Discover essential sourcing and customization terms in our comprehensive glossary. Learn key definitions, industry jargon, and best practices related to creating custom products – from manufacturing and materials to printing and packaging.
Flat embroidery, also known as 2D embroidery, is a technique where thread is stitched directly onto fabric, creating a smooth, slightly raised design that offers a high-quality, tactile feel.
3D puff embroidery (also known as "foam embroidery") is a technique that uses foam under the stitching to create raised, three-dimensional designs with a bold, textured look.
Decalcomania, or decal printing, is a method where a design is first printed onto special transfer paper or film and then applied to an object’s surface to create a permanent decoration.
DTG printing is a modern digital method that uses inkjet technology to apply water-based ink directly onto fabric, producing full-color designs with sharp detail.
Flock printing, also known as flock screen printing, is a technique that applies short fiber particles onto a layer of adhesive to create raised, velvety designs with a soft, suede-like texture.
Heat transfer printing is a method that uses heat and pressure to apply a design from a printed transfer sheet onto fabric or other materials, making it great for colorful, detailed graphics.
Laser marking uses a focused laser beam to alter the surface of a material, creating permanent marks through color change, slight indentation, or raised detail.
Laser engraving is a process that uses a high-powered laser beam to vaporize the surface of a material, creating precise, permanent designs with adjustable depth.
Pad printing is a technique that uses a silicone pad to transfer ink from an etched plate onto objects of various shapes and materials, including plastic, metal, and glass.
Puff printing, also known as raised or 3D ink, is a screen printing technique that uses heat-activated additives in the ink to make it expand and form a raised, textured design on the fabric.
Sublimation printing, also known as dye sublimation, uses heat to transfer dye onto polyester-based materials via a printed transfer paper, producing vibrant, long-lasting designs that won’t crack or peel.
Ultraviolet (UV) printing is a digital printing process that uses UV-curable inks and ultraviolet light to instantly cure the ink, producing high-quality, fast-drying prints on a variety of surfaces.