What are the different printing methods for printed T-shirts? How to choose the right one and what to be careful of

Original print T-shirts are useful in many places, such as events, school festivals, cultural festivals, club activities, sports clubs, and restaurants. Nowadays, there are dry T-shirts, long T-shirts, polo shirts, etc., and the appeal is that they can be worn in a variety of situations. However, there are many different types of T-shirt prints, so it can be difficult to choose. In this article, we will introduce the characteristics of T-shirts and how to choose a printed T-shirt. We will also explain things to be careful of when making original T-shirts, so please use it as a reference.

There are three main ways to print on T-shirts:

There are three main methods for printing on T-shirts:

  • Silk screen printing that transfers like a woodblock print
  • Cutting sheet that is attached by heat compression
  • Inkjet printing using an inkjet printer

We will explain each one in detail.

Silk screen printing that transfers like a woodblock print

Silk screen printing is a printing method in which ink is spread onto a mesh board and transferred like a print. Since a different board is used for each color, it is possible to print a specific color. This is the most common printing method for mass production of T-shirts.

Another advantage is that it can be used with a wide range of inks, including fluorescent and glittery colors. Since the ink is fixed by heat drying, it is less affected by the color of the fabric and does not sink into the fabric as much.

On the other hand, the cost of manufacturing the plates is high, and the fewer the number of T-shirts produced, the higher the cost per shirt. Another disadvantage is that it is difficult to print in full color or reproduce fine designs.

Cutting sheet that can be attached by heat pressing after cutting

Cutting sheets are a printing method in which a sheet cut by machine is attached to a T-shirt using heat and pressure. Cutting sheets are often printed in a single color, and each sheet can have a name and number printed on it. For this reason, they are often used for sports uniforms, etc.

In addition, the design can be reproduced with high fidelity and finished beautifully. Another advantage is that multi-color printing and special printing are possible.

On the other hand, it is not suitable for delicate designs like those in photographs. As with silk screen printing, the price tends to be higher if the order quantity is small, so it is better to create multiple T-shirts at once.

Inkjet printing using an inkjet printer

Inkjet printing is a printing method that uses a dedicated inkjet printer. There are various ways to print, such as printing directly onto clothing or printing only the design using heat and pressure.

Another advantage is that there is no limit to the number of colors, making it possible to realize full-color designs including gradations and photographs. Another advantage is that the texture of the fabric is easily maintained even after printing.

On the other hand, they are not good at expressing special colors such as glitter and foam. Also, some printing methods are limited to the materials that can be used for clothing.

Hanko Shop 21's inkjet printing has two printing methods: "inkjet printing" for printing on light-colored T-shirts, and "white inkjet printing" for printing on dark-colored T-shirts .

How to choose a printed T-shirt

When selecting a printed T-shirt, it is important to consider the following points:

  • material
  • Ounce
  • thread

There are many different types of T-shirts listed above, so check them out one by one and choose the one that's right for you.

If quality is important, choose based on the material

There are three main materials for printed T-shirts:

  • Soft cotton "T-shirts" and "long-sleeved T-shirts"
  • "Dry T-shirt" made of synthetic polyester with excellent quick-drying properties
  • If you're not sure which material to choose, we recommend the "Dry Kanoko Polo Shirt" made from a blended material.

We will explain each one in detail.

Soft cotton "T-shirts" and "long-sleeved T-shirts"

Cotton feels good on the skin and is comfortable to wear, even for babies and people with sensitive skin. It is also highly absorbent, so it can absorb sweat from exercise. Its moisturizing and breathable properties mean that it can be worn in any season.

On the other hand, it is difficult to dry and can become sticky depending on the amount of sweat you have. It can shrink when washed and is prone to wrinkling, which are also disadvantages.

It is important to take precautions such as not using it in situations where you sweat a lot and taking good care of it.

"Dry T-shirt" made of synthetic polyester with excellent quick-drying properties

Synthetic polyester is quick-drying, so it dries quickly even when you sweat. It has UV protection and is suitable for outdoor use, so it is a material often used for sportswear.
In addition, since it is a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum, there is no need to worry about insects eating it. It also has the advantage of being resistant to deformation and wrinkles, so you don't have to worry too much about caring for it.

On the other hand, it is also a material that easily generates static electricity and easily gets pilling. Since pilling affects the appearance, it will be necessary to remove it regularly with a lint remover.

If you're not sure which material to choose, we recommend the "Dry Kanoko Polo Shirt" made from a blended material.

Blended fabrics are a blend of cotton and polyester. They combine the soft feel of cotton with the quick-drying properties of polyester.

If thickness matters, choose by ounce

There are three main weights for printed T-shirts:

  • If you want something thinner, choose 9 ounces or less.
  • For those who prefer a standard thickness, 0 to 5.9 ounces
  • If you want a thick T-shirt, choose 0 oz or more.

We will explain each one in detail.

For those who want a thinner look, choose 4.9 ounces or less

Those weighing 4.9 ounces or less can be worn as a thin T-shirt. They are cool to wear in hot weather and can be worn as underwear in winter, so they can be worn in any season. They are soft and comfortable to wear, so they are also recommended as loungewear.

However, because they are thin, they are easily see-through and reveal the lines of your body, which may not be to everyone's taste. If this bothers you, choose a thicker T-shirt.

For those who prefer a standard thickness, choose 5.0 to 5.9 ounces.

5.0 to 5.9 ounces is the standard thickness for T-shirts. It is slightly thicker, so it is durable. If you like thin, choose 5.0; if you like thick, choose 5.9; if you like something neither too thin nor too thick, choose the middle one. It is also a point that you can choose according to your preference.

If you want a thick T-shirt, choose one that is 6.0 ounces or thicker.

T-shirts that are 6.0 ounces or more are recommended for people who want a thick T-shirt. They are thick enough that you can feel their thickness just by touching them, so they are perfect for wearing during the cold season. Another attractive feature is that they are not see-through even in white, and they do not show off your body lines.

However, because they are thick, they can feel stiff depending on the material. However, they are also very durable, making them ideal for people looking for a T-shirt that can be worn for a long time.

Choose based on the thread that affects comfort

There are three main types of thread used for printing T-shirts:

  • Carded yarn with a firm feel
  • Shiny combed yarn
  • Semi-combed yarn tends to be cheaper

We will explain each one in detail.

Carded yarn with a firm feel

Carded yarn is the most commonly used yarn for T-shirts. It is characterized by removing about 5% of the short fibers through a process called carding. Some people prefer carded yarn T-shirts because they have a firmer feel.

Shiny combed yarn

Combed yarn is yarn that has had 20% of the defective parts of the yarn removed. T-shirts made with combed yarn have a glossy fabric with less down.

Semi-combed yarn tends to be cheaper

Semi-combed yarn is a combination of carded and combed yarn. Its appeal is that it can be produced more cheaply than combed yarn while suppressing the generation of feathers that occurs with carded yarn. If you find it difficult to choose combed yarn due to the price, you can also look for T-shirts made of semi-combed yarn.

Important points to keep in mind when making your own T-shirts

When making your own custom T-shirts, keep the following points in mind:

  • Aim for a design that is easy to see
  • Choose a design that is copyright-free
  • Check the time it takes from ordering to receiving your order

We will explain each one in detail.

Aim for a design that is easy to see

When making an original T-shirt, it is important to make it easy to see. In particular, T-shirts worn for the following purposes require consideration of visibility.

T-shirt types Reasons for making it easier to see
T-shirts worn by event staff To let others know that you are a member of staff
club
T-Shirts
To help you know which club you belong to
T-shirts for parents To convey messages of support

Detailed designs can be complicated and make it hard to tell what is printed on the page at first glance, and even small print sizes can make it hard to make out what is printed on the page from a distance.

If you want to create a T-shirt that is easy to see, make sure to print a simple design and a size that fits on the front.

Choose a design that is copyright-free

When making an original T-shirt, you must first choose a design that does not violate copyright. This is because using designs that involve copyright is prohibited, even if the T-shirt is not for sale. Refrain from using not only company logos, but also personal designs published online.

On the other hand, you can use freely distributed logos, illustrations, and original designs. You may want to use a popular character design for a T-shirt for a school or cultural festival, but you should stick to a freely distributed or original design.

Check the time it takes from ordering to receiving your order

Make sure to check how long it will take for your custom T-shirt to arrive after ordering. Especially if you need custom T-shirts as uniforms for your restaurant, you may not be able to get them in time for your opening day unless you check the delivery time.

There are also surprisingly many situations where it would be a problem if the T-shirts do not arrive by the day, such as when they are used for an event or school festival.

It takes about 1-2 weeks for your custom T-shirt to arrive after ordering. To avoid late arrival, order well in advance, such as a month in advance.

Get the T-shirt that suits you best!

T-shirts are worn, so you should choose the ideal T-shirt that you are satisfied with. However, some people may be troubled because they can't find a T-shirt that suits their taste no matter how much they search.

In that case, consider making your own original T-shirt. Not only can you choose from a wide variety of colors, but you can also choose a design that suits your taste and purpose. If you're interested, take this opportunity to make your own original T-shirt.

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