,Factors that contribute to the cost of screenprinting apparel:

1. Quantity: One of the most significant factors influencing screenprinting cost is the quantity of items you want to print. The more units you order, the lower the price per item. This is because the setup and preparation costs are spread out over a more significant number of garments. Printing in bulk typically results in lower unit costs.
2. Number of Colours: The number of colours in your design affects the cost. Each colour in your design requires a separate screen and setup, which incurs additional charges. A design with more colours will be more expensive to print.
3. Garment Type: The garment you choose will significantly affect your overall cost. Standard t-shirts are often more affordable than premium or specialty garments. Brand, quality, style, and fabric type also impact pricing.
4. Number of Print Positions: Printing on multiple garment positions, such as the front and back, sleeves, or pockets, will increase the cost. Each print position requires its own setup and printing process.
5. Artwork Complexity: Highly detailed or intricate designs may require more time and effort to screen print, leading to higher costs. Simpler designs are generally less expensive and require less pre-press production.
6. Ink Types: Different ink types can affect pricing. Standard plastisol inks are typically less expensive than specialty inks like Puff, High-density prints, and metallic prints; water-based and discharge inks also incur a higher cost per garment. 
7. Additional Services: Any extra services you request, such as custom labelling, folding, bagging, or individual packaging, will come with additional charges. 
8. Turnaround Time: Rush orders or quicker turnaround times are available at an additional cost. Faster production may require overtime, which increases the price.
9. Artwork & Screen Setup Fees: These fees cover the cost of preparing the screens and equipment for printing. Setup charges typically include a fee for each colour in the design, as each colour requires an individual screen. 

It's essential to discuss your specific printing requirements with us to get an accurate quote.

Yes, see the minimums below for each style of apparel decorating;

• Screen printing & Embroidery – 25 pcs (You can spread your garments over different sizes)
• Printed neck labels – 25 pcs 
• Woven labels – 200 units (Allow up to 2-3 weeks for production of woven labels)
• Vinyl Transfers Heat Transfers - 25 pcs 
• Embroidered Patches - 50 pcs (Allow up to 2-3 weeks for production of embroidered patches)
• Woven Patches - 50pcs (Allow up to 2-3 weeks for production of woven Patches)
• DTG Printing - 25pcs 
• DTF - 25pcs 

Generally, we will respond within a few hours. If it's urgent, please give us a call.

These steps contribute to the initial set-up fees for screenprinting.

1. Preparing Colour Separations: This involves creating individual layers for each colour in the design. Each layer corresponds to a different screen in the printing process. This step ensures that each colour is printed separately and accurately.
2. Coating the Screens: Screens used in screenprinting are coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. This emulsion is exposed to the design, hardening where the design is and washing away where it's not, creating a stencil for each colour.
3. Exposing the Design onto Each Screen: Each screen is exposed to the design using a UV light source. The exposed emulsion hardens, creating the stencil necessary for printing that specific colour.
4. Lining up Colours: It's essential to align each screen accurately when printing multiple colours. This ensures the colours overlay correctly, resulting in a sharp, well-defined print. Registration marks and adjustments are used to achieve this.

The setup fee covers the labour, materials, and time required for these essential steps before printing. It's a standard practice in the screen printing industry to charge an initial setup fee to compensate for these necessary preparations. 

If you reorder the same design within three months from your initial order date, there will be no additional charges for screen setup for printing.

However, please be aware that the standard quoting procedures will still apply, and payment is required before we commence production. Additionally, you will receive an updated proof reflecting any changes, including print and garment colours, made in the reorder

Our minimum for reorders is 25 pcs per design/colourway, which means that if you wish to place a reorder for a particular design or colour variation of a product you've previously ordered, you must meet a minimum order quantity of 25 pcs for that specific design or colourway.

The screens will always be owned by madebyplasma, and we do not provide these screens for customers to keep. The setup charge covers the process of transferring your design onto our screens.

However, we offer separate screen stretching and screen sale services, which you can view here. 

We offer multiple convenient payment options for your orders. You can make payments online through our quoting software, via bank transfer, in-store, or over the phone.

Please note that we require full payment before commencing the production process. You can learn more about our payment process by visiting our 'How it Works' page (Link).

Our bank details are readily available on our quotes and invoices. If you opt for payment via direct deposit, we kindly request that you send us proof of payment to expedite the processing of your order."

1. Garment Ordering: We order the garments you've selected from your chosen supplier.
2. Artwork Preparation: Our design team prepares the artwork for printing or your decoration method. 
3. Digital Proof: A digital proof or mock-up of your job is created and sent to your email for approval. This step allows you to review the design and request any necessary changes. We will not proceed until the proof is approved. Please allow 2-4 days for this proofing process.
4. Screen setup:  This involves creating individual layers for each colour in the design. Each layer corresponds to a different screen in the printing process. This step ensures that each colour is printed separately and accurately.
5. Production Notification: We will email you when your job enters the production phase and is under print. 
6. Completion Notification: Upon completing your job, you will receive another email notification informing you that the work has been finalized and all necessary quality control checks have been performed. 
7. Ready for Pickup or Shipment: Once your job is packed according to your request, we will notify you via email that it's ready for pickup. If you've opted for shipment, we will provide you with a tracking number once it has been dispatched.

We aim to ensure transparency and communication throughout the production process, allowing you to have complete visibility into the progress of your order, make necessary approvals or changes, and receive timely updates on your job status.

Yes,

Our minimum order requirement for each print colourway is 24 units.

We cannot accommodate multiple colourways within a single order of 24 units. Each colourway must meet the minimum quantity requirement.

Each colour change (in 1 position) costs $25 + gst 

Our standard turnaround time is 10 business days from receiving the final artwork and payment. However, this timeframe may extend to 15 business days during peak seasons and high-demand periods.

For those requiring a quicker turnaround, we offer rush order services. When placing your order, please specify your desired deadline. Please note that rush orders are subject to a 25% surcharge."

1. Garment Ordering: We order the garments you've selected from your chosen supplier.
2. Artwork Preparation: Our design team prepares the artwork for printing or your decoration method. 
3. Digital Proof: A digital proof or mock-up of your job is created and sent to your email for approval. This step allows you to review the design and request any necessary changes. We will not proceed until the proof is approved. Please allow 2-4 days for this proofing process.
4. Mix Inks: This process involves mixing different coloured inks together to match the Pantone colour you have requested for your artwork.
5. Screen setup:  This involves creating individual layers for each colour in the design. Each layer corresponds to a different screen in the printing process. This step ensures that each colour is printed separately and accurately.
6. Production Notification: We will email you when your job enters the production phase and is under print. 
7. Completion Notification: Upon completing your job, you will receive another email notification informing you that the work has been finalized and all necessary quality control checks have been performed. 
8. Ready for Pickup or Shipment: Once your job is packed according to your request, we will notify you via email that it's ready for pickup. If you've opted for shipment, we will provide you with a tracking number once it has been dispatched.

We aim to ensure transparency and communication throughout the production process, allowing you to have complete visibility into the progress of your order, make necessary approvals or changes, and receive timely updates on your job status.

If you've encountered any issues or are unsatisfied with the order you received, we want to resolve it promptly. Priority. Here's what you should do next :

1. Contact Us Within 1 Week: Please contact us by email within one week of receiving your order. This ensures we can address your concerns efficiently.
2. Provide Details and Photos:In your email, clearly outline the issue you're facing. We also kindly request that you include photos that illustrate the problem. This helps us better understand and address your specific situation.
3. Possible Return: Depending on the nature of the issue and after assessing the situation, we may request that you return the order. This step is necessary if a refund or reprint is offered as part of the resolution.
4. Important Note: Customized Garments:Please be aware that customized or decorated garments cannot be returned or exchanged under the following circumstances:

• If the garments have been worn or washed.
• In case of a change of mind after the order is placed.
• If you selected the wrong sizing.
• Supplied custom garments that we cannot source 

We will, however, work with you to find the best solution to address any issues you may encounter with your order.

View our full terms and conditions are here (Link)

We don't allow anyone to come in and film or photograph the production process unless prearranged. Please contact us directly to see how this can work for your brand. 

We use a variety of inks, including both plastisol and water-based inks. If you have a particular finish in mind, please inform us when requesting a quote.

If you have physical samples you'd like us to replicate, kindly provide the garment as a reference.

Please refer to this link for more understanding of our printing capabilities at madebyplasma.

We can accurately match any Pantone Coated colour for your project. If you have a specific colour in mind, please provide us with the corresponding Pantone C code.

These codes are available on the Pantone Color Finder website (https://www.pantone.com/color-finder).

It's worth noting that there may be slight variations between on-screen colours and their appearance on the actual garment. Factors like screen settings and lighting can impact colour perception, so we advise considering this when selecting your desired Pantone shade.

If you are still unsure, please give us a call.

Screen printing is still the most versatile for printing designs on apparel. Several screen printing techniques can be used for apparel, each with its characteristics and applications. Here are some of the common types of screen printing for apparel:

• Plastisol Printing: Plastisol ink is the most common ink used in screen printing. It's known for its durability and vibrant colours. Plastisol ink is versatile and works well on a variety of fabrics. 
• Water-Based Printing: Water-based inks are considered more eco-friendly and provide a softer feel to the fabric. They are often used to print lighter-coloured or thinner materials, producing a more subtle "vintage." looking feel and touch.
• Discharge Printing: Discharge printing uses a special ink that removes the dye from the fabric, leaving a soft, faded design. This is popular for achieving a vintage or distressed look on dark-coloured garments.
• Simulated Process Printing: Simulated process printing is used for complex, full-color designs. It combines halftone dots and different ink colours to reproduce photographic or highly detailed artwork.
• Four-Color Process Printing: Four-color process printing is a method for reproducing full-color images. It uses four ink colours (CMYK: cyan, magenta, yellow, and black) to create a wide range of colours by blending dots of these inks.
• All-Over Printing: All-over printing covers the entire garment with a design, often used for custom all-over patterns or designs that extend from edge to edge on the apparel.
• High-Density Printing: High-density ink is raised and has a textured look. It's used to create a 3D or embossed effect on the garment.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Printing: This technique uses ink that glows in the dark after exposure to light. It's famous for creating fun and unique designs on apparel.
• Neon printing. Neon or fluorescent inks are screenprinting inks that produce exceptionally bright, eye-catching, and high-visibility colours. These inks are known for their intensity and ability to stand out. Neon inks come in various fluorescent shades, including neon green, neon pink, neon yellow, neon orange, and other vibrant hues. 
• Metallic and Foil Printing: Metallic and foil inks add a shiny and reflective finish to the design, creating a high-end, eye-catching effect.
• Puff Printing: Puff ink expands and creates a raised, textured effect on the fabric. It's often used for adding dimension to lettering or logos.
• Matte or Suede Ink Printing: Suede ink is known for its soft, velvety texture. It can be used to create a tactile and premium feel on apparel.

Visually learn more about inks and our printing techniques here (LINK)

Standard Plastisol inks sit on top of the fabric, while water-based inks are absorbed more into the fabric, resulting in a softer feel. Water-based inks are considered more environmentally friendly.

Learn more about inks and our printing techniques here (LINK)

Screenprinting can be used on various fabrics, but the choice of ink technique and cost vary depending on the fabric type and colour. 

When placing your order, please specify the print size and print locations. Please consider that the smallest garment size within your order will set the maximum 'printable area' for the entire production.

While we offer the option for the same artwork but with different-sized prints on various garment sizes, this scenario typically involves setting up a new screen and is treated as a separate job. Accordingly, it will be quoted individually, and the minimum order quantity (MOQ) of 24 pieces will apply. Most of our quoted orders are based on a consistent design and size used across multiple garments and sizes.

Please refer to our dedicated page for more detailed information on print areas and maximum print sizes.

You can also download this information here on our resources page. 

In screen printing, a base white (often referred to as an under base) is used for several important reasons:

1. Colour Vibrancy: When printing on coloured or dark garments, the base white acts as a foundation for the ink colours that are layered on top. The colours might appear dull and less vibrant without a white base, as the underlying fabric colour can affect the ink's perceived colour.
2. Opacity: Dark-colored fabrics can show through standard ink colours, making the printed design less visible. A white under base provides opacity, preventing the fabric colour from showing through and ensuring that the printed design appears as intended.
3. Colour Accuracy: Some ink colours, notably lighter ones, may not be visible or look significantly different when printed directly onto dark fabric. The white base ensures the ink colours match the intended design and remain consistent across different garment colours.
4. Design Detail: Complex or detailed designs benefit from a white underbase because it provides a solid foundation for fine lines, gradients, and intricate patterns. 
5. Durability: A white under base can enhance the durability and longevity of the print by creating a solid bond between the fabric and the ink. This is especially important for designs that must withstand repeated washings and wear.
6. Colour Consistency: Using a white underbase helps maintain consistency in colour and appearance across various garment colours. The same ink colour may look different on multiple fabric shades without it.

Screen printing with a white under base typically involves printing a layer of white ink first, followed by the coloured inks on top or a high white. This technique ensures that the colours remain true to the intended Pantone colour, regardless of the garment's colour.

It's important to note that not all screen printing jobs require a white underbase. An under base may not be necessary When printing light-coloured garments, especially white ones. The decision to use a white underbase depends on the specific design, the colours used, and the fabric type.

A "grey base" or "grey underbase" is a specialized technique in screenprinting that involves printing a layer of grey ink (or other neutral colours) as an underbase on a garment before applying the actual ink colours of the design. This technique is primarily used when printing on polyester garments to avoid dye migration.

1. Colour Accuracy: Printing directly on dark or coloured fabrics can alter the appearance of ink colours. The grey underbase acts as a neutral barrier, allowing the subsequent ink colours to maintain their true hue and vibrancy.
2. Opacity: For designs with light or pastel ink colours, a grey underbase helps improve their opacity and ensures they stand out against the dark background.
3. Preventing Color Shift: Some ink colours can interact with the fabric colour, leading to colour shifts. A grey underbase minimizes this interaction and ensures the printed colours match the intended shades.
4. Fine Detail and Small Text: The grey underbase helps maintain the clarity of the design's fine details and small text.
5. Special Ink Effects: It provides a base for specialty inks like metallic inks, fluorescent inks, or other unique effects, allowing them to appear as intended on dark or coloured fabrics.
6. Colour Consistency: Grey is a neutral colour that helps create consistent colour accuracy across various fabric colours. This is crucial for maintaining brand identity and logo colours.

Using a grey underbase depends on the specific design, the fabric colour, and the desired effect. It's a technique in screenprinting for achieving colour accuracy and maintaining the quality of prints on dark or coloured garments. Our team will let you know if a grey base is necessary for your project 

Yes

Our art team can help you develop ideas for your merchandise range to suit your project. The pricing for this service is calculated based on the complexity and hours needed for the project. Please get in touch with us for a quote or email your requirements in as much detail as possible.

Our hourly rate for our graphic design service starts at $80

Yes

After confirming your order and receiving payment, you will receive a digital mockup and a tech pack. Please allow up to 2-4 business days to generate these files.

You will have the opportunity to review and either approve or disapprove the digital mockup before we commence production of your decorated garments. We will not proceed with your order until the mockup has been approved.

Please be mindful that no changes or modifications can be made to the production process once you approve the mockup. Your approval signifies the finalization of the design, and production can commence. 

Using copyrighted images or logos without permission is generally not allowed. Ensure you have the necessary rights or use original artwork.

While we do checks to identify potential printing issues, you must meticulously review your artwork, including spelling and overall content. Please be aware that we cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies in the artwork submitted and approved by you once its been through all our pre press procedures.

The highest quality results for your artwork and printed gear starts with the quality of the files you provide.

Ideally, vector files offer the best results due to their scalability and sharpness. However, if vector files are unavailable, please consider supplying your artwork in one of the following formats: Illustrator (Ai),PSD PDF, EPS, or high-resolution JPEG or PNG files.

For optimal printing quality, you must set your files at 300 DPI (dots per inch) and size to the dimensions desired for each print position, specified in millimetres (mm). 

For example, if you require a back print width of 200mm, please supply your artwork precisely to this width. 

To further enhance the quality of your prints, we recommend creating outlines for all fonts used in the artwork and embedding any images within the files. These steps contribute to a smoother and more accurate printing process."

Link to how we do it to show examples

Can you supply and source Garments? 

Yes, we supply garments for almost all of our orders and customers. We work with plenty of international and local suppliers with whom we have wholesale pricing that we pass on to you. 

Here are some of the suppliers we work with;

• AS Colour
• LA Apparel 
• ShakaWear
• Stanley Stella
• American Apparel 
• Comfort Colours
• Gildan Brands 
• JB's Wear
• Sportage
• Legend Life 

YES

If you wish to supply custom garments, they will need to be approved by our print team before accepting the order. We will need to know the brand, fabric composition and colours. We require extra garments on top of your order to test the print quality before moving to production. We will not accept already worn and washed garments.

Garments delivered to our studio must be clearly labelled with your job details, arranged according to size (Smallest to Largest) and ready for production. When posting your garments to us, please reference your invoice number and full name/company with the artwork printed for reference. 

We do not allow customers to supply garments we already have wholesale accounts with. 

Please review all our terms & conditions for supplying customer-supplied garments here.

You can view all the garment measurements on the product pages on the supplier's website. Downloadable product info assets, in most cases, are also available.

It's up to you to ensure the sizing works for your customers/staff; all brands and t-shirt styles fit differently. We don't take any responsibility if you order incorrect sizes – please check the size charts before proceeding with the order.

We can offer guidance and information, but you must research which garments best suit your screenprinted products.

Finding the right size breakdown is an ongoing process, and it will evolve as your brand and your customer base expand or the company grows with more employees. Understanding your target audience and their sizing preferences will refine this process, making ordering more predictable.

*Size break examples (Recommended based on our sales and customers orders)

Based on madebyplasma's minimum order qty of 24pcs 

• Small – x3
• Medium – x7
• Large – x7 
• X-Large – x5
• 2-XL – x 2

Based on 50pcs garment order 

• Small – x5
• Medium – x15
• Large – x15
• X-Large – x10
• 2-XL – x5

We recommend that you carefully review the care labels on your printed products for washing instructions and share this information with your customers or staff to ensure the longevity of the decorations.

As a general rule for decorated garments, it's advisable to refrain from ironing, steaming, tumble drying, or using hot washing methods, as these practices can potentially affect the integrity of the prints or decorations.

Yes

Our shipping services cover Australia-wide, delivering your orders directly to your designated location or 3PL fulfilment centre. If you're working under a tight deadline, we also provide urgent same-day delivery within 30 kilometres of our workshop in Burleigh Heads. 

When you place your order, please specify your preferred method of shipping or pickup and if you require standard or express shipping. madebyplasma default shipping is standard 

We currently ship with Auspost or Fastway Couriers. If you prefer to use your freight company, please let us know when placing the order. 

For those who prefer pickup, our Burleigh Heads workshop is open for collection from Monday to Friday, and we will notify you when your order is ready for collection.

Auspost Standard Shipping times (Australia-Wide)

Same state: 2-4 business days

Interstate: 3-6 business days

Auspost Express Shipping times (Australia-Wide)

Same state: 1-2 business days

Interstate: 1-3 business days 

Fastway Standard Shipping times (Australia-Wide)

Fastway Express Shipping times (Australia-Wide)

No, delivery charges will be added separately to your order quote. To ensure timely delivery, please inform us if you have a specific deadline.

Shipping rates can vary depending on your region but we like to keep it simple.

Not currently, we do however offer free delivery for large qty orders to customers located within a 30km radius from design lab.

Yes, we ship our products all over the globe.

Please note that free shipping is not applicable for international orders and that shipping rates could vary depending on your region.

Absolutely, You will be notified by email when your order is ready to be collected. Please call or email prior to pickup to arrange a time. Thank you.

If you encounter any difficulties or have questions while tracking your order online, Reach out to us with your concerns, and we can provide further information on your order. If necessary, we will contact the freight company on your behalf.

Screenprinting is known for its durability and wash resistance. The print, in most cases, will outlive the tee.

Washing Instructions:

1. Turn Inside Out: Before washing, turn the garment inside out. This helps protect the printed design from friction and abrasion.
2. Use Cold Water: Wash the garment in cold water. Hot water can cause the ink to break down over time.
3. Gentle Cycle: Select your washing machine's soft or delicate cycle to minimise agitation.
4. Mild Detergent: Use a mild, color-safe detergent. Avoid harsh or bleach-based detergents, as they can fade the print.
5. Hand Wash Option: Consider hand washing for even gentler care if possible.

Drying Instructions:

1. Air Dry: Line drying or air drying the garment is the best option for preserving the print. Avoid direct sunlight, which can cause fading.
2. Low Heat: If you must use a dryer, choose the lowest heat setting. High heat can cause the print to crack or peel over time.

Ironing Instructions:

1. Inside Out: If ironing is necessary, turn the garment inside out before ironing to avoid direct contact with the print.
2. Low Heat: Use a low heat setting on your iron. Do not iron directly over the printed area.

General Care:

1. Avoid Abrasion: Be cautious when wearing or washing the garment with items that have rough textures, as this can cause friction and damage the print.
2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid contact with chemicals, solvents, or stain removers near the print, as they may affect the ink.
3. Avoid High Heat: Do not directly expose the garment to high temperatures or iron on the print.
4. Store Carefully: When storing your screen-printed garments, avoid folding them in a way that causes the print to rub against itself.