Sunburst Logo LLC

How To Choose the application for your logo on garments

Choosing between screen printing, embroidery, and Direct-to-Film (DTF) for apparel decoration can be challenging. Here’s a few recommendations regarding how to make an educated decision regarding which way is going to work best for your particular application. I’ve heard it said that knowledge is power so let’s get educated. Let’s start by identifying your specific project needs, including design complexity, order quantity, garment type, and budge. Each different type of application lends itself to distinct advantages and limitations.

Screen printing is a common method that’s perfect for large-volume quantities with simpler designs and limited amount of colors. The reason why is it requires starting with vectorized artwork that is ready to go and will lend itself to a clean finished application. It also mandates that you are going to require a separate screen for each color involved. Every t-shirt going through the Press is going to get the same exact size image transferred to it regardless of the size of the apparel that it is being applied to. It is normally very durable if done correctly but the ink has to be cured. If not, it is likely to fade or wash out prematurely. It is probably the most common way to apply a logo to a t-shirt when needing a large amount of units. Sometimes the cost can be a little higher depending on the amount of colors involved. Another advantage is its versatility. It works well on almost every type of fabric and is not limited to just cotton.

Embroidery involves thread instead of ink. If you’re looking for a first-class application, there is no substitute for custom embroidery. It is normally used on golf shirts and jackets as well as hats. It’s all done by computer so the very first thing that has to happen, regardless of what St Louis company you choose to work with, is there needs to be a piece of software written that’ll tell the computer how to sew it. This is done by an experienced individual called the digitizer. No matter how good the equipment is you’re using or the experience of the operator behind it, you’re never any better than the software that tells the computer how to move that needle. As far as longevity is concerned, nothing lasts longer than custom embroidery as it actually becomes part of the garment unlike ink that simply sits on top of it.

Direct-to-Film (DTF) just like every different sector of our economy; the St Louis t-shirt companies are no exception to evolving. Technology has been a game changer. This is probably the biggest breakthrough in St Louis t-shirt printing history. It’s perfect for the individual who is only looking for one or two pieces at a time or for those who want to implement a colorful piece of artwork. The setup costs are very low compared to ocnventional screen printing. The best part of this application is it doesn’t matter how many colors the image is composed of. It also does a fantastic job when it comes to replicating half tones and gradations, lending itself to producing extremely intricate and detailed applications. It’s proven itself to be pretty durable and withstands multiple washings without peeling or fading. It also has proven to be very versatile as it works on cotton, polyester, or even nylon. It not only works great on t-shirts but can also be a great application for custom patches.