GOOD TO KNOW
Not a textile expert? No problem. This section breaks down the stuff that usually gets lost in production emails (like what’s the difference between DTG and DTF, or what GSM actually means for your t-shirt).
Tap a card to learn the basics, plus a few tips for keeping your merch looking fresh even after multiple washes. You don’t need to be technical, we’ll handle that. But it’s always good to know what’s going on behind the seams.
Screen Print
❓ Ink is pushed through a mesh screen to create bold, long-lasting prints.
Good to Know:
Best for large batches and solid-color graphics.
Higher mesh = more detail.
Care Tips:
• Wash inside out, cold water.
• Air dry if possible.
• Never iron on the print.
DTG Print
(Direct-to-Garment)
❓ Digital inkjet printer sprays your design directly onto the fabric.
Good to Know:
Great for small runs and photo-like detail.
Best on 100% cotton.
Care Tips:
Gentle wash, cold only.
Skip softeners and bleach.
Tumble low or hang dry.
Sublimation
❓ Sublimation uses heat to transfer ink into the fabric, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting prints that won't crack or peel.
Good to Know:
Best for polyester garments and all-over, full-color designs
Works only on light-colored fabrics
Care Tips:
Wash inside out, cold water
Tumble dry low or air dry
Avoid bleach or fabric softener
DTF Print
(Direct-to-Film)
❓ Designs are printed on film, then heat-pressed onto fabric.
Good to Know:
Vibrant on light & dark garments.
More stretch-resistant than DTG.
Care Tips:
Turn inside out.
Wash max 30°C.
Avoid ironing print area.
Embroidery
❓ Your logo or design is stitched with colored threads into the fabric.
Good to Know:
Durable and premium.
Best on thicker garments (like hoodies or polos).
Care Tips:
Delicate cycle, cold water.
Lay flat to dry.
Never bleach or tumble high.
What Is Pre-Shrunk?
❓ Garments that have been pre-washed to reduce post-purchase shrinkage.
Good to Know:
100% cotton shrinks 2-3% unless pre-shrunk.
Tip:
Check product tags and sizing before washing.
Caring for Your Merch
❓ Essentials:
• Wash inside out
• Cold water only
• Skip bleach & softeners
• No hot dryer!
• Don’t iron prints
• Flat or hang dry
Why it matters:
Proper care = vibrant color & long life.
Cotton vs. Blends
❓ Fabric blends affect feel, print quality & durability.
Popular Options:
100% Cotton = soft, best for printing.
Cotton/Poly = less shrink, more stretch.
Triblend = ultra-soft, vintage vibe.
Tip:
DTG loves combed cotton. DTF handles blends better.
Mockups vs.
Tech Pack
❓ Mockup:
Visual preview of design on a shirt.
Tech Pack:
Full document with fabric, sizing, colors, stitching, etc.
Tip:
For merch drops → mockup is enough.
For custom cut & sew → tech pack is essential.
Heat Press vs.
Screen Print
❓ Heat Press:
Quick, good for low quantities.
Screen Print:
Best for bulk, bold colors, long-lasting.
Quick Tip:
Metallic or reflective graphics = heat press.
Large art = screen print.
Ribbing / Rib Knit
❓ Stretchy fabric used on necks, cuffs, and hems.
Why It Matters:
Adds comfort, durability, and shape retention.
Henotique Fact:
We offer 1x1, 2x2 and wide ribs depending on style.
Sustainable Packaging
❓ What We Offer:
• Recycled polybags
• Custom kraft sleeves
• Plant-based print inks
Why It Matters:
More and more fans care how their merch is made — not just what’s on it.
Brand Tip:
Sustainability sells.
Deadstock vs.
Fresh Fabric
❓ Deadstock = leftover rolls from previous production.
Fresh = made-to-order, dyed on demand.
Henotique Tip:
Deadstock = sustainable & fast.
Fresh = custom Pantone & full control.
Cut & Sew vs.
Ready-Made Blanks
❓ Cut & Sew = custom pattern, fabric, and construction.
Blanks = ready garments you print/embroider.
Pros of Cut & Sew:
• 100% unique fit
• Control over every detail
Cons:
• More time & cost
• Best for 100+ pcs
Relabeling &
Private Label
❓ Custom neck tags or hem labels to make your merch feel like a real brand.
Options:
• Screen-printed neck labels
• Woven tags sewn in
• Hang tags for packaging
Why It Matters:
Brand trust. Perceived value. Repeat buyers.
Puff Print &
Specialty Inks
❓ Puff ink expands under heat, creating a raised 3D effect.
Good to Know:
Great for bold text or logos.
Works best on heavyweight cotton.
Care Tips:
Wash cold, never iron print.
MOQ
(Minimum Order Quantity)
❓ The smallest number of items you can order in one production batch.
Good to Know:
MOQ depends on method & factory.
Screen printing? Higher MOQ.
DTG/DTF? Lower MOQ.
Henotique Tip:
We start at 50 pcs — ideal for creators testing drops.
Fabric Weights (GSM)
❓ GSM = grams per square meter, a measure of fabric thickness.
Quick Guide:
120–160 GSM = Light (summer tees)
180–220 GSM = Mid (streetwear staples)
230+ GSM = Heavy (oversized, structured fits)
Tip:
Heavier ≠ better — choose based on comfort & purpose.