Branding
Branding solutions can be a little overwhelming so we have broken it down for you to get a better understanding on what your requirements are.
Artwork Requirements
In order to get the best look for your branded product, we require all artwork to be supplied as a Vector File in the format of EPS, PDF or .AI to give you the best quality for your product.
Embroidery
The preferred branding solution for corporate apparel, hats, beanies etc.
Embroidery is done with needle and thread. It is long lasting and washes well. It also gives a high perceived value.
Screen Print
Screen printing involves forcing ink through a mesh screen with a squeegee onto the product or substrate and is excellent for large print areas on flat or cylindrical objects. Close PMS matches can be achieved on white surfaces but as the colour of the product gets darker the ability to match PMS colours diminishes. Screen printing is best suited for spot colour reproduction and is not recommended for logos with half tones in them.
Screen Print Transfers
A screen printed transfer (also known as a plastisol transfer) is an image which has been screen printed onto release paper. Instead of being directly screen printed onto a shirt or other item, the design is printed onto transfer paper, then applied with a heat press. Screen printed transfers can be single or multi-color, and heat apply in seconds to any number of items, such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, jackets, and caps.
Digital Transfers
Great when you have a lot of colours as you pay one set up fee as opposed to one for each colour. Cost effective for smaller jobs.
Your image is put on thin vinyl or PVC and heat pressed onto the garment. It is a great alternative to Embroidery if your image has a high thread count or is highly detailed with lots of colours.
Sublimation
This is where the colours are dyed into the fabric meaning you can have as little or as much colours, logo's and images with no set up fees. No fading, no peeling and no ripping. Unlike other branding options Sublimated ink becomes part of the fabric and cannot be felt by the hand.
Dye inks are put on specialised release paper which is then processed through a large format press under high heat and pressure. The heat releases the dye from the paper and fuses it with the paper.
Pad Print
Pad printing uses a silicone pad to transfer an image to a product from a laser etched printing plate. Pad printing is one of the most practical and popular ways of branding promotional products due to its ability to reproduce images on uneven or curved surfaces and print multiple colours in a single pass. Close PMS matches can be achieved on white surfaces but as the colour of the product gets darker the ability to match PMS colours diminishes.
Laser Engraving
Laser engraving gives a permanent finish and creates a higher perceived value than direct printing. It is ideal for metal and glass items and because it is a digital process can be used for personalising products with individual names.
We hope this information gives you some insight into the different branding methods. Please don't hesitate to contact us should you require any further information or help. We will be happy to assist.