Printing Process

Eco-friendly Screen Printing Shop

 At LUCKE, we are dedicated to creating custom printed clothing that both looks great, is ethically and sustainably-minded. Our core values of transparency and environmental responsibility are evident in every aspect of our business, from the suppliers we work with to the printing processes we use.

 

Eco-Friendly Fabrics

We work with a range of clothing suppliers who are dedicated to producing sustainable and ethically-made fabrics. Our options include recycled ocean plastic, recycled coffee ground polyester, organic cotton, hemp, New Zealand merino, recycled PET and more. Learn more about our fabrics here.

Lead times and samples

      Lead time is typically 2-4 weeks, but if this time frame doesn't work we can fast track some orders. If you need samples, please email sales@lucke.co.nz

      Use this as a guide:

      Lead Times - Lead times start from when the design is approved and stock is completed.

      Screen Print
      7-12 days depending on volume.

      Embroidery
      About 5 - 10 days

      Sublimation
      About 20 - 30 days

      Heat Press
      About 5-10 days for Supacolours

       

      Clothing printing processes

      The printing process for clothing is often something overlooked by purchasers. However they way we print our fabrics can have just as much of an impact on the environment and where we source our materials. With all of our printing processes, we weigh up between ensuring the end result will be vibrant and long lasting while also having minimal impact on the planet.  

      Sublimation

      Hailed as the “greenest” printing process  we combine it with recycled polyester to get a great overall product.

      In sublimation, the inks (including Hi-Vis inks) are fused into the fabric as opposed to sitting on top of the fabric such as screen printing. The process not only gives fabrics a softer touch after the printing, but it is also very durable. The colour remains strong in outdoor lighting and after extensive washing, so it’s the ideal process for sportswear and school clothing. 

      • No toxins are used in the dye sublimation process thus protecting workers and the environment
      • Zero waste as no dye will get into the water system
      • Saving water Inkjet jobs can consume as little as 20 litres of water per kg of printed substrate – for cotton this can be as much as 10,000 litres per kg

        Screen printing (water based)

        Most people aren't aware that most screen printers use Plastisol ink, which is essentially liquid plastic. In this ink and when cleaning up after a lot chemicals are used.

        At LUCKE, we offer water based inks that have been granted approval by the Soil Association in the UK, having successfully met the requirements of the Global Organic Textiles Standards (GOTS) for non-organic chemical inputs for use in organic textile processing.

        Although depending on your project brief these inks can’t always be used, we aim to educate our clients on water based inks and try to point them in that direction. 

        We still have the capability to use Plastisol and do so when the project requires it, as we want our prints to be vibrant and long lasting.

        Embroidery

        This is a timeless, classic, process that offers a premium, long lasting finish. We work with Madeira threads that are market leaders in this space and have a strong sustainability focus.

        Classic Rayon, is currently the main type of thread that is used, which is made of  rayon viscose that is made from renewable raw materials 

        • STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX®, product class I (suitable for babies/toddlers) 
        • Made in Germany
        •  More than 400 durable and wash-resistant colours 
        • Natural, unique shine and soft feel

        Madeira has also developed newer sustainable threads that we hope to use in the near future.

        • Polyneon Green: Made from 100% Global Recycled Standard (GRS) post-consumer PET bottles 
        • Sensa Green: Made from 100 % TENCEL Lyocell fibres that are full recyclable

        Supacolour transfer

        This process uses water based inks to create a heat press transfer print that can have multiple vibrant colours with gradients and fine detail. 

        • Great alternative to screen printing, especially for small runs with lots of colours
        • Uses water-based inks without harsh or toxic chemicals
        • Transfers come on recyclable paper
        • Transfers made to last , being tested for over 50 washes and still look great.
        • MOQ = 10

        Direct to garment (DTG)

        This process is the “new- school” in printing technology and allows us to offer a print on demand service with no minimums. Watch this space!

        • Eco-friendly water based inks
        • Unlimited colour combinations
        • No MOQ or set up costs 
        • Quick and easy design process