Our customers know what they love. Traditional high-quality screen printing, embroidery and laser engraving is often found on T-shirts, pens, mugs and other branded giveaways. But if you are looking for something a little different, try specialty imprinting.
We spoke with Mike, manager of digitizing, digital print and direct to garment here at 4imprint, for the lowdown on four of the latest imprint techniques—already offered by 4imprint—that could soon become customer favorites.
Leather patch engraving
Laser engraving is common on glassware, awards, metal pens and other promotional items with a logo. But now you can get the elegance of laser engraving on a leather or faux-leather patch. This allows for a rich-looking imprint that is slightly darker than the surrounding material. Since it is permanently burned into the patch, the logo lasts a long time. It differs from embossing because there is no pressure used to apply it, Mike said. Right now, it’s only offered on caps, but that could change in the future.
Digital patches
While embroidery can make elaborate designs, the thickness of the thread can limit fine detail. So, if your logo contains a lot of details, or you want something special that’s highly detailed, the digital patch is an ideal solution.
“The digital patch has been a great option to show the detail of certain logos,” Mike said.
A digital patch is a twill patch that is digitally printed in full color, then embroidered onto a cap or other apparel item. So far, it has been mostly used on caps. But Mike says it also works for shirts and blankets. And it’s growing in popularity.
3D puff embroidery
Take your logo to the next level by trying 3D puff embroidery. “It’s just an awesome technique for our customers,” Mike said.
Foam under the vibrant full-color embroidery helps it stand out from the cap, grabbing attention from everyone who passes by. Embroiderers receive special training to master this creative technique. Customers choosing the 3D puff embroidery option can also receive a sample cap with their logo to help them decide if they want to use this method for their branded giveaways, Mike said.
Direct to Garment
Traditional screen printing works well for bright, bold spot color graphics. But for photographic or highly illustrated images, direct to garment (DTG) printing excels. DTG uses an ink-jet printer that applies the ink directly to the garment, which gives it a higher resolution and slightly softer feel.
4imprint also offers the 4iDigital full-color heat transfer, which can be used on a variety of fabric types and locations—full-front, full-back, back yoke and even sleeve. Plus, there are metallic, reflective and clear vinyl options. This method is great for T-shirts, polos, tank tops, fleece jackets, and some bags and backpacks.
Stand out from the pack with an imprint method that’s guaranteed to grab attention.