Design Application Methods

Scroll down for shirt styles and measurements. Click below to expand descriptions about design application methods.

Direct-to-garment, or DTG, is a printing method that sprays the ink onto the garment. The ink then soaks into the fibers of the garment. It’s like printing on paper, but on clothing, using a special inkjet printer.

PROS: unlimited colors, highly detailed designs, fairly sturdy application

CONS: there's an off smell and haze to the design prior to first washing because of fabric pre-treatment

LASTS: 30-40 washes

PROCESSED: External Manufacturer

Screen printing is a printing method where ink is pushed through a woven screen (also called mesh stencil) onto a non-stick paper. I then press the transfer onto a garment using a heat-press machine in my studio which also cures the paint-like ink into a durable design.

PROS: extremely durable print

CONS: higher setup costs to create screens, limited number of colors

LASTS: 40+ washes

PROCESSED: In House

Direct to Foil (or DTF) is a printing method that sprays ink onto a plastic foil sheet and is set with an adhesive powder. I then apply the design to the garment using a heat press which cures the ink into the fabric.

PROS: unlimited colors, vibrant and detailed designs, super soft application

CONS: ordered transfers can mean higher costs

LASTS: 30-40 washes

PROCESSED: In House

Heat Transfer Vinyl (or HTV) is a thin sheet of vinyl with an adhesive backing that is applied to garments using heat and pressure.

PROS: can get solid colors, prints, and even glitter

CONS: layering can be difficult, high detail is difficult, colors limited to what you can purchase, can have a crinkly finish

LASTS: 10-20 washes

PROCESSED: In House

Sublimation is a special ink printed onto a non-stick transfer paper that is then applied to polyester-based garments using heat and pressure. Sublimation is the process of turning a solid directly into a gas causing the design to fuse to the polyester and become a part of the fabric.

PROS: exceptional detail possibility, unlimited color options, extreme durability

CONS: can only be applied to light-colored, polyester-based items

LASTS: the life of the garment

PROCESSED: In House

GARMENT FIT & MEASUREMENTS

Measure against a shirt that fits or yourself. If you’re measuring yourself, go all the way around your chest and waist then divide in half.

Unisex Short Sleeve T-Shirt

Standard length and fit. Lightweight fabric easily gives for movement.

Solid colors are 100% combed and ring-spun cotton; heather colors are 52% cotton 48% polyester.

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Ladie's Relaxed Fit T-Shirt

A looser fit that provides extra comfort and free movement.

Solid colors are 100% combed and ring-spun cotton; heather colors are 52% cotton 48% polyester.

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Unisex Tank Top

Standard length and fit. Lightweight fabric easily gives for movement.

100% combed and ring-spun cotton.

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Unisex Long-Sleeve T-Shirt

Standard length and fit. Fabric easily gives for movement.

Solid colors are 100% combed and ring-spun cotton; heather colors are 52% cotton 48% polyester.

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Unisex Heavyweight Hoodie

Standard length and heavyweight fabric cut to fit as expected for a warm hoodie. Large front pocket, matching drawstrings in the double-lined hood.

50% pre-shrunk cotton, 50% polyester

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Unisex Triblend Zip Hoodie

Slim fit meant to hug the body. Lightweight fabric lends breathability for warmer climates. Extra comfortable fabric and fit.

50% polyester, 25% combed ring-spun cotton, 25% rayon

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Ladies' Cotton / Poly Racerback Tank Top

Meant to be form fitting but not tight, this cotton poly blend shirt has an extended length and scoop neck. Standard arm holes and racerback back.

60% combed ring-spun cotton, 40% jersey polyester

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV

Ladies' Performance Tank Top

Ultra lightweight fabric has moisture-wicking and UV protection. Made for performance, the racerback tank is a standard sports cut.

100% tech polyester

DTG, Screen Print Transfer, DTF, HTV, Sublimation

Ladies' AOP Tank Top

Tailored waist and chest. Meant to be form fitting but not ultra tight. Ultra soft and stretchy material protects skin from prolonged activity.

82% polyester, 18% spandex

Sublimation

Men's AOP Tank Top

Meant to have a comfortable, relaxed fit. Lightweight and stretchy fabric allows a breathable finish for high-activity.

95% polyester, 5% elastane

Sublimation

Ladies' AOP Athletic Shirt

Extra comfy fabric and fit gives to movement. Moisture managing and anti-microbial fabric has a mesh-like appearance. Soft and stretchy, the shirt holds up well to vigorous workouts.

92% polyester, 8% spandex

Sublimation

Men's AOP Athletic Shirt

Extra comfy fabric and fit gives to movement. Moisture managing and anti-microbial fabric has a mesh-like appearance. Soft and stretchy, the shirt holds up well to vigorous workouts.

92% polyester, 8% spandex

Sublimation

Men's AOP Rash Guard

Tailored to the chest and waist, finished with raglan sleeves. Moisture wicking with UPF protection suitable for water sports. Ultra soft fabric protects skin from extended movement, perfect for running and grappling sports.

82% polyester, 18% spandex

Sublimation

Ladies' AOP Rash Guard

Tailored to the chest and waist, finished with raglan sleeves. Moisture wicking with UPF protection suitable for water sports. Ultra soft fabric protects skin from extended movement, perfect for running and grappling sports.

82% polyester, 18% spandex

Sublimation

CARE SUGGESTION

Wash inside out with cold water on delicate setting. Hang to dry or tumble on low.

Ironing on the design or chlorine bleach are not recommended.

DESIGNS

If you see a design out there that is exactly what you want, I encourage you to purchase that one.  That artist or designer worked hard to come up with and market that design, and it's not in me to take that from them.

If you would like something similar but with changes or want a completely custom design, then I'm happy to hear your ideas and let you know if it's within my capabilities.  Even after years designing, I'm still learning new techniques and skills, so I'm always up for a challenge and love creating.

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