FAQ
Care and Maintenance
Please see options below for care and maintenance of your custom items.
DTF Prints
1. Washing
Washing
Turn inside out: This protects the print from abrasion during the wash.
Use cold water: Hot water can degrade the print over time.
Use a gentle cycle: A delicate or gentle machine cycle helps prevent peeling or cracking.
Choose a mild detergent: Avoid harsh or aggressive chemicals that can damage the ink.
Skip fabric softener and bleach: These can degrade the adhesive and the design itself.
2. Drying
Drying
Air dry is best: Hang-drying is the safest option for preserving the print quality.
Tumble dry on low: If using a dryer, use the lowest heat setting and remove the shirt promptly.
3. Other Tips
Other tips
Avoid dry cleaning: Dry cleaning chemicals can damage the print.
Avoid direct sunlight: Store the shirt away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Embroidery
1. Washing
Washing
Machine wash: Use a cold water, gentle cycle. Turn the garment inside out to protect the stitches.
Hand wash: Gently wash in cold water with a mild detergent. Avoid wringing or twisting the fabric, which can distort stitches and the fabric shape.
What to avoid: Do not use bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the threads. Avoid washing with items with heavy metal parts, like zippers, which can snag the embroidery.
2. Drying
Drying
Air dry: This is the safest method. Lay the garment flat on a clean towel or hang it to dry away from direct sunlight.
Tumble dry: If using a dryer, select a very low-heat or air-fluff setting and remove the item while it is still slightly damp to prevent heat damage.
Do not: Do not wring out the item after washing.
3. Other Tips
Ironing
Inside out: Always iron from the back of the garment with the embroidery facing down against the ironing board.
Use protection: Place a towel or sheet over the embroidered area to protect it from direct heat.
Heat and steam: Use a medium heat setting and do not use steam.
Laser Engraved Items
1. Care and Maintenance
For the engraved product
General cleaning: Use a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap. For tougher spots on metal, use a microfiber cloth with a small amount of isopropyl alcohol to remove smudges.
Wood: Use a clean cloth with white vinegar or a waterless hand cleaner for soot. A gentle sanding method can also work for rough patches.
Avoid: Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or scouring pads, which can scratch the surface. For engraved wood, be aware that alcohol can cause discoloration on raw wood.
Vinyl Decals
1. Application
Clean and prepare the surface: Wipe the application area with a lint-free cloth to remove dirt, dust, or fingerprints. For best results, clean with a mixture of soap and water, then wipe it down with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue and ensure the surface is completely dry.
Peel the backing: Turn the decal over so the clear transfer tape is facing up. Carefully peel the white paper backing away from the decal, ensuring the vinyl remains on the clear transfer tape.
Position the decal: Carefully place the decal onto the surface, holding the transfer tape side up. For large decals, use the "hinge method" by taping the center and peeling half the backing at a time, or a wet application method with a spray bottle of soapy water to allow for adjustments before the vinyl sticks permanently.
Apply pressure: Once in position, use a squeegee, credit card, or your fingers to rub firmly over the transfer tape. This helps the vinyl adhere to the surface. Start from the center and work your way outwards to push out any trapped air bubbles.
Remove the transfer tape: Slowly and carefully peel the clear transfer tape away from the decal at a sharp angle. If any part of the decal starts to lift with the tape, press it back down with the squeegee and try peeling the tape from a different angle.
Final touches: If any small air bubbles remain, you can use a fine pin to prick the center of the bubble and then gently press the vinyl down to push the air out.
2. Cleaning
Cleaning and washing
Use mild soap and water: Mix a small amount of mild soap (like dish soap) with warm water.
Rinse first: Before washing, rinse the decal to remove loose dirt and debris.
Use soft materials: Gently wash the decal with a soft microfiber cloth or a soft sponge. Do not use abrasive pads or brushes.
Rinse thoroughly: Make sure to rinse all soap residue off with clean water.
Dry the surface: Pat the decal dry with a lint-free cloth or let it air dry completely.
3. Protection
Protection
Avoid harsh cleaners: Never use abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals, or glass cleaners like Windex, as they can damage the vinyl.
Minimize sun exposure: Excessive sunlight can cause outdoor decals to fade or peel.
Apply a polish: For outdoor decals, a silicone or Teflon-based polish designed for vehicle graphics can help protect them.
Consider a sealant: A waterproof, UV-resistant sealant spray can add another layer of protection from the elements.
Store indoors: If possible, storing the item with the decal indoors will prolong its life.