AOP stands for all-over printing, which is a printing method widely used on different types of products, such as t-shirts, leggings, socks, and more. It is also known as sublimation.

How is AOP different from DTG?

Unlike when using the direct-to-garment (DTG) printing method, you are not limited to certain print areas. Typically, the whole product surface can be printed. This is why repetitive patterns work best for AOP products.

Due to the requirements of the printing technique, most often a synthetic material (like polyester) is used. In contrast, DTG products use mostly natural (cotton-based) fabrics.

When it comes to garments, they are typically “cut & sew”. This means that the garment fabric is first printed with a design, then the garment is created from the printed fabric.

Please note, that as the AOP garments are hand-sewn, some of the pattern markings used to guide the sewing process may be noticeable on the inside of the garment.

Pros

• The whole product surface can be printed

• Vibrant, long-lasting color outcome

• The printing method uses dyes, so the design becomes a part of the fabric

• Very few designing limitations

Cons

• Limited choice of fabric material options

• Using dark colors (specifically – a dark background) is not recommended because the design is printed over a white material; when stretched, these items can show white lines between the patterns of your image

• Large products will require large, high-quality print files to ensure a good outcome

Ready to add some AOP products to your store? Click here to check out our selection.