Print methods: which one for which product?

On a promotional product, the print method shapes how your logo looks as much as the product itself. The same logo looks completely different laser-engraved on a metal pen, DTF-printed on a T-shirt or debossed on a leather notebook. This page compares the methods briefly; each has its own page with details.

The methods at a glance

• Laser engraving: no ink, the surface itself is marked; permanent, single-tone marks on metal, wood, bamboo and coated surfaces.
• Pad printing: curved and small plastic surfaces (pens, lighters, keyrings); one pass per colour.
• UV printing: full-colour digital print on hard surfaces; for multi-colour logos and gradients.
• DTF printing: full-colour transfer for textiles; works on light and dark fabric, also in small runs.
• Screen printing: vivid and durable for logos with few colours; economical in large runs.
• Sublimation: full colour on white mugs and polyester; the ink becomes part of the surface.
• Embroidery: stitched with thread on caps, polos and fleece; the most "corporate" look.
• Debossing and foil: leather and PU notebooks, planners, boxes; understated and elegant.

What to consider

1. Surface: laser for metal and wood; DTF, screen printing or embroidery for fabric; pad or UV for hard plastic.
2. Number of colours in the logo: single-colour logos work with every method; multi-colour or gradient logos suit UV, DTF and sublimation.
3. Quantity: methods that need a plate or screen (pad, screen printing, debossing) get much cheaper per unit as quantity grows.
4. Use: for products that are washed often or carried every day, durability matters; laser and embroidery last longest.

How it looks on rixor

Every product in the catalogue lists the methods that suit it and the print fee. Once you upload your logo, switch methods on the product page to see the mockup change: a single tone for laser, thread texture for embroidery, an ink-free mark for debossing. Browse the catalogue.