Behind the Scenes

From Design to Reality

The Whee! Studios Merch Production Process

Ever dreamt of having custom apparel that truly represents your brand, your team, or your event? Tired of those DIY iron-on projects that crack and peel after a few washes? At Whee! Studios, I take your vision from a concept to a high-quality, finished product you'll be proud to wear.

With over 30 years immersed in the design world, I've learned a thing or two about bringing ideas to life. And let me tell you, it's not just about the design itself; the production process is just as crucial. That's why I use professional-grade equipment and honed my techniques to deliver items that look amazing and lasts.

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The Whee! Studios Production Advantage

I believe in doing things right, and that starts with the tools and techniques you use.

Heat Press Transfers: My Preferred Method

At Whee! Studios, my preferred method for apparel decoration is using heat press transfers. This process allows for incredible versatility and high-quality results. I use a Hotronix Fusion heat press. This isn't your everyday home iron or craft press! This professional-grade machine provides even heat distribution, precise temperature control, and consistent pressure. This ensures that every transfer is applied correctly, resulting in a vibrant and long-lasting design.

A home iron simply can't compete. It's difficult to maintain an even temperature, and the pressure is inconsistent, which often leads to cracking, peeling, and fading. My Hotronix Fusion eliminates those problems, giving you a finished product that can withstand the test of time (and the washing machine!).

High-Quality Transfers

The quality of the transfer is just as important as the application. That's why I source my transfers from trusted suppliers who provide top-notch materials.

DTF (Direct to Film) Transfers

For full-color prints, I primarily use DTF transfers. This technology is incredible! It allows for vibrant colors, sharp details, and a soft feel. DTF is also incredibly versatile and can be used on a wide variety of fabrics. I get my DTF transfers from a couple different sources known for their excellent quality. These sources offer a selection of specialty transfers, including metallic, glitter, and more, to help make your merch truly unique.

Plastisol Transfers

Sometimes, for single-color designs or specific projects, I use plastisol transfers. These transfers are screen-printed and offer exceptional durability and vibrant color. For simpler designs, these transfers can provide a big cost savings for the budget-conscious client.

Expanding Beyond Apparel: Hard Goods & Dye Sublimation

In addition to apparel, Whee! Studios can also bring your designs to life on a variety of hard goods. Through trusted production partners who excel at dye sublimation, I can offer:

• Drinkware (mugs, water bottles, etc.)
• Phone Cases
• And much more!

Dye sublimation is a process that permanently infuses the ink into the material, resulting in vibrant, durable, and long-lasting designs. This allows for a wider range of products to showcase your brand or design.

The Finishing Touch

To ensure the best possible result, I use a finishing sheet after applying the transfer. This simple step makes a huge difference! The finishing sheet helps to seal the transfer, pressing it into the fabric for a softer, more integrated feel. It also enhances the durability and overall appearance of the garment.

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Why Choose Whee! Studios for Your Apparel Needs

When you choose Whee! Studios, you're not just getting merch; you're getting a complete experience.

Quality and Professionalism

I take pride in my work, and it shows in every piece of apparel or accessory I produce. My professional equipment, high-quality materials, and meticulous process ensure a finished product that meets the highest standards.

Design Expertise

As a designer, I offer a seamless experience from the initial concept to the final product. Whether you need a custom design or want to use one of your own, I can help you create apparel that perfectly captures your vision. And remember, my style is eclectic maximalism, so I love to play with bold colors and unique designs! But I can adapt to any style to bring your vision to life.

Versatility and Customization

I offer a wide range of apparel options, including shirts, hoodies, bags, and more. Whether you need a small batch for a special event or a large order for your business, I can handle it. I'm a queer owned business and I'm here to help!

DIY vs. Professional

Sure, you could try to make your own shirts with a home iron. But trust me, the results won't be the same. You'll likely end up with a product that fades, cracks, or peels after a few washes. With Whee! Studios, you'll get professional quality, durability, and a finished product that you'll be proud to wear and share. Let me handle the stress and deliver a product you will be proud of!

Let's Create Something Amazing!

Ready to elevate your apparel with professional design and production? Contact me today for a quote or consultation. I'm excited to bring your vision to life!

Making a Whee! Design CMYK Beanie Hat

A Peek Behind the Curtain: Design and Process

Hey there, fellow color enthusiasts! Today, I'm excited to share a behind-the-scenes look at how I created a vibrant new addition to the Whee! Studios merch collection: the CMYK beanie hat!

The Design: A Nod to Print Perfection

As a graphic designer with a passion for print, I wanted to create a design that celebrates the foundation of four-color printing: cyan, magenta, yellow, and key (black). The design features a series of offset exclamation points, each outlined in one of these vibrant hues, set against a stark black background. It's a playful nod to my brand's name and a visual representation of the building blocks of color printing.

The Process: Dye Sublimation for Vibrant Results

At Whee! Studios, I believe in using cutting-edge techniques to achieve the highest quality results. For this project, I opted for dye sublimation printing, a process that infuses the ink directly into the fabric for long-lasting, vibrant color.

Here's a quick rundown of the process:

1. Design: I created the design digitally, ensuring the colors were perfectly calibrated for dye sublimation printing.
2. Printing: The design was printed onto special sublimation paper using high-quality dye sublimation inks.
3. Pressing: I used a heat press to transfer the design onto a blank white beanie hat. The high temperature and pressure cause the ink to turn into a gas and bond with the fabric's fibers.
4. The Reveal: Once cooled, the beanie is ready to wear, showcasing a vibrant and permanent design!

The Result: A Bold and Playful Statement Piece

The final product is a beanie hat that's as bold and playful as my design style. The colors are incredibly vibrant, the design is crisp and detailed, and the overall effect is a fun and eye-catching accessory that's sure to turn heads.

Want to Create Your Own Custom Merch?

If you're looking to add some personality to your brand with custom-designed merchandise, I'd love to help! Contact me today to discuss your project and let's create something amazing together.