Detailed artwork that still prints cleanly
Multi-colour prints are used for logos, sponsor layouts, school emblems and merch graphics that need more than a single flat ink colour. We separate the artwork into print-ready layers, match each colour as closely as the fabric and garment allow, then print in the right order so the final result stays clear and readable. On dark garments we usually underbase first, then build the top colours over it so the image stays bright instead of sinking into the fabric.
For surf-town clothing, school events and club kit in Jeffreys Bay and the surrounding areas, this matters because the garments often see hard wear. Salt air, sun and frequent washing can expose weak printing fast. We use inks and curing methods suited to everyday use, and we check that the print sits well on cotton, cotton-rich blends and other common promotional fabrics.
What is included in a multi-colour print order
A proper multi-colour job includes more than the print itself. We help with artwork setup, colour matching, sample strike-offs where needed, and advice on garment choice so the final print behaves properly on the fabric. If your order needs names, numbers or repeated sponsor placements, we can keep the layout consistent across sizes and repeat runs.
- Artwork review and print layer setup
- Colour separation for each ink colour
- Ink matching for brand or event colours
- Sample strike-off for approval on request
- Printing on tees, hoodies, caps, jackets and team wear
- Folding, bagging and bulk packing for distribution
Leandi and Ridwaan normally handle the quote and artwork side, while the production team checks that the print line-up is workable before anything goes to press. That saves time later and reduces waste, especially when the order has a lot of sizes or a tight handover date.
Our print process from artwork to packed garments
Most multi-colour jobs follow a simple but careful sequence. First we check your artwork for line thickness, colour count and placement size. Then we prepare the separations and confirm the garment type, because the same artwork can print differently on a white cotton tee compared with a navy hoodie or a textured cap. After that we prep the screens, mix inks and do a first run for alignment and colour placement.
Once the print is set, we cure the garments fully and inspect the finish before folding and packing. If there is a repeat order, we keep the details on file so the next run can stay consistent. That helps schools, clubs and businesses that need the same branding every season or for monthly events.
- Send artwork and garment details through the enquiry form
- Receive a quote and production advice
- Approve layout, colours and any strike-off
- Printing, curing and quality check
- Folding, bagging and collection or dispatch planning
Turnaround times for local and regional orders
Turnaround depends on artwork complexity, garment count and whether the print needs a sample first. Straightforward multi-colour orders can move quickly if the artwork is ready and the sizes are confirmed. More detailed work, or jobs with exact colour matching, may take longer because each layer must be aligned properly and cured before the next stage begins.
For Jeffreys Bay and Kouga customers, the main advantage is local handling. That makes it easier to discuss changes before production starts, which is useful when a team changes names or an event order grows at the last minute. In our experience, a clear brief saves more time than any rush job can recover later. If load-shedding affects production, we plan around the schedule and keep clients updated rather than guessing on completion times.
Pricing approach for multi-colour work
Multi-colour pricing is based on the number of colours, the size of the print, the garment type, and the quantity ordered. A two-colour chest print is priced differently from a large back design with four colours and a sleeve mark. We also look at whether the artwork needs setup work or a strike-off, because detailed preparation takes time before the press even starts.
For bulk orders, the cost per garment usually improves as the quantity increases. Schools, clubs and event organisers often benefit from grouping items into one production run instead of splitting the order into small batches. That keeps setup costs under control and helps with consistent print quality across the whole order. We quote plainly, so you can see where the costs sit before you commit.
- Lower unit cost on larger quantities
- Artwork setup quoted separately where needed
- Special colours or matching may affect price
- Print position and garment type influence the final amount
Care, reorders and maintenance between runs
Printed garments last longer when they are washed and dried with a bit of care. We usually advise a cool wash, garments turned inside out, and avoiding direct ironing over the print. That helps preserve the detail in multi-colour work, especially on dark fabrics where the top layers carry the most visual impact. For coastal customers around St Francis Bay, Oyster Bay and the broader Eastern Cape, storing garments dry is also sensible because damp conditions can affect packed stock if it sits too long.
For repeat orders, we recommend reviewing branding files and sizing every 6 to 12 months, or before a new season starts. Schools and clubs often change sponsors, badge details or supplier placements, and catching those changes early avoids costly rework. If the same design is running again, we can match the previous setup closely, which keeps the look consistent from one batch to the next.
Who uses multi-colour prints in our area
This service suits surf shops, schools, staff uniforms, club wear, fundraisers and branded merchandise that need more detail than a single ink can give. In Jeffreys Bay and Humansdorp we often see orders for school events, local sports teams, trade groups and community functions. In Gqeberha, it is often for activations, staff clothing and merchandise lines that need a cleaner finish across a larger print run.
Because we work from the Jeffreys Bay industrial area base, we are set up for practical production rather than one-off novelty work. That means the focus is on print consistency, usable turnaround and garments that hold up in real use. If you need layered artwork printed properly, we can help with the setup and keep the order manageable from start to finish.
Key facts
| Print method | Screen printing with layered colour separations |
|---|---|
| Suitable garments | T-shirts, hoodies, caps, jackets, team kit and event wear |
| Colour range | Typically 2 to 6 colours, depending on artwork and garment |
| Print areas | Chest, back, sleeve, neck label and other approved placements |
| Typical turnaround | Depends on quantity, artwork approval and colour matching needs |
| Order support | Artwork setup, strike-offs, folding, bagging and repeat runs |
