What does AVID stand for?

Advanced Visual Imaging Design

What is sublimation?

The Definition of Sublimate: The American Heritage Science Dictionary defines sublimation as, "The process of changing from a solid to a gas without passing through an intermediate liquid phase."

The AVID Sublimation Process: The sublimation process begins by printing a color accurate design on paper using sublimation inks. Fabric containing a percentage of synthetic material is then placed on top of the paper and pushed through our heat transfer machine. The heat opens the pores of the fabric and actually transforms the ink into a gas, which permeates the fabric. Once the heat process is complete and the air hits the fabric, the pores close, capturing the ink permanently. The end result, a precise replica of the printed design appears on the fabric.

How is sublimation superior to screen printing?

Dye sublimation printing on polyester material does not affect the hand of the material and is more desirable than screen printing for Home Furnishing and Wallpaper fabrics and the apparel industry. In the United States and Canada, dye-sublimation printing is very popular for Window Treatments (curtains & drapes), chair coverings and sheets and pillowcases. The colors are very vibrant, do not wash out and the process is less messy than screen printing, which requires messy solvent and dyes.
 
Sublimation is also very popular with sportswear manufacturers – any printed uniforms (cyclewear, soccer, basketball and lacrosse) on the market today are done via sublimation. Unlike silk printing, where the ink lays on top of the garment, the sublimation process produces permanent images that will not crack of fade. Also, sublimation infuses the image into the thread of the fabric so that it does not affect the breathability of the garment. Most athletes prefer sublimated jerseys versus screen printing jerseys. Screen printing leaves a layer on top of the garment, which affects breathability and the comfort of the athlete.
 
Dye-sublimation is also cost efficient and very popular for short-run customization of fabrics. Special logos, pictures and designs can easily be created or scanned into the computer. Transfer paper can be generated and custom prints finished in a matter of minutes as opposed to screen printing which requires lengthy time for the preparation of the stencil and assembly of the mesh fabric.

Why should I use AVID’s designs?

Our Art Department is staffed with the most experienced and knowledgeable Graphic Artists in the industry regarding trend and color forecasting capabilities. Deeply passionate about staying ahead of the latest fashion concepts, our team of designers regularly conducts field research and applies the hottest trends into every design. Even if you work with your own graphic designers, our Art Department can act as an extension of your team bringing new ideas and concepts to the table as needed.

What type of designs are offered through AVID?

AVID designers have created over 11,000 Open Line Designs and create 200 new designs each month. The extensive collection of design categories includes Modern, Geometric, Destinations, Bohemian, Romantic, Floral, Tattoo Art, Urban, Nature, Edgy, Patchwork, Asian, Comic Book, Birds, French Toile, Scarf Print, Black & White, and many more.

Will your designers work with me to make a custom design?

Yes. Our designers will team with you to create a design that is perfect for your product.

What is an Open Line Design?

An Open Line Design is a graphic art composition that has been created by our designers for you to utilize in your product line. Think of it as a stock image that you can apply to any fabric, material, or finished cut-and-sewn product. Though multiple customers can view our Open Line, precautions are taken so that you will not see a competitor with the same style in the marketplace.

How long does it take to receive a sample?

Samples are shipped within 3 to 5 business days once all necessary materials and paperwork have been submitted.

When can I receive my order?

All quoted turnaround dates for production are from AVID’s “Start Date”. The “Start Date” begins once all items have been properly submitted for product production. This includes a valid Purchase Order (include the date submitted, due date, sales rep, style name and number, size of image, type of transfer, and pricing), Placements, Cuts, service production Approval (or waiver), and Art Approvals as required. Lead-time for finished products is typically 7-10 business days once all items have been received.

Can AVID Ink pick up or deliver?

Arrangements can be made for AVID to pick-up or deliver completed product to Southern California customers. This service is provided via AVID Truck or UPS Ground. Unfortunately, AVID cannot guarantee specific delivery times. If you require a specific delivery time or priority/overnight delivery, we would be happy to arrange for overnight shipping or a courier at your expense.

What happens to my extra inventory of paper if I don’t use it all for the first batch?

AVID will store your unused printed paper at no expense. You may use the paper you have stored for as many transfer jobs as you would like. However, if there has been no activity on printed paper for six months, you will be contacted for disposal instructions. AVID can either ship the balance of papers to a facility of your choice or safely destroy the remaining papers at AVID’s facility and send confidentially to be recycled.

What if I have more questions?

Contact AVID or call our Customer Service Department at 1-877-AVID-INK.