HCT Blog
Learn more about the custom apparel decorating industry as a whole, with a focus in screen printed heat transfer application and techniques. We are sharing our best tips and tricks to help your t-shirt business thrive in today’s competitive market. Do you have a suggestion for a blog topic? Let us know HERE. Would you be interested in contributing to our blog? We’re looking for custom apparel companies to share their success stories! Apply HERE.
When it comes to customizing apparel with tagless labels, two popular options stand out: Direct-to-Film (DTF) transfers and screen print transfers. Both offer vibrant designs, but beneath the surface lie distinct advantages depending on your project's needs. Let's delve into the intricacies of DTF vs. screen print transfers for tagless labeling.
Direct to Film (DTF) transfers have become a popular choice, but a key question arises: should you invest in DTF equipment and print transfers yourself, or rely on a transfer supplier? We have all the answers.
As the weather begins to turn, summer ushers in a vibrant wave of events, festivities, and outdoor activities. For custom apparel decorators, this season is a golden opportunity to capitalize on the surge in demand for customized clothing.
Trade shows offer invaluable opportunities for professionals in the decorated apparel industry to network, discover trends, and expand their businesses. Knowing how to maximize your time and efforts can make a significant difference in the outcomes you achieve. In this blog, we'll explore key strategies for making the most out of attending a trade show in the decorated apparel sector.
Whether you're a small business owner, a creative entrepreneur, or a passionate hobbyist, offering unique and personalized apparel can set you apart from the competition. Let's explore how leveraging heat transfers can take your custom apparel business to the next level.
Whether you're a seasoned decorator or just starting out, mastering the art of heat transfer application requires attention to detail, precision, and a keen understanding of best practices. Here are some of the top mistakes to avoid when applying custom heat transfers.
When we talk about utilizing custom heat transfers in the decorated apparel segment, we often focus on ease and efficiency. While these are top reasons to incorporate heat transfers into your business model, there’s another added benefit not often discussed: unique customizations.
The choice between custom heat transfers and direct screen printing can be a pivotal one. Let's delve into the key considerations for choosing custom heat transfers over direct screen printing and why timing plays a crucial role in this decision-making process.
While the temptation to prioritize cost savings when choosing suppliers is understandable, it's crucial to recognize the long-term implications of this approach. Let's delve into why the "get what you pay for" mentality holds true in the world of custom transfers and why the race to the bottom can prove detrimental in the B2B market.
As one of the premier trade shows dedicated to the industry, Impressions Expo Long Beach kicks off each year by bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, decorators, and professionals from various related sectors, creating a dynamic environment for networking and collaboration.
Let's explore the latest trends that are shaping the industry. From innovative techniques to shifts in design philosophy, here's what's in and what's out for apparel decorators in 2024.
Dive into the dynamic landscape of the custom apparel industry to uncover the transformative trends that are set to redefine the way we personalize garments in 2024.
Whether it's for the press, influencers, event guests, new employees, or marketing your own business, promo boxes can be a great way to leave a lasting impression.
Heat transfers have a relatively modern history compared to other printing methods like screen printing or letterpress, but did you know that the first adoption of heat printing dates all the way back to the late 18th century?
With Halloween just around the corner, now is the perfect time to stock up your shop with some spooky apparel, and we’ve got the perfect products for you to be on top of your spooky season game.
Football season is in full swing, which can only mean one thing: tailgate season! Here’s some of our favorite products to custom outfit your hometown fans.
Check out our picks for top Halloween design trends and everything we think your customers will be dying to buy from you!
School is back in session and we’re guessing your spirit wear stores are starting to sell out. Good problems! From uniforms and custom team wear to school supplies, transfers are a great way to keep your inventory low with the option to re-stock quickly and easily.
While demand can vary based on specific markets, industry trends, and target audience, the third quarter can be considered the busiest time of year for many apparel decorators. There are several factors that contribute to this peak in performance, including back-to-school, fall sports seasons, and corporate events.
Learn why pre-pressing could be your key to success or what cover sheets to use to re-press your garments for finished products your customers will love!
As apparel decorators, we know that selling on Etsy can be challenging, but here are some tips for creating Etsy-worthy products using custom heat transfers to drive sales.
What is the Pantone Matching System and why is it such an important tool for apparel decorators?
The second quarter can be a busy time for decorators with several key events and holidays that may drive demand for custom apparel. Find out what we recommend to keep your shop busy the next three months.
As an apparel decorator, it's important to stay up to date with the latest trends in custom heat transfers in order to provide your clients with the most relevant and in-demand designs.
Learn why gang sheets are an ideal option for garment decorators who want to maximize efficiency and minimize cost.
Did you know that there’s over 1,800 solid coated Pantone® colors? Or that CMYK process can produce over 16,000 color combinations? With such a vast range of options, choosing the right colors for your project can be intimidating!
We asked our team to share their best application tips and tricks. Check out these answers from Howard’s finest and the industry’s best.
Here’s our top four heat transfer product picks for stocking your spirit wear store this school year.
Utilize your heat press for customizing more than just t-shirts. Here’s eight items you can decorate that aren’t a basic tee.