
Adults ordering this fit may want to order one or two sizes larger
Young Mens
Ideal for Young Men in the Pre-teen to Teen Range
Shirts have a slim fit with short and trim sleeves
Adults ordering this fit may want to order one or two sizes larger
Ladies
Contour fit usually with side seams
Designed to flatter the female shape
Mens / Unisex
Standard adult fit
Often referred to as unisex fit, as this fit is often ordered for both males and females
Retail vs Standard
Retail fit is offered by premium brands (Anvil, Next Level, Bella & Canvas, LAT)
Standard fit is offered by standard brands (Port & Company, Gildan)
Retail fit is a slim, tailored fit. Standard fit is boxy.
Often retail fit shirts have side seams. Standard fit is usually tubular construction.
Adult and Teen Sizes
Generally range from XS to 6XL
Availability of sizes XS and 3XL-6XL depends on brand, style, fabric, and color
Every brand and style fits differently, so it is important to view the item's sizing guide to ensure a good fit