Weiskamp Screen Printing

Some frequently asked questions...

There are many questions that arise when trying to get screenprinting done. Some questions are more common than the others. We've compiled some most commonly asked questions that our clients ask when placing their orders. We hope that through this it will eliminate some confusion or questions that you may have. If you don't find your answers here, please don't hesitate to call.

Q: How much shrinkage can I expect?

A: All of the garments that we use are high quality name brands manufactured to keep shrinkage to a minimum. However, you should plan on some shrinkage during the first few times through the laundry. Typically garments will shrink approximately 5% across the shoulders and 7% in the length. For a large or extra large garment this is about 1-1.25 inches in width and 1.5-2 inches in the overall length.

Q: How closely can you match your ink to the color that I want?

A: We can happily provide you with a color card that shows our 30 standard ink colors. In most cases you will probably find a color that is close to what you have in mind. In the event that our standard colors do not come close enough we can do a simulation of over 1000 PMS (Pantone Matching System) colors. If you are not familiar with the PMS system please call for a more detailed explanation of how you can specify a color match.

Q: We're in a hurry! What is your turnaround time?

A: For most jobs production time is 3-5 working days. But this is after all art and/or samples have been completed and approved and a deposit paid. The usual bottleneck is art production and approval. A typical time-line might be: Day l- Art is shipped to us overnight. Day 2-4 Art is inspected and neccessary changes are made. Day 5- Art is returned to you. Day 6- We receive approval and a deposit. Day 7-11 Order is run and shipped.

Remember that these are business days and also that if the art is not approved and needs further work or if we need to produce a sample extra time must be allowed. If you need to receive your job on a certain date please let us know at the outset. Plan ahead!

Q: How will my order be shipped?

A: Standard UPS ground service is included in all prices and the approximate delivery time is shown on this map. Ground service is not guaranteed so it is advisable to have a day or two of cushion in your scheduale should there be an unexpected delay. 1 Day, 2 Day, and 3 Day service is also available at additional cost. Click here for the UPS Ground and Standard Services.

Q: What is the difference between 50/50 and 100% cotton fabrics?

A: Generally 50/50 fabrics are lighter in weight. They also tend to wrinkle less and to be somewhat more dye-fast. The polyester is also a stronger yarn and produces a more durable fabric. The 100% cotton fabrics are normally used in the heavier weights and are softer. The general preference is for 100% cotton especially for those under 50 years of age. Both fabrics will undergo some shrinkage when washed.

Q: Can I get reprints of an old design?

A: Reprints are no problem. We will retain your art on file for 3 years. If your design is to be reprinted with no art changes then normal production is 3-5 days after we receive your order and deposit. If changes are to be made in the art, extra time should be allowed. Reorders are priced the same unit cost plus setup as the original order. This means that if your original order was for 100 pieces at $4.99 plus 2 setup charges at $25 each the total cost was $549 or $5.49 each. A 10 piece reorder however, would be $4.99 x 10 plus 2 setups at $25 each or a total of $99.9 or $9.99 per shirt.

Q: How long will the design stay on the shirt?

A: The printing will last the useful life of the shirt. What we mean by that is the design will show wear and fading at about the same rate as the garment. Normally this means a life span of several years.

Q: We have had trouble getting a good bright white logo on our shirts in the past. Is there something that can be done?

A: You were probably using a 50/50 garment. Polyester dyes can discolor printing inks over time. This is especially true with unstable dye colors such as red. We would recommend that you use 100% cotton fabrics, particularly when using reds and purples.

Q: Can you do 4 color (CMYK) process printing?

A: Technically we can but it is not one of our standard T-shirt Buzz services. If you are considering a 4 color process design please contact us to discuss your needs. ln any case there are 2 things that you can be sure of; 4 color process costs more and takes longer.

Q: We are concerned about the accuracy of the color samples on our monitor. Is there any way that we can get actual fabric swathches?

A: Yes. Contact us to get swatches of the garments that you are interested in.

Q: Why do you only offer Hanes and Fruit of the Loom for most of your products?

A: Mainly because of name recognition and availability. Almost everyone has some Hanes or FOL products in their dressers and are familiar with the quality of these name brands. And since these are popular brands they are widely available from our suppliers which helps us to provide the products you need in a timely fashion.

Q: Can you get different brands than the ones shown?

A: Let us know what you are looking for and we'll try our best. Other companies such as Jerzees (Russell), Lee, Oneita, and Anvil produce a variety of T-shirts and fleecewear. There are also many brands and styles of sportshirts available.

Q: What are the real differences between Hanes and Fruit of the Loom?

A: For the most part it is simply personal preference. After several trips through the laundry most people wouldn't be able to tell the difference between them.

Q: Do you have any recommendations to help us decide which garments to choose?

A: Yes I can give you my personal recommendations which are of course subjective opinions. When I am choosing a T-shirt I would pick a Hanes Beefy-T and I think that most of our customers would agree. For sweats try the 9oz Fruit of the Loom. It feels thicker than the Hanes even though it is the same weight and the pricing is certainly always a great deal. For sportshirts I have for the last few years directed customers to the Anvil Cotton Deluxe which is a great heavyweight shirt even though it is one of the least expensive shirts. Fruit of the Loom has a very economical shirt with a generous sizing and a drop tail so it does seem like a good value but I haven't worn one myself so I don't have any practical experience with it. I have a Hanes 100% cotton sportshirt that I like to wear but the buttons fell off of it right away when I first wore it. Probably just my bad luck. The Outer Banks jersey knit sportshirt isn't particularly cheap but it sure feels nice!

Q: What is camera-ready art?

A: It is the kind of art that we need to make our printing plates (screens). Good quality black and white art that is to be reproduced exactly as it appears. Many customers cannot provide camera-ready, color separated art. We have artists on staff to help you with art production if needed.

Q: What does color separation mean?

A: If you don't know then you probably should consult with a graphic artist or send the best art that you have into our artists. Below is a brief illustration of what we are looking for.

Q: You list quite a few available colors for most of your products. Can I count on all of these colors actually being available?

A: Unfortunately not all of the colors are available all of the time. Colors sometimes get discontinued or are temporarily out of stock. Normally you can count on the basic colors being available ( red, royal, black, navy, ash, white, natural ). Right now athletic heather is very difficult to find in most shirt styles. It is a good idea to have an alternate color in mind in case your first choice is unavailable.

Q: Are children's sizes available?

A: T-shirts and sweats are available in youth sizes but usually in a more limited color palette. Keep in mind that youth size shirts may require that your art be reduced to fit and that this will incur additional setup costs.