This area discusses the most common processes used to manufacture our garments. Each variable has many options, below is just a brief list of possibilities. We are up to date on all the current trends and can match any processes desired.
wash – dye – print – embroidery/appliqué – flock/foil/transfer/rhinestone – sublimation
//Garment washes
We offer many different washes to effect the look and feel of the garment. Washes can be done before the fabric is cut or after the garment is finished. Most washes are done to soften the fabric or give the garment a worn look. Depending on the garment these washes listed below can be used to achieve your desired outcome.
enzyme wash – softens the fabric
silicone wash – gives a smooth, slick finish to the fabric
mineral wash – creates a distressed look on the fabric
vintage wash – makes the fabric appear worn, while also softening for comfort
We also use these wash styles stone wash, sand blast, destroy wash, dirty wash.
//Dye processes
If you are trying to be more eco-friendly the dye process can be avoided by using natural colored fabrics. For garments with color requirements we offer many options when it comes to dying. Below are the most common dye methods we use.
normal dye, dip dye, swirl dye, dual dye
//Garment printing
We use the most up to date print processes and equipment. Depending on the requirements of your print we will use our table top print set-up, belt printer or roller printer. We have the ability to print all over the fabric before its cut, so there is no maximum for print size. For orders that require printing to go over the neck trim or seams we can half-sew garments and use the table top method to achieve the desired print outcome. For table top printing the number of colors in the print is unlimited.
Most screen prints are typically printed with water-based or plastisol inks. When it comes to screen printing there are many different inks to choose from depending your desired outcome. We suggest using water-based inks when using a lighter fabric with a darker print. Using water-based ink will give the print a soft feel while also keeping a more environmentally friendly print option. For heavier prints, or printing light colors on a dark fabric, plastisol inks could be used. For light weight fabrics plastisol inks are considered to bulky or rough feeling for many clients. Plastisol inks are also less environmentally friendly since they contain PVC. When printing a light color on a dark fabric discharge inks can also be used. Discharge produces an extremely soft print that feels like the image has been dyed into the fabric, rather than an ink layer applied on top of the fabric. Discharge ink does increase the print cost significantly, but creates an excellent print when hand feel is an important factor.
//Embroidery/appliqué
We use Tajima machines to keep embroideries tight and well defined. Our experienced team of digitizers can follow the finest of details to assure the embroideries/appliques on your garments are of highest quality. We offer all stitch types including satin, bean, dashed, zig-zag and can do 3D embroideries. If you have an embroidery with a large area of fill stitching you may consider using an appliqué as option to keep costs down. When it comes to putting appliqués on garments the appliqué fabric options are limitless. We commonly use felt, twill, jersey-knit, denim, but can meet any appliqué requirements you may have. To keep costs minimal always simplify the design to have the least amount of individual pieces possible, so if you can keep the appliqué fabrics connected it will save on costs.