For the Business of Apparel Decorating
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/670957
2 0 1 6 M A Y P R I N T W E A R || 39 films headline the list. As a novice to the process, multicolor graph- ics with heat transfer films can be difficult to understand at first, and even as an expert, multicolor with mixed media can be challenging. Much of the error in the process occurs most often at art setup or application. Since each roll of film needs to be processed separately, colors also need to be separated in the software prior to output. In the instance of the design pictured on page 40, the pink material needs to be cut and weeded separately from the gold. When starting with layering materials, it's important to note that each film has its specific requirements for time, temperature, and pressure. As a general rule, ensure that the film with the hottest and longest application receives a full setting at some point in the process. Hot-peel materials are particularly bene- ficial in multicolor applications. A smooth release will help prevent the garment from stretching and warping, which makes it difficult to align foreground layers. While most materials can be combined and layered with one another, you may still encounter materials that aren't recom- mended for layering. However, there are different steps that can be taken in the de- sign phase to get the look. For instance, the trapping technique is the process of knocking out the underlying areas of the background design so that the foreground layer makes contact with the fabric. An- other option is designing with a gap out- line around the image to allow for gar- ment show through. When preparing to layer, it's recom- mended to find a product that can be tacked to the garment for just a few sec- onds and have the carrier released. This will allow the placement of all background colors in short order, speeding up the pro- cess and reducing the risk that the heat transfer material will shrink underneath the heat, which in turn helps with align- ment of the next color. A clear carrier on the film will help with alignment as well. The few-second fast tack can be used to eliminate transfer of glitter particles to a background film color, as well as avoid leaving a mark from the plas- tic carrier's hard edge where it overlaps another part of the design. Often, the carrier can even leave an impression in materials such as some nylon and leather, so the quick application of the background will help this as well. This has specifically been helpful when apply- ing pad folios, shoes, and some jackets. WEEDING MADE EASY Weeding can be another opportunity for efficiency and gain. Weeding time is cost; specifically, opportunity costs when small business owners proficient in other areas are spending time in the process. Any steps that can be taken to reduce weeding time will increase throughput and free up time for additional tasks to be completed.