FAQ
Everything you need to know before placing an order
COMMON QUESTIONS WE GET
HOW DOES PRICING WORK?
Pricing depends on a few key factors: the printing method, the type of garment, the quantity, the complexity of your design and whether or not you have a print-ready (which you don't necessarily need).
In general, larger quantities bring the cost per piece down, while smaller runs cost a bit more because setup time and production steps stay the same regardless of order size.
- For screen printing, pricing is typically based on the number of colors and print locations.
- For embroidery, it’s based on stitch count and design size. We take care of digitizing at no additional cost.
- For DTF printing, pricing is usually more straightforward since it’s best suited for full-color, detail-heavy designs and smaller runs.
We always provide a detailed quote upfront so you know exactly what to expect before anything goes into production—no surprises.
If you’re not sure what your project will cost, just send it over and we’ll break it down for you.
Check out this screen printing quick quote tool to get an idea for pricing on your project.
WHAT IS THE MINIMUM ORDER?
Screen Printing: 12 pieces
Embroidery: No minimums
Direct-to-Film (DTF): No minimums
IS IT POSSIBLE TO MAKE A SAMPLE BEFORE FULL PRODUCTION?
We provide a digital mock-up with every quote so you can review and approve your design before anything goes into production. This is the standard first step and covers layout, placement, and overall look.
If you need changes, we include reasonable revisions during the approval stage to make sure everything is dialed in before production begins.
For most orders, this approval process removes the need for physical sampling and keeps turnaround times fast and costs efficient.
In some cases, a physical pre-production sample can be made upon request, especially for larger or more complex orders. These are typically produced after a non-refundable deposit is placed, since they involve setup time, materials, and machine prep.
Our goal is to make sure you feel confident in your order before full production—while keeping the process fast, clear, and efficient.
WHAT'S THE TURNAROUND TIME?
Usual turnaround time is 5 - 7 business days.
Rush Orders: 2 - 3 days.
Same-day/24 hour turnaround is available, depending on artwork readiness and garment availability.
DO YOU OFFER LOCAL DELIVERY?
Yes—we offer free local delivery and shipping options depending on your order size and location.
Free delivery is available for local customers in Ontario, CA and surrounding Inland Empire cities such as Rancho Cucamonga, Fontana, Upland, Pomona, Chino, Chino Hills, Riverside, and Corona.
For larger orders, we can also provide delivery at no additional charge to parts of the Greater Los Angeles area and Orange County, including cities like Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale, Long Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Irvine, and surrounding areas.
If you’re unsure what option applies to your order, just reach out and we’ll walk you through it.
WHAT TYPE OF FILES DO YOU NEED?
We recommend uploading your files as a single compressed folder (.zip, .rar, or .7z) to keep everything organized and avoid multiple uploads. Please name your file according to the “Project Title” listed in the submission form.
Large files may take a bit longer to upload—thanks for your patience while they process.
Accepted file types:
.jpg, .jpeg, .png, .pdf, .psd, .tif, .tiff, .bmp, .zip, .rar, .7z
Artwork Checklist
To ensure the best print quality, please follow these guidelines before submitting your artwork:
- Artwork should be submitted in 100% black and white.
- Make sure your design is set to the exact size you want printed.
- Files (.psd, .pdf, .tif, etc.) should be at a minimum of 300 DPI resolution.
- All text must be outlined or rasterized before submission.
- For multi-color designs, each color should be placed on its own layer.
HOW MANY TIMES CAN I REVISE MY MOCK-UP BEFORE APPROVAL?
We include a free mock-up with every quote so you can see how your design will look before moving forward.
After you receive your quote and approve the direction, we take a deposit to lock in your order and begin production prep. From there, we’re happy to make reasonable revisions to the mock-up until you’re satisfied and ready to approve it for production.
Our goal is to make sure everything looks right before anything goes into print or stitch, so we work with you through that approval stage to get it dialed in.
Once the final mock-up is approved, the design is locked in and we move into production.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SCREEN PRINTING AND DTF?
Screen printing and DTF printing are great methods, but they each have different strengths depending on your design and what you’re making.
Screen printing is best for larger orders and bold, simple designs. It lays ink directly onto the garment, creating a smooth, durable print that’s very cost-effective when ordering in bulk.
DTF (Direct-to-Film) is the most flexible option. It allows full-color, highly detailed designs—including photos and gradients—and works well for smaller runs or complex artwork on almost any fabric.
Embroidery is different because it uses thread instead of ink. Your design is stitched into the garment, giving it a raised, premium look that’s extremely durable and great for hats, uniforms, and professional branding.
In short:
- Screen printing = best for bulk + bold designs
- DTF = best for full color + detail + small runs
- Embroidery = best for premium, stitched branding
CAN I MIX DIFFERENT GARMENT TYPES IN ONE ORDER?
Yes, you can usually mix garment types in the same order, but it depends on the printing method and design.
If you’re using screen printing, we can print the same design across different garments, but pricing is subject to change based on setup and may vary slightly depending on garment type, color of garment, and placement. In most cases, it’s no problem as long as the design stays consistent.
For DTF printing, mixing garment types is very easy. Since the design is printed as a transfer, it can be applied to a wide range of fabrics and items within the same order with minimal limitations.
For embroidery, mixing garments is also possible, but stitch count, size, and placement may vary slightly depending on the item (for example, hats vs. hoodies vs. polos).
In short: yes, you can mix items—we just review the order to make sure everything is set up correctly and priced accurately before production begins.
CAN I SUPPLY MY OWN BLANK SHIRTS/GARMENTS?
We typically don’t print on customer-supplied garments.
The reason is that our pricing includes both the garment and the printing, and it allows us to control quality from start to finish and make sure everything comes out exactly how it should. We also require all garments to be brand new so we can guarantee proper ink or thread application and long-lasting results.
We use our own carefully selected garments to ensure consistent quality, proper print results, and long-lasting durability from start to finish.
That said, we’re always open to special projects, including custom pieces for sports teams or brands using cut-and-sew garments. If you have a unique setup like that, just reach out and we’ll review it with you to make sure it’s a good fit for production.
If you’re not sure what garments to use, we’re always happy to recommend options that work best for your design, budget, and intended use.
CAN I STOP BY RIGHT NOW TO DISCUSS AN ORDER?
We’re happy to welcome walk-ins, but we primarily operate by appointment.
Since this is a working production studio and not a traditional storefront, most of our time is focused on printing and fulfillment. Booking ahead ensures we can give you proper time to talk through your project.
Just give us a call or text before stopping by and we’ll make sure you’re taken care of.
STILL UNSURE?
Call, text or email us. We’ll walk you through it and make it easy.
Call or Text: 909-230-0808
Email: info@theproperprint.com
Or send us a message using the form below.