Quality & Durability: Printing Process, Fabric Specs & Care Guide
Quality & Durability: Our Printing Process, Fabric Specs & Care Guide
Hot Takes Designs apparel is made using two printing methods depending on the style: direct-to-fabric (DTG) printing on 100% combed cotton tees, and all-over dye-sublimation printing on 180gsm polyester-blend tees. Both methods lock ink into the fabric fibers rather than sitting on top of them, which is why our graphics resist cracking, peeling, and fading when washed correctly. This page explains exactly how each process works, the fabric weight (GSM) behind it, and the care routine that keeps your prints looking new.
Our Printing Processes, Explained
| Process | Used On | How It Works | Durability Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct-to-Fabric (DTG) Printing | Solid-base cotton tees with front/back graphics (e.g., our BTS Hooligan tee line) | Ink is printed directly onto the woven cotton surface and cured into the fibers | Fade-resistant with correct care; avoid high heat and bleach to protect the print |
| All-Over Dye-Sublimation Printing | All-over print polyester-blend tees (e.g., our Skeleton Siren and BT21 Hooligan lines) | Dye is heat-transferred and fused directly into the polyester fibers at a molecular level, edge to edge | Won't crack or peel since the ink becomes part of the fabric; keep wash temperature under 45°C / 113°F |
Fabric & Weight (GSM)
GSM stands for "grams per square meter" — it measures fabric weight and density. Higher GSM generally means a thicker, more durable tee; lower GSM means a lighter, more breathable one. Here's what's under each Hot Takes Designs tee:
| Fabric | Weight | Composition | Used On |
|---|---|---|---|
| Combed Ring-Spun Cotton | 4.2 oz/yd² (approx. 142 gsm) | 100% combed ring-spun cotton | DTG-printed tees |
| Polyester Performance Blend (incl. Sorona) | 180 gsm | Polyester-spandex or Sorona polyester blend | All-over sublimation-printed tees |
Exact fabric weight and composition are listed on each individual product page, since our all-over print styles and solid-base graphic styles use different base garments.
How to Wash & Care for Your Hot Takes Designs Apparel
Follow these five steps to prevent peeling, cracking, or fading on both DTG-printed and sublimation-printed tees:
- Turn the garment inside out before washing to protect the printed surface from friction.
- Wash cold, at or below 45°C / 113°F, on a gentle cycle, with like colors.
- Use a mild detergent and skip the bleach — bleach breaks down both cotton fibers and sublimation dye.
- Do not soak the garment for extended periods, and avoid the delicate fabric getting twisted or wrung out.
- Hang dry or tumble dry on low heat. High heat is the #1 cause of print cracking and fabric shrinkage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What printing method does Hot Takes Designs use?
We use two methods: direct-to-fabric (DTG) printing for solid-base cotton tees with front/back graphics, and all-over dye-sublimation printing for full-print polyester-blend tees. The product description on each listing states which method was used.
What is GSM and why does it matter?
GSM (grams per square meter) measures how much a fabric weighs relative to its area. Our cotton DTG tees run about 142 gsm (4.2 oz/yd²), and our sublimation all-over print tees run 180 gsm — both are mid-weight fabrics built for everyday wear and stadium/concert use.
Can I put Hot Takes Designs apparel in the dryer?
Yes, but use low heat only. High heat is the most common cause of print cracking, peeling, and fabric shrinkage on both DTG and sublimation prints. Hang drying is the safest option.