Screen print
Low riskWater-based and plastisol screen prints on cotton generally survive the dye bath well. Thick ink layers may show slight cracking over time, but the graphic holds its shape.
Custom Work
Choose → prepare → submit for review
Send a Piece / Existing Art
Over-Dye a Printed Tee
Printed cotton tees need their own process so the original graphic and new dye story work together.
- Print-first review
- Photos required
- Variable results
Two Stories, One Piece
The print already has a history. The dye adds another.
The Graphic
What came before.
- The original print is part of the finished piece — Donut is not covering it up.
- Some color shift in the print area is expected and often looks intentional.
- Prints with high heat transfer risk may need to be discussed before work begins.
The Dye
What comes after.
- The dye works around and through the print depending on ink type and fiber exposure.
- The new color story can amplify, complement, or contrast with the graphic.
- Results in print areas are less predictable than on blank cotton — that is part of the appeal.
Print Type Guide
Different inks react differently. Know before you send.
Digital / DTG
Moderate riskDirect-to-garment prints vary widely by brand and age. Newer prints on pre-treated cotton can fade or bleed. Older prints are less predictable — send a photo first.
Discharge print
Low riskDischarge pulls the original dye rather than sitting on top of it. These areas will re-dye with the new color — often cleanly and with results that look completely intentional.
Heat transfer / vinyl
High riskHTV and iron-on transfers can delaminate in hot water. Vinyl does not absorb dye and creates a hard edge where the garment color shifts around the transfer boundary.
Before You Ship
Send photos before the tee moves.
Printed tees are the most variable garment in the studio. An early look at the print type, ink condition, and garment construction helps Donut set realistic expectations before work starts.
Project Inquiry
Submit the printed tee for review.
Donut reviews the details and photos before approving a shipment. Submitting this form does not reserve a slot or authorize you to ship.
Send a PiecePrinted Tees
A cotton graphic tee or sweatshirt whose print can tolerate a dye-bath review.
Evidence for this review
- Readable fiber tag and full front/back views
- Close photo showing print texture and condition
- Known print method, cracking, repairs, or damage
- 01SubmitDetails and photos
- 02ReviewFit, risk, and timing
- 03ConfirmApproval before shipping