Imprinting Techniques

Promotional products can be customized using many different imprinting and decoration methods. The appropriate method depends on the product, its material, the artwork and the decoration options available for that particular item.

Below are explanations of several common imprinting techniques used on promotional merchandise. Not every method is available on every product, so always review the individual product specifications for available decoration options.

Screen Printing / Silk Screening

Screen printing uses a screen or mesh to transfer ink onto a product through open areas of a prepared stencil. Depending on the artwork and printing process, separate screens may be required for different imprint colors. Screen printing is commonly used on apparel, bags and many other promotional products.

Embroidery

Embroidery creates a design with thread stitched directly into a product using computerized embroidery equipment. Before embroidery, artwork is generally converted into a stitch file through a process called digitizing. Embroidery is frequently used on caps, shirts, jackets, bags and other textile products.

Four-Color Process Printing

Four-color process printing reproduces full-color artwork using combinations of cyan, magenta, yellow and black, commonly referred to as CMYK. The colors are combined during printing to reproduce a broad range of colors and tones.

Offset Printing / Lithography

Offset printing transfers an inked image from a printing plate to an intermediate surface and then onto the material being printed. It is commonly associated with printed paper products and other applications suited to this printing process.

Sublimation

Dye sublimation uses heat to transfer specially prepared dye into a compatible surface or material. Because the design becomes part of the receptive surface rather than simply sitting on top of it, sublimation is often used for products designed specifically for this decoration method.

Laser Engraving

Laser engraving uses a laser to mark or remove a portion of a product's surface, creating the design directly on the material. The final appearance depends on the product and the material being engraved.

Etching

Etching creates a design by altering the surface of a material. The specific etching process can vary depending on the product and material being decorated.

Pad Printing

Pad printing transfers ink from an etched printing plate to a product using a flexible pad. Because the pad can conform to different surfaces, this method is commonly used for smaller products and items with curved or irregular shapes.

Heat Transfer / Thermal Transfer

Heat transfer methods use heat and pressure to apply a design to a compatible product or material. Different types of transfer processes may be used depending on the product, artwork and desired result.

Embossing and Debossing

Embossing creates a raised design on a surface, while debossing presses a design into the surface to create a recessed impression. These methods are often used where a dimensional appearance is desired.

Decal Transfer

Decal transfer uses a separately prepared printed design that is transferred to the product. Certain decal processes may include firing or other finishing steps and are commonly associated with products such as glassware and ceramics.

Hot Stamping

Hot stamping uses heat and pressure to transfer a design onto a product, often with a foil or similar material. The available finishes and applications depend on the product being decorated.

Die-Struck / Die-Stamping

Die-striking uses a die and pressure to create a design in metal. This process may be used for items such as medals, coins, emblems and other metal products designed for this type of manufacturing or decoration.

What Is a Die?

A die is a specialized tool used to form, cut, press or create a design in another material. The type of die and the way it is used depend on the manufacturing or decoration process.

Letterpress Printing

Letterpress is a relief-printing method in which raised areas of a printing surface carry ink and transfer the design to the material being printed. It is an older printing technique that may still be used for certain applications.

Which Imprinting Method Will Be Used?

The decoration method available for your order depends on the individual promotional product. Materials, product shape, imprint area, artwork and the manufacturer's available decoration options can all affect which methods can be used.

Check the specifications on the individual product page or contact Garrett Specialties if you have questions about the imprinting options available for a particular item.

Phone: (800) 320-1510