Bookbinding, Theses and Sheets

Customizing t-shirts is a creative and effective way to promote a brand, create merchandise, uniforms, or unique pieces for events. At Grafipronto , we use different techniques to ensure the best result depending on the design, fabric and desired quantity. In this guide, we explain the three main techniques we use: DTF , digital transfer printing with Xerox printing , and flex vinyl , comparing advantages, disadvantages, and ideal applications. 🎯 1. DTF (Direct to Film) Printing How it works: The design is printed onto a special film with pigmented inks, covered with polyurethane powder, and then transferred to the fabric using heat and pressure. ✅ Advantages: High definition of colors and very fine details, ideal for intricate logos, photographic images with shadows and white printing. Works on almost all fabric types (cotton, polyester, blends and dark fabrics). Good durability even after many washes. Allows for small runs or unique pieces with excellent quality. ⚠️ Disadvantages: Multi-step process, slower production than printing or simple vinyl. Light relief on the fabric, noticeable to the touch, in very saturated designs. 💡 Ideal for: Merchandising, custom uniforms, complex designs with many details and colorful clothing items. 🎯 2. Digital Printing with Transfer How it works: The design is printed on special transfer paper on a Xerox digital laser printer , using high definition toner. Then, the transfer is applied to the shirt using a heat press , fixing the image to the fabric. ✅ Advantages: Very fast production , ideal for short deadlines and small runs. Vivid, sharp colors , great for simple images and logos. Possibility of printing photos or gradients. Good option for light fabrics, especially white T-shirts . ⚠️ Disadvantages: On black or very dark t-shirts, the result may vary: sometimes it maintains good quality, but in others it loses contrast or saturation. Less breathable over large areas due to the transfer film. Lower durability than DTF in very common washes. 💡 Ideal for: White t-shirts for events, giveaways, small print runs and quick customization on the spot. 🎯 3. Vinyl Printing (Cut or Print Vinyl) How it works: Vinyl is cut (for solid colors) or printed (for complex images) and then applied to the fabric with heat and pressure. ✅ Advantages: Very high durability , especially on logos and cut-out images. Possibility of special effects with metallic vinyl, glitter, fluorescent, etc. Good wash resistance. ⚠️ Disadvantages: Less suitable for complex images with lots of detail. Thicker, more “plastic” feel. More time consuming on designs with many small elements. 💡 Ideal for: Names, numbers, simple logos and parts with special effects. 🏆 Quick comparison Technique Production Speed Durability Touch Ideal For DTF Average High Smooth Complex designs and varied fabrics Digital Printing (Xerox + Transfer) High Average Average Quick customization and vivid colors Vinyl Reduced High Thick Simple logos and special effects 👕 Grafipronto T-shirts At Grafipronto, we have a variety of t-shirt colors for customization, although black and white models are the most common in stock for immediate production in local stores. Physical stores : models for men and women available at Grafipronto in Shopping Cidade do Porto and Grafipronto in El Corte Inglés Gaia . Online : unisex models. Featured T-shirts : 190 gsm, 100% cotton jersey knit (shaded grey: 90% cotton / 10% viscose) Carded cotton yarn 1x1 ribbed collar Jersey reinforcement tape Double stitching on sleeves and bottom Tubular Regular cut Enzymatic treatment 🌱 Which is more environmentally friendly? DTF: Water-based inks, reduced waste, but film and dust are plastic. Digital Printing (Xerox + Transfer): Consumes little material and energy, but the transfer is plastic that must later be recycled. Vinyl: Less sustainable but much more durable as it uses PVC. 📌 Conclusion Each technique has its space. If you're looking for speed , digital transfer printing is unbeatable. If you need unique detail and versatility , DTF is the right choice. And if your focus is visual impact and durability , vinyl is unbeatable. 📞Contact us or visit our stores and find out which technique and T-shirt model is best suited for your project.

UV printing is revolutionizing the world of visual communication. With cutting-edge technology, high durability, and versatile materials, this technique produces impressive results—both in large format and on rigid surfaces. At Grafipronto , we rely on UV printing to ensure professional, durable, and personalized finishes without sacrificing sustainability. In this article, we explain what UV printing is, its advantages, and why it should be your choice for demanding projects. 🔍 What is UV printing? UV printing is a process in which ink is cured (i.e., dried) instantly by ultraviolet light immediately after being applied to the material. This immediate curing forms a solid, highly resistant, and adherent layer of ink that adheres to the printed surface—whether flexible or rigid. 📐 Large format UV printing UV technology is ideal for large-scale projects such as: Advertising canvases Self-adhesive vinyl Promotional posters Event exhibitors Decorative canvases and posters The colors remain vibrant even when exposed to sunlight, humidity, or frequent handling. It's the ideal solution for outdoor communication, stands, and points of sale. 🧱 UV printing on rigid materials One of the great advantages of UV printing is the possibility of printing directly onto rigid materials , such as: Acrylic PVC (Forex) KAPA® or foamboard Wood Glass Aluminum These stands offer endless possibilities for signage, interior decor, informational plaques, personalized gifts, and more—all with a high-definition finish. 🌱 Environmental advantages of UV printing UV printing is not only technically superior — it's also a more environmentally friendly option : No harmful solvents : UV ink does not release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), reducing pollution and protecting health. Less waste : instant drying prevents smudges and mistakes. Greater durability = fewer reprints . Compatible with ecological and recyclable materials . Equipment with UV LED technology consumes less energy. 🎨 Unlimited customization potential UV printing opens doors to creative, detailed and long-lasting personalization: Direct printing onto dozens of surfaces — rigid, flexible, light, dark or transparent. White backing paint allows you to highlight designs on clear acrylics or dark materials. Relief effects or tactile textures through overlapping layers. Ideal for small series or individual customization , with excellent cost-benefit. Whether for giveaways, promotional items, custom signage, or corporate decor, UV personalization is versatile and visually striking. 🔒 No laminating required — and it lasts longer One of the great advantages of UV printing is that it completely eliminates the need for lamination . The ink itself forms a layer that is resistant to wear, water, and UV rays. This means: Reduction of costs and production time Lower environmental impact (no plastic films) More natural final appearance , without shine or artificial thickness Fewer steps in the process = faster, more efficient production ✅ Why choose Grafipronto? At Grafipronto , we use state-of-the-art UV printing equipment , with a specialized technical team that follows your project from start to finish. We offer: Direct printing on rigid and large format Fast and professional production Customization with premium finishes Technical support in preparing files In-store deliveries or nationwide shipping 👇 Ready to give your project more impact? If you're looking for a durable, personalized, eco-friendly, and professional-quality printing solution, UV printing is the right choice. Contact us and request a quote now — we have a team ready to help you every step of the way.

Grafipronto is not just a copy shop – we are a digital printing and finishing center with cutting-edge technology, ensuring speed, precision, and personalized service. 📌 Online and Local Service – With 4 stores in Porto , we are available 363 days a year , from 9am to 11pm , so you'll never be without a place to print, copy or customize your graphic materials.