Live Event FAQ’s

+ How much space do you need to print at my event?

We require approximately a 10' x 10' area of space to fit our press, flash heater, items to be printed and a table for sample displays. Have a preferred way to display samples? No problem, just let us know! We will also need access to a dedicated standard outlet.

+ How many pieces can be printed during my event?

We aim to print between 60-80 pieces per hour. This can vary depending on the type of item to be printed and the average pace that guests order at. We can always preprint some of the items before the event if needed.

+ How long does it take to print a shirt/tote/etc onsite?

From start to finish, the entire process takes less than five minutes to select, print and cure a t-shirt. Guests begin by choosing the size and/or color of their item, then selecting the graphic and placement (i.e. front or back). Then the item is handed to one of our printers and the guests gets to see it printed in real time! We generally ask the guest to stay near our setup until their item is done however if we get rushes we implement a ticketing system so that guests can come back later to pick up their item.

+ What types of ink do you use?

We print with Plastisol inks unless otherwise requested. We can also print with 100% waterbased inks on request (excluding dark garments). Discharge and specialty inks are available upon request (additional fees may apply).

+ How large can you print?

On standard shirts, we print up to 12″ x 18″ (this is still a really big shirt print) with no additional charges, and can print up to 18″x24″ for a large-screen fee. Please realize that all-over prints are not really feasible with traditional screen printing, but if you’re interested, we can still work with you, but higher costs are to be expected.

+ How should I prepare my artwork?

We can accept just about any file type. It should be at least 300 dpi. We prefer Photoshop or Illustrator compatible files. Each file should be color separated and sized to the actual size of the print. The Lords of Print can help guide you through this integral part of the ordering process. It is important to have high quality artwork files to ensure high quality prints. We can also help get your graphics print-ready for an additional fee. Please feel free to contact us at art@thelordsofprint.com for any questions you might have.

+ How do I select ink colors?

We’ll always do our best to match the color you want from your graphic, but please note that colors vary from monitor to monitor, and from the digital world to the real world. If you need an exact color, we can match it using the Pantone Matching System (PMS). Please use the Pantone Coated (C) colors.

+ How many graphics can you print during an event?

Our live print set up includes up to four screens with single color graphics. Unfortunately multi color prints are too involved and time consuming for a live setting. This can be either four unique graphics or the same graphic offered in up to four colors. *Please note we cannot change ink colors during an event

+ What exactly is a one color, two color, three color, or four color print?

The term “one color print” refers to the number of distinguishable colors printed on your garment. For example, a shirt with a black and red design printed on a white t-shirt is considered a two color print. More colors means higher costs of course. For an illustrative example of a print on a white shirt, please see here:

+ What are halftones?

Halftones are essentially small dots of varying sizes that when put together and viewed from the optimum distance give the impression of a gradient, or shading. Think news-print comics. Halftones are an effective way to add depth and shading to your design, while keeping your overall color count low. Ask us how a halftone might make your design standout and keep your costs down.

+ How and where do you guys ship?

We ship UPS anywhere in the country, and if you have a large order, we can probably freight it to you. Alternatively, you can visit us at our shop at 1258 Fitzgerald, Unit #202, San Francisco, CA 94124 to pick up your order for free! We can also deliver it within San Francisco proper for a nominal fee.

+ Can YOU teach me how to print shirts?

Oh most definitely. We hold screenprinting workshops where we’ll teach you the basics of screen printing. Email us at info@thelordsofprint.com or call us at 415-465-1006 to set something up.