Understanding Discharge & Waterbase Printing
Customers frequently ask us about the discharge printing process or water-based printing and why it works on some garments but not others. There’s a lot of information floating around promising that discharge will or will not work, but oftentimes the information lacks insight about the effectiveness or limitations of the ink.
You may already know that discharge ink is primarily used on 100% cotton garments. The ZFS interacts only with Cotton. It does not interact with Polyester or any other materials. To achieve an even color across your print, 100% cotton will create the best results for discharge prints. However, this does not mean that 100% cotton is the only material that you can use with discharge inks.
In the photo above, the 100% cotton shirt in the middle has a very even and consistent white color, while the tri-blend (50% Cotton, 25% Polyester, 25% Rayon) on the left shows the heathering of the garment through the ink and the 50% Cotton/50% Polyester on the right has a very muted mid-range grey print. Results can be somewhat inconsistent and aren’t guaranteed to have an even texture depending on how the knit in the shirt is blended. If the knit is inconsistent (patches of cotton or poly and not even heather) the print will look inconsistent. This is not something that printers can account for, nor does it really qualify as a misprint, it’s just the nature of the beast when using these inks.
Now that you’ve committed all of these things to memory, let’s throw another wrench in the system when using discharge and heathered 50/50 material. Some manufacturers blend their garments so that the white “heathering” of the shirt is polyester and the colored portion of the garment is cotton, garnering a better discharge effect. This is a great chance to do something out of the ordinary that usually cannot be accomplished. However, not all heathered 50/50’s discharge well, and it’s largely a case-by-case scenario. If you have a project that you think would be a suitable option for using discharge on a 50/50, just ask us and we’ll be happy to look into it for you. Below is a picture of a print using 4 colors, the white is discharge, the grey, black, and red are waterbase.
The Question: “When is it ok to use discharge on a tri-blend or a 50/50?”.
The Answer: “Only when you’ve done your research and you know what is best for your project or brand.”
We hope you have learned something after reading this post. If you have any questions please reach out to us. We would love to answer any questions you may have to make sure that you get the best results possible.
[email protected] / (407) 545-6506
There are numerous success stories that start with a hobby growing naturally into a business. Many aspire to follow a similar path, just like this cowgirl from Texas. Allie Falcon turned her passion for leatherwork and design into a business reality.
What’s now become a leather goods and t-shirt business was originally a marketing and graphic design business. Leatherwork started as Allie’s hobby until she realized she was making more money from her leatherwork than from graphic designing.
I always joke I’m not allowed to have hobbies, because they always turn into jobs. :)
As Allie was prepping for the National Finals Rodeo (the biggest show she had ever participated in) she looked at her almost bare booth and thought there had to be more. Driving home one night, Allie’s husband suggested making t-shirts. Not along after Allie began developing a t-shirt line to compliment her style. Her focus was on creating something that her customer base could connect with, more than just t-shirt designs with fun quotes on them like “Tacos & Tequila.”
I just didn’t see anything in the western market that was art on its own. There were quotes on everything. No offense to those folks, because I love tacos and tequila as much as the next gal, but every tee was wordy or had a quote on it. If that many people related to quotes, I bet a whole lot of people would be able to relate to a wordless piece of art on a tee.
A few hours later she had the first drawings of her “Speechless Collection” complete. Allie wanted her collection to represent every western woman. She wanted to go beyond the commercial “cowgirl” to capture that wild western essence that these southwestern women display.
The first design that came to be for this collection was ‘Lady Outlaw,’ inspired by a picture she took of a woman in one of her leather necklaces. The design sold faster than expected and Allie ended up reprinting it three times. Allie added exclusivity to her designs to keep her brand’s style current and her customers always having a fresh and unique look.
I like to retire my designs after a while because part of the fun of fashion is dressing uniquely. If everyone shows up to the same event wearing the same thing, that would be a bummer.
Allie’s t-shirt business stemmed from her passion for leatherwork. Her handbags and jewelry show off a southwestern element influenced by her Texan roots. Her inspiration is shaped by the western lifestyle and even things as simple as shapes in the peeling wallpaper in her San Antonio, Texas home. Allie’s designs are her essence in its purest form.
To this day Allie is at home with her ranch lifestyle. “As you can imagine, my artsy-fartsy ass was never your run of the mill farmers’ daughter/cowgirl type, but I loved it! Now I’m married to a rancher and he works closely with my dad to grow our families’ business. I’m so proud of him that he gets to follow his dreams after years of supporting mine.”
Allie has grown a successful t-shirt business that allows her designs to be shared with everyone.
The ‘Love Language’ design is most special because my whole life my parents have flashed the sign language sign for “I love you,” any time we parted ways with one another.
Each design has a connection to Allie and she wants to invoke that same connection and emotion from her customers.
When it comes to choosing blank garments, Allie is a Bella + Canvas fan. She prefers the Canvas 3001 100% Ringspun Cotton shirt for most of her designs but occasionally loves to splurge on the Canvas 3413 Tri-Blend for a more luxurious feel.
Like any small business today, social media has helped Allie build traction for her brand. Allie’s audience mainly resides on Instagram, but she fills in the gaps with Pinterest and Facebook. However, Allie doesn’t just limit her brand to social media alone. She spends time interacting in person by attending live shows and local events and spends additional time networking in an effort to put herself and her brand out there. Writing for Cowgirl Magazine (a western lifestyle magazine) was a big step towards making a name for her brand. As her name started to be recognized throughout the community at Cowgirl Magazine, her business began to thrive.
Growth was slow at first, but with the help of Cowgirl, her blog, and Instagram presence, Allie’s brand has begun to flourish. “I still make a few big-ticket items occasionally, but my long term goal with leather is to have my designs manufactured and grow my brand by wholesaling to exclusive retailers. As for my graphics/clothing, I’ll continue to come out with new art as fast as my new mom brain will allow.” Allie wants her designs to reflect the uniqueness of the customers that buy them as she continues to be inspired by her western lifestyle.
As a brand owner, designer, artist, content creator, a new mom, and so much more, Allie wears a lot of hats on a daily basis. She offers this advice to others looking to start their brand:
Be yourself. Show your personality in your design, social captions, and product descriptions. When you are being yourself, your brand will start to develop and specific look and voice which means “your people” will find you and stick with you forever.
And...
Be your biggest advocate. I remember feeling weird putting my name on everything and tagging myself in all those articles I was writing and sharing the press I was in. It can feel a little like, “Hey, look what I did! See how cool I am?” But honey, ain’t no one going to do that stuff for you in the beginning! LOL!
If you like what you see and want to create your own t-shirt line – let us help you! Click here to get started with Threadbird.
Showcase Your Stuff - Photography 101: Finding a camera
A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
Without a picture, it’s hard for others to imagine your vision. Images are an important tool for your brand when selling any product. They not only show off the color and details of the product, but they help to create an identity around your brand. Let’s go over some basics that will help you take some killer pictures for your social media and website.
Cameras
Cameras are a complex subject that can often be difficult to understand, so it’s important to do your research. You’ll want a camera that has all the features you need, from the simple to the complicated. Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Even if you’re a beginner there are many camera options on the market that produce quality photos and won’t break your budget.
Here are some of our favorites (ranked by price):
iPhone
Image from ShotKit
With today’s advances in technology, camera phones are getting so good that they’re starting to rival expensive cameras. Taking high-quality photos with your phone is easier than it’s ever been. Just set your camera in “Portrait Mode”, switch the function to HDR and you’ll be taking high-definition photos close to DSLR quality.
Apps like Lightroom and VSCO give you the ability to edit your images right from your phone the instant a photo is taken. The biggest downside to using a phone for editing is the occasional limitations with file sizes. You might run into issues displaying your images on a larger scale, like on a website, versus on a social media app.
Point and Shoot Cameras
Image of Canon SX740
Point and shoot cameras are simple - all the user has to do is point at the subject and shoot the photo. Point and shoot cameras are classic digital cameras that remove the complexity of lens changes and settings adjustments. These are the perfect cameras for beginners who don't have a lot of photography knowledge.
Point and shoot model options:
- Canon Power Shoot G7 x Mark II – A top of the line point and shoot. This well-made camera by Canon allows you to shoot in manual and capture 4K video.
- Canon Power Shot SX740 – With options like time-lapse, 4K video, and incredible zoom power, this is a great camera to bring along to your next shoot.
- Olympus Tough TG-6 – This waterproof camera is great to capture all the action and adventure happening outdoors. It features 4K video capabilities with 12 megapixels. This camera is great for any outdoor brands since it performs well in tough conditions and low light.
Cropped-Frame DSLR Camera
Image of Canon Rebel
Any brand just starting out and looking to create their own content that can stand out on social media as well as websites should consider looking into a cropped-frame DSLR camera. Typically the lower-end of the DSLR cameras, these are DSLR cameras with a smaller frame. Cropped-Frame DSLR cameras allow you to customize your settings and add lenses, but will also require some basic camera knowledge.
Cropped-frame camera options:
- Nikon D7500 – A fantastic mid-level cropped-frame, this camera has all sorts of high-end DSLR features while still maintaining a cropped-frame and lower price point.
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 – This entry-level Canon camera has all the great features of a DSLR camera but with a much more manageable body.
Full-Frame DSLR Camera
Image of Canon 5D Mark iv
Maybe you’ve used a camera a time or two and you really want to upgrade to take high-quality images for full-page images on your website, blog, or even in print.
A full-frame DSLR has a larger sensor area, allowing for a deeper depth of field and the ability to use wide-angle lenses. If you think you might be taking a lot of pictures and want them to be super high-quality you should consider diving into a top of the line DSLR camera.
Full-Frame DSLR options:
- Canon 5D Mark iv – The newest Canon is a full-frame camera with all of the bells and whistles. With the ability to take 4K video you aren’t limited with what you can do with this camera at all.
- Nikon D850 – Nikon’s mid-level DSLR is the perfect full-frame camera for enthusiasts who know a bit about cameras and want to do more. It can even take 4K video too.
Mirrorless DSLR Camera
Image of Sony A7R
New to the market, mirrorless cameras are the future of digital camera technology. A standard camera has a mirror inside that reflects the image through the lens in order to capture it. But with a mirrorless camera, the image is captured completely digitally.
Mirrorless cameras are increasing in popularity due to their ability to take striking 4K video and perform exceptionally well in low lighting.
The top mirrorless camera on the market:
- Sony A7R iv – This high-quality mirrorless camera is lighter and more compact than it’s other DSLR friends. The body of the camera is much sleeker due to its use of microlenses, allowing it to be easily held by any user. With 61.0 Megapixels, 10.0 fps, and ISO 32000 this camera has absolutely everything you could ask for - even some of the highest quality 4K video out there on a DSLR.
Process (Simulated) Apparel Printing
This is the printing style that you will want to use when you have a full-color design or a photograph. We are huge fans of Simulated Process Screen Printing in these situations, versus Four Color Process printing. We know that we can get better results every time with Simulated Process. But, every design is unique, so it's best that you show your Customer Service Representative the artwork and they can tell you the best way to print it!
Due to the difficulty involved, there is a 1-time setup fee to get your artwork ready for printing.
Examples of Simulated Process Printing
Process Printing FAQs
What is the difference between Four Color Process and Simulated Process Printing?
Four Color Process printing, also known as CMYK, uses only 4 colors to achieve your photorealistic image (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow and Black). This 4 color screen printing process is typically performed on white or light-colored garments and will not produce prints with a high amount of color detail.
Simulated Process printing goes above and beyond Four Color Process by blending in standard spot colors to achieve high amounts of photorealistic detail. This screen printing process works well on both light and dark-colored garments. (Note: We're really good at this. Take a look at the photos above.)
How do I know which process to use with my unique artwork?
Don't worry, let us decide! We're experts in this category and want you to have the best experience and the best product possible. Our Customer Service Representative are trained to determine the best method of printing for your unique design.
Are there any fees or restrictions with Process Printing?
Yes. Photorealistic and complex designs require time and attention to re-create. The following fees and restrictions apply:
- Setup Fee: $15 per color to separate the colors in your artwork. Your Customer Service Representative can tell you how many colors your art has once separated.
- Minimum Quantity: 100 Total Garments per Design
- Loss of Detail: Some detail will be lost from the original artwork. Read our Process Printing Warnings Page for more information.
What is process printing?
This is the print style that you will want to use when you have a full-color design or a photograph. We are huge fans of Simulated Process Screen Printing in these situations, versus Four Color Process.
Learn more about Simulated Process Printing at Threadbird on our Apparel Printing Styles page.
Custom Gaiters
Gaiters to Guard You
Single-Layer or Double-Layer choose your level of protection for your custom printed neck gaiter. Create a fully printed gaiter that is meant to protect you inside and outside.
Product Specs
Single Layer Gaiters
Starting @ $5.05/each for 100
- Single-layer 100% polyester neck gaiter
- Full-color sublimation all-over print
- Multi-functional as a mask, scarf, bandana, headband, etc.
- Reusable & Washable
- All over color print
- One size fits most
- Production time 2 to 3 weeks
Double Layer Gaiters
Starting at $6.15 for 100
- Double-layer cotton/polyester neck gaiter
- Outside layer features polyester for protection
- Inside layer features cotton for comfort
- Full-color sublimation all-over print
- Multi-functional as a mask, scarf, bandana, headband, etc.
- Reusable & Washable
- All over color print
- One size fits most
- Production time 3 to 4 weeks
| QTY | 100 | 250 | 500 | 1,000 | 2,500 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Mask | $5.05 | $4.40 | $4.05 | $3.45 | $3.00 |
| Price does not include shipping. | |||||
| QTY | 50 | 100 | 250 | 500 | 1,000 | 2,500 | 5,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Mask | $6.50 | $6.15 | $5.60 | $5.10 | $5.10 | $4.25 | $4.00 |
| Price does not include shipping. | |||||||
Make your Custom Face Mask
Create custom face masks to protect your employees, customers, or your fans! Using sublimation you can create a totally unique all-over design or pattern to really stand out in a crowd.
New to Screen Printing
First, a Little Screen Printing History...
Screen printing was a technique first used by the Chinese almost 2000 years ago. Human hair was stretched across a wooden frame to create a screen. Stencils made from leaves were then attached to the screens. This is considered to be the first application of screen printing.
Later, the Japanese adopted the screen printing process and used woven silk to create the mesh and lacquers to make stencils. The use of silk is where screen printing got its alternative name "Silk Screening".
When it comes to apparel printing, screen printing is the industry standard for superior quality. Most graphic tees sold in major retail stores have been screen printed. The process is designed to make garments bold in appearance yet cost effective at the same time.
Today, screen printing is accomplished by making a mesh stencil (called a screen) for each color that needs to be printed. Screens must be lined up (or registered) and printed on test sheets to ensure that all of the colors line up correctly. Inks are then pushed through the screens one color at a time onto the apparel. Finally, each piece is run through a large dryer to cure the inks.
Want to know more screen printing information, check out this article we wrote on the screen printing process or this Wikipedia article
Screen printing is designed to be printed in bulk. The printing part of the process is actually the fastest part. All the costs and time are in the setup. This is why the cost per shirt goes down the more you print per design.
A lot of work goes into getting a shirt ready to print and requires almost every employee at the company. Artwork has to be mocked up and films have to be created. After this, the screens department converts the film into screens. Next, the printers setup the presses to run the shirts. It takes a good bit of time to setup a press to run shirts.
Because of this we cannot print 1 shirt at a time as it would easily cost $150+ to do. The smallest order of shirts we will do is 24 of the same design.
A lot of factors go into the final cost of a screen printed tee. We have tried to make things as simple as possible, starting with providing free screens & setup fees. We also provide our special underbase free of charge. You just need to decide what garment you would like to print on, how many shirts you want of each design and how many ink colors will be in the design.
Check out our Screen Printing Pricing Charts or drop us an email and we can send you a full quote.
Picking out a brand and style can sometimes be the hardest part of the process. There are many different options, catered to different situations and personal preferences. We've attempted to help eliminate some of the confusion on our brands and styles pages to make printing shirts easier.
If you can think of a color, we can print it. The hard part is telling us what the color is. The only true way to do this is by providing us with a PMS color #. To do this you need a Coated Pantone Book. Find the color you want and give us the number next to it.
If you don't know exactly what colors you need, no problem. We will do our best to pick them out for you but cannot guarantee a perfect outcome (this is called "PMS Color Matching"). Every computer monitor is different, so the colors on your screen will look different when displayed on the monitors in our art department.
Your print will only be as good as the artwork you provide. All files need to be at least 300 dpi or vector format & sized to the size it should be printed. Learn more about prepping your artwork files for screen printing.
Most companies charges a screen fee and/or setup fee on top of the printing charge, which can range from $15 to $30 for every color that needs to be printed. That's not how we operate. Our goal is to streamline the process and make you confident in your final product.
At Threadbird, there's nothing "standard" about our standard printing process. We believe that you shouldn't have to pay extra to get a great quality print. We use a special hybrid style of printing, applying a discharge underbase with our special soft inks on top. The outcome is a beautiful, bright, super-soft print (even on dark colored shirts). And they only get softer after you wash the shirts!. We have won multiple awards using this premium screen printing method method and it's all done at no additional charge to you.
(Note: Discharge only works on 100% cotton shirts.)
In order for a print to be perfect you have to print on a smooth, flat surface. Any print that goes over a seam, collar or any other uneven surface will never be perfect because the screens cannot lay flat on the garment. We always recommend staying away from any printing that will go over seams but we will gladly do it at your request.
Note: Threadbird will not accept responsibility or provide refunds for garments that have print errors due to printing over any seam.
"All-Over" printing is accomplished using a process called cut-and-sew, in which the fabric is printed prior to being made into a t-shirt. This is a service that Threadbird does not currently offer. We can print on jumbo screens which are 23.5 inches tall by 17.25 inches wide. This will cover most of the front of a shirt on an adult small not including the sleeves.
Due to the nature of the screen printing process it is very common for a shirt or 2 to be missing from your order. Shirts can get damaged during the printing process or we might get shorted by the vendor. In order to keep prices down, we cannot order extra shirts. Please keep this in mind when ordering (it is never a bad idea to order extras).
We always do our best to get you what you ordered. Whatever you don't receive will be refunded or credited to you.
Want to take your product and your brand to the next level? Let us help you customize! We have all types of different finishing options like Custom Tagging & Bagging.
Value Face Masks
Value Face Masks
If you’re looking for quality on a budget our value face mask can be perfect for your brand.
Affordable Pricing
Our pricing model is simple and easy to follow so you can get the best price for your business and brand with the quantity you need!
| QTY | 50 | 100 | 200 | 500 | 1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Per Mask | $5.50 | $5.00 | $4.60 | $3.85 | $3.30 |
| Price does not include shipping. | |||||
Sublimation allows for a truly custom face mask. Add a unique design, your logo, or an all-over pattern to create a branded look for each mask.
Made with 100% polyester on the outside and 95% cotton / 5% spandex inside, this face mask is washable and comfortable. The universal mask design will fit almost everyone.
Each value face mask features a pocket inside for extra protection. A filter can be placed in the pocket to block out dust, germs and small particles.
Make your Custom Face Mask
Create custom face masks to protect your employees, customers, or your fans! Using sublimation you can create a totally unique all-over design or pattern to really stand out in a crowd.
What is screen printing?
Screen printing is when ink is pressed through mesh screens (think of them as stencils) onto a t-shirt or other textile to create a printed design. Any additional finishings are added once printing is complete. If you want to read more, click here.
Custom Face Coverings
Custom Face Coverings
Whether it’s a Custom Neck Gaiter or a Custom Face Mask, we can help you create the best custom face coverings for your team or brand. Click a Product below for Base Pricing & Options.
Looking for protection and quality? Our custom gaiters allow you to create a fully sublimated design on a budget.
Gaiters to Guard You
Single-Layer or Double-Layer Custom Neck Gaiters, choose your level of protection.
Get Inspired
We began offering custom face masks as an additional way for brands to help their customers in a time of need. Since then our clients have been inspired to create custom face covering designs that offer optimal protection while keeping with the essence of their brand.
Make your Custom Face Mask
Create custom face masks to protect your employees, customers, or your fans! Using sublimation you can create a totally unique all-over design or pattern to really stand out in a crowd.