The Material Behind T-Shirt Graphics: A Comprehensive Guide

T-shirts have become a popular medium for self-expression, advertising, and art. With the rise of social media, there has been an increase in tutorials on DIY T-shirt projects, allowing people to put their unique spin on this wardrobe essential. T-shirt graphics can be made using various methods, including screen printing, heat transfer vinyl, dye-sublimation printing, airbrushing, embroidery, and more. The most common form of commercial T-shirt decoration is screen printing, which uses plastisol or water-based inks applied through mesh screens. T-shirts are typically made of cotton, a natural fibre that is comfortable, soft, and breathable, making it an ideal canvas for vibrant and creative designs.

Plastisol ink

However, plastisol inks are not as eco-friendly as some other options and can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly. They are also not as breathable as water-based inks, so they may be uncomfortable in hot weather. Plastisol inks also have a heavier hand feel, which some people may not prefer.

Water-based ink

Printing with water-based inks requires a higher level of skill and attention to detail. The ink must be mixed properly and applied evenly to the fabric. If the ink is applied too thickly, it can cause the fabric to become stiff and uncomfortable.

Overall, water-based inks are a more sustainable and affordable option for T-shirt printing, but they are less commonly used due to the limitations in design and the higher level of skill required for printing.

Tie-dye

Choosing Colours:

The right colour choices can make your design pop against the tie-dye background. Consider selecting colours that complement and contrast with the tie-dye pattern. For example, if your shirt features bright colours, a bright white design can stand out. Alternatively, opt for darker tones on lighter shirts, or vice versa, to create a bold statement.

There are several common tie-dye patterns to choose from, each with its unique look:

• Spiral: A classic swirl pattern, often seen as the quintessential tie-dye design.
• Tiger Stripes: Vertical stripes that do not converge in the centre.
• Spider: Arms that fan out randomly from the centre, creating a unique, organic look.
• Pinwheel: A combination of the spiral and spider patterns, offering the best of both worlds.
• Crystal/Crumple: Random, jagged-edged patterns with an organic, natural feel.
• Vintage: A minimal, crumpled pattern with a faded look, perfect for a subtle effect.

Design Simplicity:

Font Choices:

When adding text to your design, choose bold, simple fonts that are easy to read. Intricate or thin fonts may become lost or difficult to decipher against the colourful tie-dye background. You can also add an outline or shadow effect to your text to enhance its visibility further.

Print Locations:

Experiment with different print locations to create a unique and personalised t-shirt. Consider printing on the back, sleeves, or hood of a hoodie for a surprising and distinctive touch.

Testing Your Design:

Before finalising your creation, test your design with a print or digital mockup to see how it looks on the tie-dye shirt. This step will help you identify any necessary adjustments to ensure a successful final product.

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to creating stunning tie-dye t-shirt designs that are sure to turn heads!

Screen printing

Plastisol, invented in 1959, is the most widely used ink for screen printing. It offers more durability and stretchability than water-based ink, allowing for greater design variety. Plastisol is also favoured because it can be printed on different coloured fabrics without requiring colour adjustments at the art level. However, only a few companies continue to use water-based inks, which are less durable and require colour adjustments when printing on varying fabrics.

Specialty inks, such as shimmer, puff, discharge, and chino-based inks, come in and out of fashion. These inks are more expensive to purchase, screen, and tend to be found on boutique garments. A metallic foil can also be applied to plastisol ink through heat pressing, creating a mirror-like effect.

DTG printing

Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is a method of printing that uses a high-tech inkjet printer to apply digital designs and images directly onto a T-shirt. DTG printing offers a full-colour, high-resolution design that is long-lasting and becomes part of the fabric. The process is similar to that of a traditional inkjet printer but for apparel.

The design process for DTG printing is simple and can be done using Photoshop or Illustrator. The artwork should be saved as a file type that preserves the quality of the image, such as TIFF or PDF. Once the design is created, it is then cut through the material using a vinyl cutter (or Cut n Press) machine. After the design is cut, the "weeding" process begins, where the areas of the design that are not needed are removed so that the intended design remains.

Frequently asked questions