Heat Transfer Labels for T-Shirts

Heat Transfer Labels for T-Shirts

When important information (such as washing and care instructions or fiber composition) needs to be added to garments, apparel manufacturers and their printing suppliers have three options: garment labels, heat transfer labels, and direct-to-garment printing. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, so in this article, LIJIE will outline their pros and cons to help make an informed decision on which textile label offers the best results at the most cost-effective price.

1. Garment Labels

Advantages:

1. Garment labels come in a variety of ribbon types, colors, and qualities, offering more options based on the images or branding required for the garment.

2. Printed labels can be offered in multi-layer formats, with double-sided printing for maximum content visibility or communication in multiple languages—ideal for manufacturers exporting overseas.

3. Labels can be directly supplied to apparel manufacturers for application before or during production.

4. Printed garment labels clearly display key product information as required by local and national laws, making them the best way to fulfill legal obligations.

5. Printed garment labels can feature detailed fine text or highly decorative graphics, which cannot be achieved with direct printing applications.

Disadvantages:

1. Apparel manufacturers must plan and order labels in advance to ensure they are available as needed during production.

2. Any delays in label delivery can result in order backlogs. Most apparel manufacturers rely on third-party suppliers to print labels, so the supply chain must run smoothly.

3. Ordering too many labels can cause excess inventory, while ordering too few can delay the delivery of finished garments.

2. Heat Transfer

Advantages:

1. Heat transfer is a popular method due to its simplicity. The label image is applied on special coated paper or transparent film. When pressure and heat are applied to the garment, the image seamlessly transfers onto the fabric.

2. Transfer prints can be as colorful or simple as needed, offering designers ample flexibility.

3. Heat transfer prints are very soft, making them ideal for garments that come into direct contact with the skin, such as T-shirts, underwear, and performance sportswear.

Disadvantages:

1. Apparel manufacturers must invest in specialized heat press machines, which require a strict maintenance schedule to ensure proper application of transfers. (Sometimes, the transfer manufacturer may provide the press as part of their service.)

2. Heat transfer is not suitable for all types of fabrics. A thorough check must be conducted before printing to prevent garment damage and revenue loss!

3. Heat transfer prints must be washed properly to prevent wear and tear; for example, garments must be turned inside out and washed at lower temperatures.

4. Printing errors are irreversible, so designs must be carefully checked, as any mistakes will result in returns.

5. The print may crack when stretched, causing the label to become unclear.

6. Apparel manufacturers must plan and order labels in advance to integrate them into the production process. Any delays can hinder orders and affect delivery timelines.

7. Like printed garment labels, ordering too many or too few labels can lead to supply chain issues.

3. Direct-to-Garment Printing:

Advantages:

1. Apparel manufacturers use pad printing technology to print directly onto products, saving time and ensuring garments are ready for shipment to meet customer demand.

2. No need for label inventory, so apparel producers don't face overstocking or understocking issues, which means they can more carefully control expenses.

3. Designs are easily transferred to materials because they can be directly transferred from digital software to the pad printing machine. All design changes are made through software, so no further adjustments are needed after printing.

4. Due to limited color options, printing time is much faster.

Disadvantages:

1. Errors in the labels cannot be undone, so care must be taken when reviewing completed digital designs.

2. If proper measures are not taken, designs may pixelate or blur.

3. Limited to monochrome applications.

4. Prints directly applied to garments may have a shorter lifespan, as the print can peel off during washing or tumble drying, or may crack when stretched.