Prints, embroidery and surface treatment

Printing and embroidery give a piece identity, but they also add cost and limits on quantity and placement.

Common methods

• Screen printing: Excellent for medium quantities and solid colours.
• Digital printing: Flexible for complex designs and small quantities.
• Sublimation: Usually for light coloured synthetic fabrics.
• Embroidery: Gives texture and richness, and costs by stitch count.

Questions before ordering

• What is the minimum quantity per design or colour?
• What is the print size and where does it sit on the piece?
• Can the fabric take this method, and how does it behave after washing?
• What is the setup or screen cost?

Test it

Ask for a sample printed on the same fabric and wash it before you approve. A print that cracks or fades after a few washes damages your reputation.

Exercise

Choose one surface method for your piece and write three questions for the supplier about it. Request a sample and run a wash test on it.