Branding methods can significantly influence how your merchandise is perceived and what message it’s sending. Overwhelmed by the options? Below we breakdown some of the most popular methods and what they mean.
- Pad printing – Stamp it on!
As the name suggests pad printing is the process of transferring ink from a silicone pad onto a 3-D object- much like a stamp. It’s great for detailed logos and small print areas -think the barrel of a pen- but can only handle one-colour ink at a time. Depending on your item and complexity of the design there is potential to overlay 4 colours. - Screen Printing – Through the holes!
Screen printing involves the meticulous creation of a stencil on a fine mesh screen, through which ink is expertly pushed to imprint your design onto the surface below. It’s a go-to method for single-color designs that need to make a bold statement. However, keep in mind that for multi-color designs, each colour requires its own separate layer. - Digital Printing – Like your home printer, but cooler!
Think of digital printing as the high-tech cousin of your home printer. Your digital design gets added to the product using a laser or inkjet printer. Specialised printers are used for this process, making it ideal for intricate designs with high detail, colour, and resolution. - Embroidery- Stitched to perfection!
This automated process involves stitching threads into fabric by following a digitised design. It’s commonly used on shirts and headwear, but it can be applied to a wide range of fabrics and materials. Each thread colour is stitched individually, so you can let your creativity run wild. - 3D Embroidery – Stitched but make it pop!
Similar to flat embroidery, 3D embroidery adds a raised surface to your design. Foam is inserted under the top stitch to achieve a three-dimensional effect. - Laser Engraving- The laser magic!
Laser engraving transforms light energy into heat, gently etching your merchandise. The beauty of engraving is its subtlety—it doesn’t use any colours. Instead, it creates a natural, sophisticated etch that’s perfect for a refined touch. However, it’s best suited for certain surfaces like wood, metal, glass, and cork. - Blackened Laser Engraving- Still subtle but darker!
When engraving on metal or stainless steel, you can choose to “oxidize” laser engeaving resulting in a darkened decoration area for a subtle effect. - Sublimation
Perfect for applying full-colour photographs and multi-colour images to garments and other items. This process prints a transfer using specialised inks and papers, which is then heat-pressed onto the product. It works best with garments that are 65% to 100% polyester. - Emboss & Deboss: Stamp of Depth!
Embossing and debossing are like the cousins of pad printing. They involve a “stamp,” but here’s the twist: your logo gets moulded onto a metal plate, and then it’s pressed onto your item using heat and pressure. The result? A raised or indented logo that adds a touch of elegance and texture to your item.
At the end of the day, you don’t need to become an expert in these techniques. Our experienced team has the skills and know-how to handle all your branding needs.