Help Center / Apparel Printing Styles
Apparel Printing Styles
At Threadbird, our standard t-shirt and apparel printing style is called Premium Standard. In technical terms, we use a discharge under base with soft inks on top to create long lasting prints. We hold our inks quality to a higher standard than most print shops, and we're proud of that! 
About Our Inks & Processes


When choosing the best printing method for your designs, there are several important factors to consider, such as the complexity of artwork, the desired fabric type and the intended outcome. Our Threadbird team can offer guidance as to which method and ink type is best suited for your needs.

Premium Standard

A special hybrid style of shirt printing resulting in bright colors and soft prints.

premium_standard

Discharge Printing

Printing method that uses a waterbase ink to achieve soft prints on dark shirts.

discharge

Waterbase Printing

Similar to discharge printing, but for white and light garments. Super soft prints unite!

waterbase

Plastisol Printing

Plastisol printing is traditional screen printing at it's finest. Thicker, vibrant prints that sit on top of the shirt.

plastisol

Vybrasol Printing

Our specialty ink Vybrasol, resembles the vibrance of plastisol or premium standard with a soft to the touch feel. 

vybrasol

Process Printing

Sometimes called Simulated Process, this is designed to get the most detail for full-color images or photographs. 

process_0

Foil Printing

Uses sheets of foil to heat press the design on top of plastisol ink to create a print with a shiny effect. 

Foil Printing at Threadbird

Metallic Printing

Specialty mixed plastisol-based ink to create unique gold, silver, and bronze colors directly on your garment without heat press.

Metallic Printing

Direct-to-Film Transfer

Artwork is printed on a special film, then applied with an adhesive powder & heat, to press and transfer the design. 

directtofilm

Puff Ink Printing

A unique type of ink that rises when cured, giving a bold, 3D effect to your printed designs.

puffinkprinting

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a quick question? Check out our most commonly asked Apparel Printing Styles questions below.

What is the best printing method for hoodies and sweatshirts?

Screen printing with plastisol ink offers durability and bold color on thicker fabrics like hoodies. Embroidery is also a great option for logos.

What’s the best print option for soft, eco-friendly t-shirts?

Water-based screen printing provides a soft-hand feel and is more eco-conscious than plastisol. It's ideal for lightweight tees.
 

Which printing method works best for activewear?

Silicone transfers or sublimation are perfect for performance fabrics—they stretch with movement and resist cracking or fading.

How do I choose the right print style for my brand?

Consider your fabric type, design detail, budget, and aesthetic. Threadbird’s resource guides and support team can help you decide.
 

Can I see samples of different printing styles?

Yes—Threadbird provides photo examples online and offers physical samples by request so you can compare print types before committing.