What decoration techniques are there?

Many products in our web shop can be personalized using a lot of different techniques. But what does each technique mean and when do you best use which technique? Below we give an overview of our most used decoration techniques.

Embroidery

Embroidery is a classic decoration technique that gives a high-quality look to your product. It is suitable for both flat (such as clothing) and irregular surfaces (such as caps and backpacks) and you can use 8-12 colors. This method is not recommended for T-shirts, because the embroidery stiches will pull the thin fabric out of model.

3D embroidery

Make your logo stand out with a 3D embroidery or puff embroidery. When embroidering your product, embroidery foam is used, so that your logo comes out and thus a 3D effect is created. This technique is best suited for decorating caps.

Embossing/debossing

This method creates a unique 3D effect. This is a printing method in which text or a logo is applied to the surface to be printed by means of a heated mold. The text and logo remain the same color as the material. This technique is best suited for genuine and artificial leather (for example, on the cover of notebooks).

Color transfer

The color transfer or digital transfer opens up a range of possibilities from full color logos, color gradients and shadow effects. You can even print photos on items using this technique. The design to be printed is printed in mirror image on a special foil and then applied to the item with a heat press.

Digital print

Another good technique for logos with many colors and color gradients is digital printing. The product to be printed is held in a fixed position while the ink is ejected through the print head. This method can only be used on flat or slightly curved surfaces and is very interesting for small print runs.

Doming

Give your print a strong resistance to fading and damage with doming. During the doming process, a drop-shaped resinous layer (epoxy resin) provides a 3-D lens (like a dome) effect and also gives depth and clarity to colors. This technique is only possible on flat surfaces.

Flex

Do you want a name or number on your textile? Then flex is the recommended method. With a flex transfer, we start from a solid sheet where the excess is removed until only the imprint (name, number, text, logo ...) remains. Flex printing has a smooth and glossy appearance.

Engraving

For a high-class effect on metal, glass, and wood, opt for laser engraving. This technique uses a laser beam to engrave text, logos or drawings on the product. With some products it is even possible to personalize each piece separately with, for example, a name.

Hot stamping

With hot stamping you create a unique 3D effect with a luxurious look. This relief print has a metallic finish, an effect that is achieved by applying a foil layer between the relief stamp and the surface to be decorated. Ideal for real and imitation leather.

In mould labeling

The term "in mold labeling (IML)" actually explains what it is. With in-mold labeling, the printed label fuses with the product during the production process. This makes this technique very suitable for food packaging, such as reusable coffee cups.

Light up logo

Products get a special look with the light up logo personalization. The logo is engraved in the product. When the product is used, the logo on the product will light up. In many cases it is even possible to personalize the item individually with, for example, a name.

Sublimation

Digital sublimation is a process of printing photorealistic digital imagery on fabric. An image is printed on a transfer sheet and is then heat transferred to the fabric. Because this is a "one-off" process it is great for smaller orders.

Pad printing

Pad printing is a fast and economical way of printing. The logo is being transferred from the cliché via a silicone pad onto the object to be printed. However, the printable surface is small, and the surface should be flat or slightly curved.

Screen printing

Screen printing is a cost-effective solution for printing products in large quantities. This technique can only be applied to flat surfaces, such as umbrellas, textiles, totebags,... Screen printing has a matte appearance compared to flex and transfer printing.

Silkscreen transfer

Not all places are easily accessible for screen printing. For the more difficult to reach places, such as on a promotional gift or a print on a T-shirt sleeve, a silkscreen transfer can be used. This technique is widely used with caps, umbrellas, bags and softshells.