The Real Thread Approach to Water-Based Printing & Sustainability Efforts
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The Real Thread Approach to Water-Based Printing & Sustainability Efforts

Explore the vibrant world of sustainable apparel with Real Thread's innovative water-based printing.

In the dynamic realm of custom apparel, Real Thread is proud to emerge as a trailblazer, weaving sustainability into the very fabric of our operations. 

This article delves into the details of their revolutionary water-based printing approach, exploring the process and the profound commitment to environmental responsibility that sets Real Thread apart when choosing a custom apparel provider.

Unveiling the Artistry of Water-Based Screen Printing

Conventional screen printing often relies on plastisol inks, notorious for containing PVC and phthalates – compounds that adversely affect the environment and human health. 

Real Thread takes a distinctive route by embracing water-based printing, a technique hinged on water-soluble inks, redefining the aesthetics of custom apparel.

Water-based inks, known for their ability to permeate fabric fibers, offer a softer texture and enhanced breathability. 

Beyond the visual allure, this results in garments that are not only stylish but also align with the growing demand for sustainable and comfortable fashion.

Real Thread's Sustainability Commitment

Real Thread's dedication to sustainability extends beyond ink choices. Our water-based printing process is meticulously designed to minimize waste and energy consumption. 

Like many other great ideas, Real Thread was born out of discontent in 2009. Screen printing t-shirts was a stagnant market, and it felt like little was being done to breathe life back into it. 

Plastisol inks ruled the market but felt boring, and the prints weren’t worthy of being your “favorite t-shirt” because they lacked that soft, comfortable, vintage feel

Water-based and discharge printing was around, but printers weren’t using it regularly. At the time, water-based and discharge printing felt unavailable to the average buyer.

Fast forward to today, and we arrive at Real Thread in its current form.

Long gone are plastisol prints of the past and entered into a creative team of professionals at a water-based and discharge-only production facility. 

We invest heavily in the customer experience, leveraging technology AND human involvement to create an amazingly fast, smooth, and delightful customer experience.

We have claimed our ground in this fine trade and will continue to be the leader as the art of screen printing progresses further!

But Wait- There’s More.

Real Thread's commitment to green practices goes beyond its water-based printing technique. The company is deeply engaged in various sustainability initiatives. 

Real Thread is committed to properly sorting and disposing of all of our hazardous wastes, most notably the ink used as the basis of the screen printing operation, as these items pose a health or environmental threat when not disposed of properly. 

Common hazardous waste items include anything that is toxic, reactive, corrosive, or flammable. We work with Crystal Clean to have any of the mentioned materials picked up regularly. Our company goal is to reduce our hazardous waste output by 1% per year proportionally to growth and baseline. 

From sourcing eco-friendly materials for our blank garments to implementing energy-efficient practices in our production facility, Real Thread is dedicated to positively impacting the planet.

In the pursuit of transparency, Real Thread proudly showcases the regular use of organic cotton and recycled polyester, reducing the demand for virgin resources. 

You got to the end of the article- congrats! What’s next?

Real Thread seamlessly (no pun intended) blends chic hues with green views, setting an industry standard for sustainable custom apparel. By embracing water-based printing and integrating eco-friendly practices across their operations, Real Thread proves that fashion can be both stylish and responsible.

As conscious consumerism gains momentum, Real Thread stands as a beacon, exemplifying how sustainability is not just a trend but a transformative movement, especially in custom apparel.

The next time you seek to make a statement with custom apparel, consider the artistry and environmental mindfulness that define the Real Thread experience – where every stitch is a step towards a greener future. We’re here for you every step of the way.

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