Presented by Heather Hogan
tenaciousgoods.com | @tenaciousgoods
Why Print on Fabric?
Printing on fabric is a creative way to customize clothing and accessories. Whether you’re making T-shirts, bags, or patches, there are many techniques to choose from—each with its own benefits and limitations.
This guide covers:
- Ways to add imagery to clothing
- Printing techniques, their benefits and limitations
- What you can and can’t do in a makerspace
Key Factors to Consider
- Type of Fabric: polyester, cotton, silk, linen
- Design: simple shapes, gradients, or detailed images
- Number of Colors: one color, 2–5 colors, or photo realism
- Reproducibility: how many do you need—just a few or a dozen?
- Wearability: is it comfortable to wear and wash?
Makerspace Printing Options
Ink Applied by Hand
- Hand-carved or laser-cut stamps – long-lasting, good for cotton, takes some skill
- HTV screen printing – stencil or screen method
- Machine-cut stencils – digital design applied with ink
Heat & Transfer / Machine Methods
- Heat transfer vinyl (Roland)
- Sublimation transfer (Mimaki)
- Pigment ink direct with heat set
- HTV + sublimation
- Iron-on transfers
- Embroidery machine
- Laser engraving
Digital & Modern Printing
- Direct to film
- Direct to garment
(Note: these machines may not be available in our makerspace yet)
Common Techniques
Hand Methods (Resist/Relief)
- Hand-carved stamps: custom, durable, detailed but labor-intensive
- Laser-cut stamps: digital precision, long-lasting
- Stencils: versatile, reusable, spray or dab ink
Heat & Transfer to Garments
- Heat transfer vinyl (HTV): cut and heat set; works on cotton; can peel with washes
- Sublimation transfer: for polyester; long-lasting
- Mimaki printer: direct to cotton/poly fabric; heat set; long-lasting
Pros & Cons at a Glance
| Method | Best For | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Transfer Vinyl (complex) | Prototypes, specialty designs | Plastic feel, tedious, peels with washes |
| Heat Transfer Vinyl (simple) | Multiple shirts, small designs | Plastic feel, peels with washes |
| Hand-carved/laser stamp | Handmade look, reproducible | Few colors, more labor |
| Sublimation transfer | Polyester shirts, patches, bags | Fabric limitations |
| Stencil | Handmade look, reproducible | Stencil can wear out, messy |
| Mimaki printer | Yardage, sewists, patches | Requires sewing, machine availability |
Advanced Option: Silk Screen Printing
Professional silk screen printing uses mesh screens, emulsion, and squeegees to create durable, high-quality prints. This method is commonly taught in courses like ART 361 Printmaking Survey or ART 365 Printmaking II.
Bottom line: There’s no single “best” method—it depends on your fabric, design, and project goals. Makerspace provides a range of accessible tools so you can experiment, learn, and create unique pieces.