Creating custom apparel is one of my favorite parts of running my business. Whether you need a single personalized shirt, a batch of hoodies, or premium jacket patches, I use several different production methods to get the perfect look and feel for every project. Each technique has its own strengths, and choosing the right one helps bring your design to life just the way you imagined.
1. Sublimation Printing
Sublimation is my go-to method for vibrant, full-color designs that become part of the fabric—not something printed on top. The ink turns into a gas under heat and permanently bonds with polyester fibers.
You Cannot Feel the Design
One of the biggest advantages of sublimation is that there is zero texture. The design is completely smooth because it is ink-infused into the polyester material. It will never crack, peel, or fade.
⚠️ Light Colors Only + Polyester Required
• Garments Must Be Light-Colored
- Sublimation ink is transparent.
- It prints beautifully on white and soft, light shades.
- It does not work on dark colors.
• Garments Must Be Polyester
- The ink only bonds to polyester fibers.
- Higher polyester content = brighter results.
- Modern polyester blends are extremely soft—nothing like old-school athletic material!
Great for Very Small Orders (Even One!)
Sublimation is perfect for one-off shirts, gifts, or small custom runs. Just keep in mind that a quantity of one will cost more per piece because setup and materials are not spread across multiple garments.
2. Vinyl (HTV) Designs
Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) is ideal for bold, clean designs and specialty finishes like glitter, metallic, holographic, matte, puff, and more. The design is cut from vinyl and heat-pressed onto the garment.
Great for Very Small Orders (Even One!)
HTV is one of the best options for single shirts, names and numbers, or small custom runs. However, just like sublimation, a quantity of one costs more per piece due to setup and weeding time.
Why I Use HTV
- Crisp, clean lines
- Works on cotton, polyester, and blends
- Huge range of specialty finishes
- Perfect for simple logos, text, and small orders
3. DTF (Direct-to-Film) Transfers
DTF is one of the most versatile, modern printing methods. Designs are printed onto a film, coated with adhesive powder, cured, and then heat-pressed onto the garment.
Why DTF Is Amazing
- Full-color printing with excellent detail
- Soft feel compared to vinyl
- Durable and stretchy
- Works on cotton, polyester, blends, fleece, and more
- Great for hoodies and sweatshirts
Best For
- Multicolor logos
- High-detail artwork
- Medium to large graphics
- Any color garment
4. Screen Printing (Great for Small or Large Batches)
Screen printing is a classic, long-lasting method that creates bold, vibrant prints. It works for both small and large batches depending on the artwork.
Why I Use Screen Printing
- Extremely durable ink
- Bright, opaque colors
- Cost-effective for batch orders
- Perfect for logos and bold designs
Small vs. Large Batches
- Small batches work best with 1–2 color designs.
- Large batches (20, 50, 100+) lower the cost per shirt dramatically.
Costs Increase With More Colors
- Each color requires its own screen and setup.
- More colors = higher cost due to additional screens and press passes.
What Is “Ganging”?
Ganging allows multiple designs to be placed on the same screen setup—as long as they use the same color(s) and similar sizing. This helps:
- Reduce setup costs
- Lower cost per shirt
- Allow multiple design variations in one run
Best For
- Business logo tees
- School or team apparel
- Events and fundraisers
- Merch drops with matching color palettes
5. Leatherette Patches (Sewn-On)
For jackets, hoodies, hats, and bags, leatherette patches offer a premium, rugged, high-quality look. These are laser-engraved and then sewn onto the garment for long-lasting durability.
Why People Love Leatherette Patches
- Extremely durable—perfect for outerwear
- Weather-resistant and long lasting
- Clean, professional look
- Stitched on so they won’t peel or lift
- Great for branding, clubs, and high-end merch
Available Leatherette Colors
- Classic Brown
- Saddle Tan
- Natural / Light Brown
- Black w/ Gold Engraving
- Black w/ Silver Engraving
- Gray
- White
- Red, Blue, Green, and other specialty colors
Best For
- Jackets and coats
- Hoodies
- Beanies and hats
- Bags and backpacks
- Logo merchandise
Choosing the Best Method for Your Apparel
Every project is unique, which is why I offer multiple printing and patch options. Fabric type, design complexity, desired finish, and quantity all play a part in choosing the best method for your apparel.
If you’re unsure which method fits your design or budget, I’m here to help guide you so your final product looks incredible.
