Print-on-Demand here in the USA
We don’t bulk-purchase printed products, which results in greater waste and uncertain quality, and is more subject to supply-chain delays. Rather, our products are printed on-demand as the first stage of the fulfillment process. Each printed product we sell is finished in a U.S. located, quality-controlled printing facility. We NEVER use screen-printing, but rather one of three high-tech processes that produce quality items, whether on fabric, glass, metal, or ceramics. Embroidered items use computer-controlled, laser-precision processes to ensure our great quality. Although our fulfillment turn-around time is often a bit more than big box shippers with huge warehouses, we think the confidence of higher quality items is worth the slight trade-off.
Direct-to-Garment printing
Direct-to-garment printing (or DTG) is a technology by which ink is precision-sprayed into fabric. Rather than sitting on top of the fabric, the ink actually soaks into, and dyes the cloth. Unlike a silk-screen, the final garment is not stiff, and will non crack over time. The fabric is as soft and comfortable as before the printing process, and will retain even the most vibrant colors. Since this is a digital process, the print is sharper and has a higher resolution than traditional printing methods. The inks used are completely non-toxic, and safe for the environment…which is nice.
All-Over printing
For some garments, they may actually require our All-Over printing (or AOP) method. With this process, a sublimation process applies a design to uncut fabric using precise patterns. These cut, dyed pieces are then sewn into the final product with cutting-edge, industrial sewing machines. Here in America. And not by poor little kids in some third-world country.
Sublimation printing
Sublimation printing uses heat to fuse ink and surface material or fabric, depending on the case. The inks used in the sublimation process turn into gas when brought under heat, then combine with the textile and permanently imprint onto the fabric. The result is permanent and significantly less prone to fading, as the ink penetrates the material instead of simply laying on top like a regular print. Think of sublimation printing almost like tattooing where fabric is used instead of skin. Then, instead of pores, there are fibers that open up under the heat. There the ink cools while pressure is applied, transitioning back to a solid, secure form.
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