Frequently Asked Questions

We have listed the most commonly asked questions, if you don’t see the answer you’re looking for, please call (212) 598-0046 or email us atinfo@worksnyc.org. Real people answer the phone!

Silkscreen FAQs

  • Plastisol ink is our standard, but water-based inks are available upon request.

    Specialty inks are available, including (but not limited to): puff ink, high density ink, glow-in-the-dark ink, neon/bright inks, metallic inks, and foil. Some speciality inks may incur extra fees.

  • Our standard screen size is 13”W x 17”H. Oversized screens are available upon request. If you need oversized screens, they cost $50 per screen, plus $1-$2 additional per garment.

  • Yes, we match Pantone colors. We charge $20 per color.

    Yes, we are able to custom-mix any color ink based on a client-provided Solid Coated Pantone or Hex code. This is available for a $20 flat fee per color (for plastisol ink) or a $75 flat fee per color (for water-based ink).

  • Yes, any ink changes are $20.

  • Yes, we provide digital and even old fashioned paper mockups ahead of scheduled production to ensure sizing and placement is to your liking. We also can show you a photo of the first print when we are ready to produce your full job. We request that if you request this sign off, that you provide a phone number and email address where you can provide a relatively quick sign off for approval or feedback.

  • For dark or colored fabrics we either use a white underlay to ensure colors are vibrant, or we add more hits or layers of ink to ensure opacity.

  • For best results, we recommend that artwork is either:

    • A vector file (.ai, .eps, .pdf, .svg)

      A raster file (.png, .jpeg, .jpg, .psd, .tiff) at 300 DPI or above (at the requested print size; i.e., if you want something printed at 10 inches wide, it should be 300 DPI or higher at 10 inches wide).

    • Looking to print on garments you bring in yourself? Please read our Customer Owned Goods (COG) policy.

  • Yes! Please contact us for pricing and details.

  • Our maximum spot color capability is 8 colors, but CMYK process printing for full-color images is available for artwork with more than 8 colors. Contact us for more information!

DTG FAQs

  • Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is a method of printing on textiles and garments using specialized inkjet technology.

  • We can print on 100% cotton, cotton-blend, and some polyester garments. DTG works best on high-quality, smooth fabrics.

  • No, DTG printing is perfect for small runs and one-off prints. You can order as few as one piece.

  • We accept high-resolution (300 dpi) PNG, JPEG, and PSD files. Vector files such as AI and EPS are also accepted.

  • The average t-shirt print size is typically within 10" x 12". For an additional fee, larger prints are available depending on the garment and design. 16” x 18” is the largest plate we currently use.

  • Our standard turnaround time is 3-7 business days from the approval of your design. Rush orders are available for an additional fee.

  • Yes, we can print on both light and dark-colored garments. For dark garments, we use a white underbase to ensure vibrant colors.

  • We recommend washing DTG printed garments inside out in cold water and tumble drying on low heat to extend the life of the print. DTG prints are highly durable and can withstand many washes without significant fading, especially when cared for properly.

  • We use an CMYK color model for DTG printing, which allows for a wide range of colors. While we strive to match colors as closely as possible, exact color matching may not always be achievable.

  • Yes, our design team can assist you with creating or adjusting your artwork for DTG printing. Design services are available at an additional cost.

  • Yes, we can digital proofs for your approval before beginning full production. Physical samples can be arranged for an additional fee.

  • DTG printing uses water-based inks that are eco-friendly and non-toxic. The process produces minimal waste.

  • Yes, DTG printing is ideal for high-resolution, full-color images, including photographs and complex designs.

  • DTG printing is best suited for 100% cotton or cotton-blend fabrics and may not be ideal for rough-textured or heavily textured fabrics. Additionally, it is not as cost-effective for large bulk orders compared to screen printing.

  • Ensure your design is high-resolution (at least 300 DPI) and in the correct color mode (CMYK). Remove any unwanted backgrounds and provide the design in the desired print size.

Vinyl FAQs

  • Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV) is a specialty vinyl material used for creating designs and graphics on various fabrics. When heat is applied, it bonds permanently to the fabric. HTV is popular for customizing t-shirts, hats, bags, and other garments. It is available in different colors, finishes, and textures, and can be cut into any solid shape or design using a vinyl cutter. Application involves using a heat press to transfer the vinyl onto the fabric, ensuring a durable and professional finish.

  • HTV is different from the material that was used back in the 70’s. Modern HTV is thinner, more flexible, and comes in a wide variety of finishes and textures. It feels softer and more comfortable on fabrics and the designs can look very professional, clean and stylish.

  • Vinyl works best on cotton, polyester, and cotton-poly blends. For other fabrics, please contact us for compatibility.

  • Our vinyl prints are highly durable and can withstand regular washing. We recommend washing inside out and air drying to extend the life of the print.

Embroidery FAQs

  • We can embroider on caps, jackets, shirts, crews, bags and more! Contact us and we’ll help you determine if your item is suitable for embroidery

  • We use high-quality, durable polyester threads that are available in a wide range of colors. Give us your Pantone code and we will find a color that most closely matches.

  • Yes, we can digitize your custom design. New art has a one-time digitizing fee.

General WIP FAQs

  • We specialize in screen-printing, DTG, vinyl printing and custom apparel decoration.

  • Check out the ‘Quick Quote’ button in the header on the top right! If you’d prefer to speak to someone live, call M-F, 9-5pm (212) 598-0046. Emailing is yet another option at info@worksnyc.org.

  • Production time varies depending on the print method but generally, silkscreening has a 10 business day window, embroidery is 15 business days and vinyl / DTG is ready between 3-7 days. We do offer RUSH services for an additional fee.

  • Yes, our minimum for silk screen is 36 and embroidery is 24. There is no minimum for DTG and vinyl but with quantity comes a price reduction.

  • We accept vector files (AI, EPS, SVG) and high resolution PNG or JPG files. See also Artwork Specs for more info.

  • Yes, please ensure they are suitable for the type of decoration you want. Think about dye-migration and heat tolerance as a couple of examples of issues.

  • Yes, we offer discounts for bulk orders. Contact us for more details.

  • Yes, we have a team of designers who can help bring your vision to life. Design services are available at an additional cost.

  • We use QuickBooks and accept all major credit cards, PayPal, ApplePay and cash. A deposit is required to start your order.

  • Yes, we offer courier within the five boroughs and UPS shipping within the United States. For international shipping, please contact us ahead of time. Shipping costs are calculated upon shipment based on the size and weight of your order.

  • WIP is at 59 East 4th Street and we accept walk-ins. The grey double door downstairs is labeled as 59-61. Buzz “1”. Take the elevator to the second floor. We are behind the blue door on the left! Open M-F, 9-5.

  • Yes, we‘re an approved NYC vendor. Please contact us for our vendor number.

Other FAQs

  • Yes, with a digital print or vinyl. The advantage of a digital print is that there are no set-up fees or limits to the number of colors on the print. Vinyl is one color only and can be ordered on dark backgrounds.

  • Price quantities are determined by the number of pieces for any single image not item type.

  • Yes, rush turnaround is available, but there is an up-charge. Email us about your rush project rush@worksnyc.org.

  • Check the quick quote category “Made in the USA” to view these items.

  • No, we use recyclable frames.

  • No, we only sell shirts in conjunction with print jobs.

  • Yes, please call for pricing.

  • We only accept students who come through an accredited public or independent school program. Please check with your child’s school and see if they have internship programs.