Decoration Methods
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Screenprinting - Screen printing typically uses a fabric stretched tightly over a frame. Images are created by blocking parts of the screen using various techniques. Ink is forced through the open areas of the screen onto the surface of the object. A separate screen must be created for each colour to be printed and colours must be applied in passes allowing drying time between each. This is the most common method of imprinting on promotional items and apparel such as T-shirts.
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Embroidery - A design stitched onto a material through the use of high speed, computer controlled sewing machines. Artwork must first be "digitized," which is the specialized process of converting two-dimensional artwork into stitches or thread. The digitizer must actually recreate the artwork using stitches. Then it programs the sewing machine to sew a specific design, in a specific colour, with a specific type of stitch. This is the process known as digitizing. Embroidery is most commonly used on logo patches, apparel and caps or hats. 3D Embroidery is a process where a material is placed between the product and the embroidery resulting in a 3D effect.
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Digital Printing - A full colour print process. Products may be printed directly or a transfer is first printed then applied.
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4 Colour Process Printing - Four-color process printing is a process in which we start with finished full-colour artwork and separate out the three subtractive primary colours of yellow, cyan, magenta, plus black. A program creates separate films that are then printed with special process inks and the resulting print appears just like the original artwork. This is the same basic technology used in your home or office ink jet printer.
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Sublimation – Specialised inks are printed onto paper then applied to the product using heat and pressure. The print is embedded in the material ensuring it will not peel or crack. Many sporting garments are printed with this method.
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Laser Engraving - A computerised machine uses laser technology to cut into the products surface and is usually performed on metal. A very precise method of decoration.
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Etching - A process in which an image is first covered with a protective coating that resists acid, then exposed, leaving bare metal and protected metal. The acid attacks only the exposed metal, leaving the image etched onto the surface.
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Pad Printing – Ink is applied directly to the product using a flexible silicon pad. This method is suited to producing small detailed designs onto many different shaped products.
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Emboss / Deboss - Embossing impresses an image into the surface in relief creating a raised image. Debossing is just the opposite and creates an image pressed into the surface of an object.
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Foil Stamping/Printing – Foil is pressed onto the product using heat and pressure. Generally used on leather, vinyl, PVC, etc.
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Lithographic Printing – Full Colour automated cost effective method. Can be used on mouse mats, paper products and mugs.
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Decal Printing – Ink is printed onto a transfer material such as paper, using screen, digital or lithographic printing. Transfer is then applied to the product. Commonly used on mugs and glassware.
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Digital Transfer Printing – Ink is printed onto a transfer material such as paper, using screen, digital or lithographic printing. Transfer is then applied to the product. Commonly used on garments, bags and caps.
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