Decorating Options

Hardhits offers local production for screen printing, embroidery, and heat-applied transfers. Each has strengths and weaknesses; some are good for big runs, and some are small. Below, you will find a detailed description of the processes with usage recommendations. Having local production allows Hardhits to be more adaptable in serving its customers. Have a last-minute print job? Hardhits can help!

Screen PriNting

Screen Printing for Apparel

Screen printing is a popular method for applying designs to clothing, especially t-shirts, hoodies, and other fabric items. It involves creating a stencil (or "screen") for each color in a design. The screen is placed over the garment, and ink is pressed through the open areas of the mesh using a squeegee. Each color is applied one at a time, and the garment is then heat-cured to set the ink.

Steps in the Process

  1. Design separation – Each color in the artwork is separated into individual layers.
  2. Screen preparation – A mesh screen is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion, then exposed to light with the design on top, hardening the emulsion except where the design blocks the light.
  3. Printing – The prepared screen is placed on the fabric, and ink is pushed through with a squeegee.
  4. Curing – The printed garment is run through a dryer to cure the ink, making it durable and washable.

 

Advantages of Screen Printing for Apparel

  • Vibrant, long-lasting colors – The ink sits on top of the fabric, creating bold, opaque prints that resist fading.
  • Cost-effective for bulk orders – Once screens are set up, printing large quantities is fast and economical.
  • Durability – Screen-printed designs withstand repeated washing without significant wear.
  • Versatility – Works on a wide range of garments, including cotton, blends, and synthetics.
  • Custom effects – Specialty inks (metallic, puff, glow-in-the-dark) can be used for unique finishes.

 

Screen Printing is ideal for bold designs with few colors, large batches, and garments meant to last.

Embroidery

Embroidery for Apparel

Embroidery is a method of decorating fabric by stitching thread directly into the garment to create logos, text, or designs. It's commonly used on items like hats, polos, jackets, and sweatshirts for a professional, textured look.

Steps in the Process

  1. Digitizing – The artwork is converted into a special embroidery file that maps out each stitch type, direction, and thread color.
  2. Hooping – The garment is secured in a hoop to keep the fabric tight and in place.
  3. Stitching – An embroidery machine uses multiple needles and threads to sew the design onto the fabric automatically.
  4. Finishing – Excess backing material is trimmed, and the garment is cleaned up for a polished appearance.

 

Advantages of Embroidery for Apparel

  • Professional and durable – Embroidery has a high-end, tactile finish and can last for the life of the garment.
  • Long-lasting – Unlike prints, embroidery won’t fade, crack, or peel over time.
  • Great for small runs – Especially cost-effective for low-quantity or premium items.
  • Versatile placement – Works well on structured or thick materials like hats, bags, and jackets.
  • Elevated look – Adds texture and dimension, ideal for corporate apparel and uniforms.
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Embroidery is best for simpler designs, especially logos or text, and for items meant to convey a premium or professional feel.

Transfers

Heat-Applied Transfers for Apparel

Heat-applied transfers are a decoration method in which a pre-printed design is transferred onto a garment using heat and pressure. These designs are typically printed on special transfer paper or film using screen printing, digital printing, or vinyl cutting. A heat press bonds the design permanently to the fabric.

Steps in the Process

  1. Design creation – The artwork is prepared digitally and either printed (using ink or toner) or cut from colored vinyl.
  2. Transfer prep – The design is placed on a carrier sheet, sometimes with adhesive backing.
  3. Application – The garment is positioned in a heat press, and the transfer is applied with high heat and pressure for a specific time.
  4. Peeling – Once cooled or hot-peeled (depending on the transfer type), the carrier sheet is removed, leaving the design adhered to the fabric.

 

Advantages of Heat-Applied Transfers

  • Great for full color and detailed designs – Especially good for gradients, photographs, and complex artwork.
  • No setup screens required – Ideal for small runs or one-off custom pieces.
  • Fast and on-demand – Transfers can be printed in advance and applied quickly when needed.
  • Works on a variety of fabrics – Including cotton, polyester, blends, and performance wear.
  • Low waste and flexible inventory – Easy to keep stock of blank garments and apply designs as needed.
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Heat transfers are perfect for short runs, personalization (like names and numbers on jerseys), or designs that require lots of color and fine detail.

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