How does over-the-zipper printing work?

Here's a breakdown of how over-the-zipper printing works:

1. Preparation

The garment is prepared for printing by ensuring it's flat and properly aligned. Any zippers or seams that may interfere with the printing process are carefully taped or covered to create a smooth surface for printing.

2. Design Setup

The design to be printed is prepared digitally and adjusted to fit the dimensions of the garment, including the area across the zipper. The setup may involve segmenting the design into multiple parts to ensure it aligns seamlessly when printed over the zipper.

3. Screen Printing

Screen printing is the most common method used for over-the-zipper printing due to its versatility and ability to produce high-quality, durable prints. The design is transferred onto a fine mesh screen, with areas corresponding to the design blocked off to create a stencil.

4. Printing Process

The prepared garment is laid flat on the printing surface, and the screen with the stencil is carefully positioned over the designated area, including the zipper. Ink is then applied to the screen and spread across the stencil using a squeegee, forcing the ink through the mesh and onto the garment.

5. Curing

Once the design is printed, the garment is heated to cure the ink and ensure it bonds properly with the fabric. This step is crucial for achieving long-lasting prints that resist fading, cracking, or peeling.

6. Finishing Touches

After curing, the garment may be embellished or finished with additional embellishments or finishing touches, such as tags, labels, or additional screen prints in other areas.

8. Quality Control

Finally, the printed garment undergoes rigorous quality control inspections to ensure that the design is accurately printed, the colors are vibrant and consistent, and the garment meets the brand's standards for quality and craftsmanship.