Making a Whee! Design Beanie Hat Gallery
Dye Sublimation Magic
I decided to post a quick photo gallery of the making of my Whee! Design CMYK beanie hat. Now that I’ve got the dye sublimation printer back up and running, I thought this would be a fun project. I like the quality and color of the new Cobra inks.
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Whee! Design CMYK Beanie Design
Here’s the original design straight from Adobe Photoshop. I tend to use Photoshop more than Illustrator because I feel I have greater control of the results. THough I am using Illustrator more nd more as time goes on.
Printing the Design
Both sides of the beanie are printed on the same sheet of 13in x 19in TexPrintXP-HR paper using dye sublimation ink on an Epson Workforce 1100 inkjet printer.
Final Printed Design
The final print is dry and ready for pressing. Note that it’s printed in reverse so when it’s transferred, the text is readable.
Blank Vapor ® Fleece Beanie
The blank beanies are completely white and have a 1 inch band around the bottom.
Cardboard Insert Makes Pressing Easier
I found it much easier to press the beanies when they are theaded on these DIY cardboard inserts. I can easily turn the edges slightly toward the side I’m pressing so there is no white line along the seam.
Hotronix ® Fusion Heat Press
When I’m pressing at the studio, I use my Hotronix Fusion press from Stahls. It’s got a 16in x 20in platen and is perfect for everything from dog tags to tshirts. The settings I use for the beanies are 390°F for 50 seconds and 0 pressure (just let the weight of the platen do the work).
Loading the Press
Always put a protective paper sheet under and over the item to be pressed. Keep it clean!
Ready to Press
I’ve got the bottom protective sheet, my beanie, and the printed design in the press. Just need to put the top cover sheet on and it’s ready to go!
First Side is Done
After 50 seconds of pressing, open the press and quickly pull the top cover paper and the design off the beanie. Flip it and repeat!
Finished Beanie!
Here’s the finished product! Actually, this is the BACK of the finished product. I only took pictures of this side while I was pressing it.
Here’s the Front
Here’s the front of the finished beanie with my stylized CMKY Whee! Design logo graphic.
Obligatory Model Shot
And then there’s me being all nice and toasty in my stylin’ new beanie skull cap.
So there it is! These beanies are a fun and easy way to customize your winter or fall style.
Here’s some links to some of the products I use:
Stahls Hotronix® Fusion Heat Press
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About Whee! Studios
Whee! Studios, founded by Patrick Hiller, offers exceptional graphic design and web development services for a diverse world. Specializing in branding, visual identity, and marketing materials, Whee! Studios helps businesses and organizations of all sizes achieve their goals through impactful design. With a focus on inclusivity and creativity, Whee! Studios is committed to delivering high-quality solutions that capture the unique essence of each brand. Services include logo design, website development, print and digital marketing materials, and merchandise design.
About Patrick Hiller
Hi, I'm Patrick Hiller, the creative mind behind Whee! Studios. I'm passionate about graphic design and web development, and I believe in the power of exceptional design to transform brands and make a difference in a diverse world.
My journey has included navigating the challenges of depression and anxiety, and I've learned firsthand the importance of self-care, resilience, and finding joy in the creative process. These experiences have shaped my approach to design and my commitment to creating a positive and inclusive space for my clients.
With a background in both fine arts and computer science, I bring a unique blend of creativity and technical expertise to every project. I love collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life, crafting visually compelling brands, websites, and marketing materials that connect with their audiences and help them achieve their goals.
I'm dedicated to delivering high-quality design solutions that are as unique and inspiring as my clients. Let's work together to tell your story and create something exceptional!