Photo printing on T-shirts - what types are there?
Photo printing on T-shirts is a method of applying images to the surface of fabric using special techniques and equipment. It allows you to transfer photographs, pictures, logos or any other images onto a T-shirt.
There are several types T-shirt printing, each of which has its own characteristics:
- Direct photo printing (Direct-to-Garment, DTG): This type of printing is carried out using a special printer that directly applies ink to the surface of the T-shirt. DTG allows you to reproduce complex multi-color images with shades and transitions. A high quality water soluble ink is used which penetrates the fibers of the fabric and creates a print that feels imprinted into the fabric.
- Heat Transfer: This method involves the use of special sublimation paper and a heating press. The image is printed on paper and then transferred to a T-shirt using heat and pressure. Thermal transfer provides vibrant, long-lasting printing that lasts well on fabric. It allows you to use complex graphic elements and create high-quality photo prints.
- Dye Sublimation: In this case, the image is printed on special paper using sublimation ink. Then, using a heating press and high temperature, the ink changes from solid to gas and penetrates the surface of the T-shirt. The ink is absorbed into the fibers of the fabric, creating a vibrant, long-lasting image. Sublimation printing has smooth color transitions and allows you to apply images to almost the entire surface of a T-shirt.
Each type of photo printing has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the choice depends on the specific requirements of the customer and the type of image that needs to be placed on the T-shirt.
Advantages
- Photo printing on T-shirts allows you to create unique designs and personalize your clothing.
- Photo printing provides high quality and clarity of the image on the T-shirt.
- Photo printing allows you to use different colors and shades, which allows you to bring a wide variety of ideas and designs to life.
- Photo printing is strong and durable, does not fade or wash off when washed, which allows you to maintain the brightness and beauty of the image on the T-shirt.
- Photo printing is environmentally friendly and safe for health; the dyes and racks used do not contain harmful substances.
- Photo printing on T-shirts is a universal way of applying an image, which is suitable for various materials and types of fabrics.
- Photo printing on T-shirts allows you to create individual gifts and souvenirs that will be original and memorable.
- Photo printing on T-shirts can be used for advertising and promotion of a brand or company, allowing you to create a memorable and attractive image.
Disadvantages
Limited Image Size: T-shirt photo printing has a limited size, which means it is not always possible to print a large, detailed image onto a T-shirt.
Fading: Over time and after several washes, photo prints on T-shirts may fade and lose their brightness. This is especially true for photos that were printed on regular printers without special ink or processing.
Embossed Feel: Photo printing on a T-shirt can create an embossed feel on the surface of the fabric, especially if thick layers of ink are used. This can be unpleasant for some people and cause the T-shirt to wear out.
Limited Durability: Unlike embroidery, photo T-shirt printing has limited durability. Ink may begin to fade or peel after several washes or due to improper care.
Limited Design Options: T-shirt photo printing is not suitable for all designs and may limit users' options. Some intricate or delicate details may be difficult to transfer onto fabric using photo printing.
Cost: The photo printing process on a T-shirt can be expensive, especially when ordering one-off copies. For large quantities, the cost may be more affordable, but is still higher than other methods of printing on clothing, such as printing on ready-made labels.
