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Decoration Techniques: Apparel

At Score Promotions, innovation and creativity are the driving forces behind our rapid growth and success. Our mission is to inspire brands worldwide to explore the power of promotional marketing. What sets us apart from traditional distributors is our partnership-focused approach with both clients and suppliers, positioning us as a full-service promotional marketing agency.

rack of clothing

Our Account Management Team travels globally to uncover fresh product trends, form new supplier partnerships, and explore the latest decorating technologies. We go beyond simply placing logos on products; we create custom pieces that authentically represent our clients' brands and bring their stories to life. Apart from our in-house decorating, we can source out all the best decorating techniques in the industry.


Here are some examples of apparel decoration methods:

 

The Breakdown

Decoration Technique #1 - Screen printing (silk screen)

score screen printed shirt

A printing technique where ink is pushed through a stenciled mesh screen onto a surface to create a design. It’s widely used for producing bold, vibrant designs on various materials, particularly textiles, but also on paper, metal, plastic, wood and glass. Known for its durability and vibrant colours, screen printing is ideal for large batches of the same design. Examples: t-shirts, posters, packaging

 

Decoration Technique #2 - Dye sublimation (infusion)

dye sublimation shirt

Full-colour artwork is printed onto a special transfer paper, then using a heat press, the ink is infused into the fabric of the product. This results in vibrant colors, a soft feel and prints that are more durable because they are part of the fabric itself rather than sitting on the surface. It allows for breathable garments with long-lasting, fade-resistant designs. Examples: activewear, jerseys

 

Decoration Technique #3 - DTG Printing

DTG shirt

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a digital printing method that applies ink directly onto fabric, similar to how an inkjet printer works on paper. It uses specialized water-based inks that are absorbed by the fibers of the garment, allowing for vibrant, high-quality prints with intricate detail, full-color images, and smooth gradients. DTG is best for smaller order quantities or one-offs. This is also a great solution for complex designs and seamless printing over difficult areas such as zippers and seams. Examples: t-shirts, tote bags, sweaters

 

Decoration Technique #4 - HXD

HXD shirt

Add texture and dimension to your logo through applying a 3D emblem. HXD printing is an advanced, textured printing technique that combines aspects of screen printing and heat transfer technology. It’s designed to create raised, tactile designs with a three-dimensional look and feel, often with a metallic or matte finish. Examples: bags, hats, zip-ups

 

Decoration Technique #5 - Deboss

deboss shirt

The design is stamped into the fabric using a die that is heat-pressed into the material, creating a striking 3D appearance. This technique works equally well on all colours and black and white, giving a subtle tone-on-tone look and a high-end feel. Examples: quarter-zips, jackets

 

Decoration Technique #6 - Laser

laser shirt

Designs are etched into the item, burning a pattern or logo to reveal the material below the finish, giving it a unique tone-on-tone look. This decoration is perfect for mixed media using laser as the base beneath either embroidery or transfer for a unique look. Best for mid-range colours, and can be applied over seams and zippers. With unlimited washability, this technique will keep your designs looking pristine without fading. Examples: sweaters, polos

 
Part 3: Check back next month for more decorating techniques!
 
In the meantime, check out Part 1 of this series, the breakdown of our in-house decoration techniques

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