From Concept to Print

Like many other companies, as the Pandemic hit the US in mid March we watched most of our business dry up overnight. In an effort to still engage with customers we looked to see what others in the industry were doing. Our findings reminded us why we have always valued design at the forefront of our process – because not many others are doing so. Many other firms that have sufficient funding and loyal clients aren’t putting enough emphasis on design. We don’t believe in making boring logo fitted apparel or fast fashion, we want to create staple, fashion forward, timeless apparel. We will take you through the process of how we start from a concept and go to production in just seven steps. 

Concept:

As trends come and go in apparel, the vintage, faded, worn design styles have become our signature look and the one we have the most experience with. Though we aren't stuck in our ways, in recent years we've had an interest in the sporty futuristic looks with bold graphics and message drive designs, and we are always open to the up and coming trends.

Mood Boards:

In order to start bringing the concept to life with visualization we love to use mood boards. We use pinterest to pull from current boards we are constantly adding to. This begins to materialize ideas that will later be simplified in sketching and designing.

Sketching:

This is when the designer gets the cue to begin. With the mood board in mind we start sketching to allow for a variety of multiple layouts. During the sketching process it’s easier to make changes rather than redesign digital art. Rather than create several options for a client to choose from we try and take the time to design intentionally from the start for the clients needs. 

Design:

This is the stage where talent and experience will make a real difference in quality design. Our designer has created thousands of original T-Shirt designs and knows how to incorporate the mood boards and sketches into a seamless process of creating print ready designs. 

Development:  

Now is when our knowledge in speciality inks and techniques is vital for producing high quality apparel. For most projects once the design is completed we narrow down which inks to use and make suggestions for which decorations will suit the clients needs. 

Testing:

While we have experience with countless projects printing on apparel can be a finicky art. So, we depend on seeing test prints and the ability to make adjustments. Sometimes small changes can make a huge difference when creating retail standard prints. Once we have the perfect artwork the magic of production begins.

Production:

We do well to remember less is more when it comes to production. Utilizing specialty inks and unique techniques can often make for a better T-shirt but isn't always necessary. Production needs to be replicatiable and must be profitable. Remembering this is important throughout the process. 

We want you to think beyond putting just a logo, or plain text on a tee. While this process may be more timely and more costly the benefits will be greater. Customers will notice the difference and see more value in your company when you invest in design. From concept to production be creative and go the extra mile.   

This blog was reworked from Jeremy Picker’s guest contribution to Screen Printing Magazine. Read the full article here.