Love all the cool oversized prints sold at Urban Outfitters for one zillion dollars? Or is that just a gen z thing? Whether you love it too or just want to keep up with the trends we have put together some advice on how to achieve this look.
Let's first define how big “oversized” is. Oversized typically means any print larger than what will fit into a standard 20"x24" screen. If you can barely get the design into the standard screen size we consider it oversized. And if there is no way it's fitting in the screens printing area and you want bigger its definitely oversized.
Here are some examples of oversized prints that all the cool kids are wearing.
Printing oversized shirts is no different than printing a normal shirt. The size of the print is the most important factor that must be considered during every step of the process. The size of the print doesn’t change the way you print but the materials you use in which to print. Therefore, the equipment and supplies you need will be different than the standard materials you typically use to print.
You will need to evaluate the following supplies/equipment:
- Film – You will need bigger film. Most jobs 8.5”x11” inkjet film gets the job done, with oversized you will need something with more printable area like 13”x19” inkjet film. Please keep in mind that bigger film will require a bigger printer.
- Screens – Now that you have a bigger film positive you will need a bigger space to burn the image onto. We suggest a 23”x31” instead of a standard 20”x24” inch screen. However, you will need to measure your print to ensure that this size is large enough. We recommend at least 1" around the edge of the frame to give yourself enough room for a solid pass of ink with the squeegee.
- Exposure unit – You will need an exposure unit that can expose this large of a screen. The entire image must be in contact with the light to be exposed properly.
- Squeegees – Now that you have your screen properly exposed and ready to print is your squeegee wide enough to cover the surface area of your print? We recommend your squeegee to be 1”-2”: wider than the design. For example, if you your print is 15” wide we suggest that your squeegee is 17”
- Platens – This tip only needs to be considered if you are printing on a larger t-shirt as well. The desired printable area of your garment must be able to load onto your platen flat. If your platen is too small to fit your garment you are going to have a problem. The standard platen is 16”x16” however platens are easy to get in different sizes. You will need to get a bigger platen that will accommodate your garment.
In conclusion, size matters folks.
Let us know if you have any questions or comments, we love to hear it.
