Decoration Dictionary

Included below is some "Merchology Terminology" of the different decoration options we offer, along with examples of when best to use them. Photos are also included to provide a better idea of what each decoration method will look like. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us.

Embroidery

By far our most popular decoration style! The logo on your screen first needs to be "digitized"; mapped out for an embroidery machine based on the intricacies of a logo & its colours. From there, the appropriate thread colours are chosen, a sample stitchout is run, and once approved, your order is put on embroidery machines that read the final digitized file and embroider your logo to its exact specifications.

“When should I use this?” Embroidered logos typically look best on polos, jackets, woven shirts, caps, and bags, but this is a truly versatile style of decoration. We've embroidered just about every style of apparel & accessory on our site!

Screen Printing

An easy way to think about this is as a photographic stencil process. A stencil is created and then is used to apply layers of ink directly onto a product. The result is the screen's image transferred to the print surface. The versatility of this decoration method allows it to be used on a wide variety of items.

“When should I use this?” Screen printing is the most cost-effective method for large quantity print runs, around 50+ items, and works especially well with items like t-shirts and tanks. A complex design with many different colours requires different stencils for each colour, so this decoration method is best for logos with 4 colours or less..

Heat Transfer

If you have ever used an iron to press a decal onto a shirt then you know the basis of heat transfer, but our method is exceptionally more advanced. There are three types of heat transfer that we use for decorations: Digital Printing, Digital Applique, and Vinyl Transfer.

Digital Printing

Think about this in reference to printing a document from your computer. An image is created with no restraints to the number of colours or type of artwork used, and the image is printed or affixed directly onto the material. With embroidery & screen printing, you are dealing with physical resources (thread & ink) to create a logo; with digital printing, full colour, high definition logos can be done economically, even in small quantities.

“When should I use this?” Commonly used as a substitute for screen printing on smaller orders, digital printing also works well with logos that require a high amount of detail, or are very graphic heavy. This is also a commonly used option for logos that contain a gradient, as the print can closely match the digital version seen on a computer screen.

Digital Applique

This method takes the 3D texture of embroidery and combines it with the visual impact of full-colour printing to create something different and unique. Uses a process that allows you to imprint full colour photo images directly onto a single layer of twill.

“When should I use this?” Digital applique creates incredible detail while saving on stitch count. Great for logos that contain a lot of detail, for example a patch or logo for a fire department. The bright colours available will add liveliness to any design.

Vinyl Transfer

This transfer process uses heat to activate and attach a vinyl sticker to fabric. Vinyl is soft to the touch with great stretch and is durable enough for sportswear.

“When should I use this?” Vinyl transfer has especially great durability. Perfect for uniforms and jerseys, as they are worn frequently and go through a lot of wear and tear. This decoration option is extremely dependable wash after wash.

Debossing

Debossing gives your logo a 3D element. Dies are constructed from metal in the shape of your logo. Heat and pressure push into the product and form the material into the impression you want. This decoration method produces stunning & sophisticated results.

“When should I use this?” Perfect for products where subtle and high perceived value is appropriate. A crisp debossing adds lasting value to items used every day as well as unique dimension and quality to your product. Ideal products are leather goods such as padfolios, money clips, or luggage tags.

Laser Engraving

A unique application where the laser removes a thin layer of fibre or pigment dye. By adjusting the intensity and speed of the laser we can sculpt dimension into the design, resulting in stunning clarity and precision.

“When should I use this?” This decoration method creates sharp, crystal-clear logos that are unable to be peeled off. Ideal for items that get continuous use such as pens.