There are so many techniques we can use to create your custom gear. Each method has pros and cons. Level 1 Custom Gear will work diligently with you to make sure you receive lasting and cost-effective gear. We take great pride in seeing our work in public looking as amazing as it did the day we created it.

SCREEN PRINTING

Screen printing is a printing technique where a mesh is used to transfer ink onto a substrate, except in areas made impermeable to the ink by a blocking stencil. ... One color is printed at a time, so several screens can be used to produce a multicoloured image or design.

PROS

Long lasting printing technique. Economical for large runs of T-shirt printing. Vibrant colours. Cost effective for bulk orders.

CONS

Short print run could be expensive due to the set up costs and multiple colour set ups. Each colour means a new screen and a new layer of ink. 

 

VINYL APPLICATION

Heat transfer vinyl, or HTV for short, is a specialty vinyl polymer that can be used on certain fabrics and materials to create designs and promotional products. It comes in a roll or sheet form with an adhesive backing so it can be cut, weeded, and placed on a substrate for heat application. Heat transfer vinyl is made in single colors and has special options such as patterned, glitter, flocked, holographic, glow-in-the-dark, reflective and 3D puff.

PROS

Great for short print runs. Perfect for names and numbers on the back of shirts and jerseys. Can add some special effects to clothing ie: reflective, holographic, glow in the dark.

CONS

Not best for designs with many small details. Special care when laundering.

 

EMBROIDERY

Machine embroidery is an embroidery process whereby a sewing machine or embroidery machine is used to create patterns on textiles. It is commercially used in product branding, corporate advertising, and uniform adornment. 

PROS

Long lasting design that will not fade over time. Professional look and feel.

CONS

Set up fees can be costly. Every job requires a digitized creation that can cost extra in fees.

DIGITAL TRANSFERS

With digital print heat transfer, the desired graphic is first digitally printed on special heat transfer paper using a solvent ink. This type of ink allows the design to be transferred from the paper to the item being printed when pressed with heat.

PROS

Best for full colours designs with lots of detail. Can be a cheaper alternative for short print runs. 

Cons

Special care with washing is required. Image may not last as long as other applications. Does not stretch so not the best for polyester or spandex materials.

 

SUBLIMATED

A dye-sublimation printer is a computer printer which uses heat to transfer dye onto materials such as a plastic, card, paper, or fabric. 

PROS

Vibrant colours that will not fade. The material is dyed so design options are endless and long lasting. Great for all over designs.

Cons

Best for only high polyester count materials. Typically there is no volume discounts making it not large-order friendly.

 

There you have it. A quick explanation of some of the processes we use to serve you. Reach out if you have any questions.