Logo Design Processes
Ever wonder how we create your custom logo apparel, clothing, accessories, and gifts? We accomplish this by offering and doing a wide variety of creative production processes. Learn more about each one below! If you have any questions, concerns, and/or requests, please do not hesitate to contact us for assistance! Our friendly graphic artists can help you decide which one is the best to use in order to create your personalized logo attire, uniforms, workwear, gear, merchandise, and swag!
Screen-Print (SP)
A printing style in which ink is forced through a mesh screen and directly onto any apparel and clothing or other type of substrate. The result is the transfer of the screen's image to the print surface. This creates a vibrant and long-lasting imprint that can be used on a wide variety of products.
When to Pick Screen-Print
Screen-printing is the cheapest when ordering in large quantities. It works well with complex designs with many different colors. Apparel such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and tank tops are great for this design process as well. On the other hand, jackets would not work well with screen-printing and we would recommend looking into getting your logo embroidered.
Benefits of Screen-Print
Pros:
- Durability
- Great for complex and simple designs
- Cost-effective for large quantity orders
- Screen-printed designs are iron-safe and are machine washable
Cons
- Longer set-up time
- Limited colors
- Additional colors increase cost
Examples of Screen-Print
Embroidery (EMB)
Your custom logo is digitized and sent to our computerized sewing machines that then embroider the design into various the garment such as: hats, jackets, polo shirts, and more.
We use three different types of stitches for custom logo embroidery:
- Fill Stitch for large, solid areas
- Satin Stitch for small details, like lettering
- Walking Stitch for very small, fine details
When to Pick Embroidery
Embroidery typically look best when placed on the chest of polos, button-downs and jackets; it even works well with hats, bags, and beanies! It allows for pin point color choices and works well with large designs.
Benefits of Embroidery
Pros
- Durable, high-quality finish
- Works on heavier material, such as jackets and fleeces
- No additional cost for changing thread colors
Cons
- Small designs don't work too well - letters may be too small to see
- Price is based on number of stitches - cost increases depending on how complex the design is
Examples of Embroidery
Applique (TWILL)
Pieces of tackle twill, or fabric, are cut then heat-pressed onto the garments and finally sewn-own for a classic look. Jerseys, varsity and letterman jackets are the common apparel type for this customization.
When to Pick Applique
Works best with patches and logos, and with bright color stitch's. This customization option gives a vintage look that is great for sports jerseys and personalizing the sleeves on hoodies or jackets.
Benefits of Applique
Pros
- Allows for different textures and effects on large areas
- Avoids adding bulk to thick garments
- Can use patterns, images, or colors
Cons
- Production time is longer than other methods
- Additional twill is priced on each piece cut -- each letter gets charged per name
- Can make garment feel thick
Examples of Applique
Laser Engraving (LZR)
Your logo is etched into the surface of an object with one of our CO2 universal laser machines. This method creates sharp, clear logos that are unable to be removed. Engraving is available on items such as: wood, metal, and leather.
When to Pick Laser Engraving
This decoration method creates sharp logos that are unable to be removed. Great for promotional pens, custom drinkware, and personalized accessories.
Benefits of Laser Engraving
Pros
- Permanent Marks
- Logos/Text are Given Depth and Texture
- No Dyes or Ink needed
Cons
- No Color on the Logo
- Takes Long to Create
Examples of Laser Engraving
Sublimation (SUB)
If you have ever used an iron to press a decal onto a shirt then you know the basis of heat transfer, but our method is exceptionally more advanced. The digital heat seal decoration method utilizes regulated heat and pressure to thermally bond graphics onto a material’s surface. You can read our complete step by step guide to custom heat transfer printing here!
When to Pick Sublimation
Sublimation works best when looking to add designs on light color shirts to make them stand out. This durable method will allow you to create custom Polyester shirts.
Benefits of Sublimation
Pros
- Long Lasting Colors
- Large Option of Colors
- Ability to Print Intricate Designs
Cons
- Only Works on Polyester
- Requires Specialty Inks and Printers
- Must be on a Light Color Shirt
CAD/Vinyl Press (CAD)
Like other processes, this one uses heat to activate and attach a sort of vinyl sticker onto a fabric. The final product not only looks great, but is also durable and works well with sportswear.
When to Pick CAD/Vinyl Press
CAD/Vinyl printing is used for simple designs to create basic shapes or text. Used mostly for jerseys for name and numbers. Not recommended when trying to show a great deal of detail on a shirt.
Benefits of CAD/Vinyl Press
Pros
- Low Chance of an Error
- Short Run Times
- Inexpensive ink
Cons
- Can not be Dry Cleaned, Needs to be Washed in Warm Water
- Colors are limited
Examples of CAD/Vinyl Press
Direct-to-Garment (DTG)
One of the newest and most fun. This process uses a jumbo-sized printer (almost like the one you have at home) to print directly onto the garment of your choice. It is great for printing small-run, full-color prints.
When to Pick DTG
This printing method has a very quick turnaround time and produces a high resolution image on garments. DTG is one of the most commonly used printing methods for its quality, durability, and price.
Benefits of DTG
Pros
- Quick Turnaround Time
- Great for Multiple Color Designs
- Good Option for Low Cost Items
Cons
- Prints on Dark Color Garments Can Appear Grainy
- Cannot be Used on Sports Shirts
Digital Printing (DIG)
Your custom design or logo is printed onto different types of materials depending on the final product. This process works for creating: promotional stickers, vinyl banners, full-color T-shirt designs, and more.
When to Pick Digital Printing
This method works will when your logo/design is very high in detail. This allows for the finer details of your design to be shown. Most commonly done with small orders for quicker turnaround time.
Benefits of Digital Printing
Pros
- Quick Turnaround Time
- Wide Range of Application
- Can Use Unlimited Colors
- Great for Showing the Fine Details
Cons
- More Expensive Process
- Large Orders Have a Long Run Time