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Simulated Process Printing

Photorealistic Prints with Vintage Soul

Max Size: 17" x 23"50 Piece Minimum

Simulated process screen printing reproduces full-color images—especially photorealistic artwork—using traditional screen printing techniques. By separating your design into a custom set of spot colors with halftones, we create stunning prints that pop on any shirt, especially dark ones. It's our go-to for anything complex, vivid, or requiring that nostalgic concert tee feel.

And you will get

Factory Direct Pricing
50 Piece Minimum Order
Two-Week Turnaround
Rush Upgrade Available
Hundreds of 5-Star Reviews
Located Near Los Angeles
The Latest Technology
Professional Account Reps

How Does Simulated Process Work?

Simulated process printing works by separating a full-color image into a custom set of spot colors. These colors are carefully chosen to reproduce gradients, shadows, highlights, and photorealistic details through halftones and layering techniques. Unlike digital printing (CMYK), simulated process uses Pantone-matched spot colors that can be more vibrant and precise. The end result is a soft-feel, photorealistic print with that iconic band tee quality.

1

Color Separation

Your artwork is analyzed and separated into individual spot colors optimized for screen printing.

2

Halftone Generation

Gradients and tones are converted to halftone patterns for smooth transitions.

3

Screen Creation

A separate screen is created for each color in the separation.

4

Print Sequence

Colors are printed in precise sequence, building up the image layer by layer.

5

Final Cure

The completed print is cured to bond all layers permanently to the fabric.

Simulated process print on LA Apparel 1801GD

Photo-Realistic, Factory-Direct

Complex designs printed with precision. Connect with a dedicated rep.

Free Consultation

No obligation — just honest advice on your project

Your Dedicated Rep

Work 1-on-1 with an expert who learns your brand

Prefer to Talk?

Call us at (855) 942-7636

Upload your artwork (optional) so we can quote from the real design.

Drag & drop your design, or click to browse

PNG, JPG, WEBP, PDF · up to 20MB · 1 file

✓ No obligation✓ Free consultation✓ Dedicated rep
Built for Artists

Why Touring Artists Love Simulated Process

Simulated process screen printing is the go-to for artists who want merch that looks as good as the album cover.

From photorealistic portraits to moody gradients, this method brings complex art to life—especially on dark tees. It's built for tours, built for fans, built to last.

  • Reproduce album art with stunning accuracy
  • Vibrant colors that pop on black shirts
  • Durable prints that survive the mosh pit
  • That classic, vintage band tee aesthetic
Simulated process back print on LA Apparel

Simulated Process vs Digital Screen Printing

Choose the right method for your artwork

FeaturesSimulated ProcessDigital Screen Printing
DefinitionHalftones + spot colors for photorealistic printsDigital print head for full CMYK color
Best ForVibrant colors, vintage feel, Pantone matchingPhotorealistic with complex color gradients
Color AccuracyPantone match any colorCMYK only, reduced vibrancy
DetailArtistically interpretedTrue-to-image
Max Print Size17" x 23"15" x 18"
Special Effects✓ Yes✗ No

Why Choose Simulated Process?

For artwork that demands the best

Pantone Color Matching

Unlike digital methods, simulated process allows exact Pantone matching for brand-accurate colors.

Photorealistic Results

Reproduce portraits, album art, and complex imagery with stunning detail and depth.

The Vintage Concert Tee Feel

That iconic, nostalgic look of classic band merch—soft ink, rich colors, timeless appeal.

17" x 23" Max Size

Larger than digital screen printing, giving you more canvas for impactful designs.

Special Effects Available

Combine with puff, metallic, or high-density inks for added dimension.

Soft Hand Feel

Carefully controlled ink deposit creates a comfortable, wearable print.

Simulated Process Printing FAQ

Common questions about our simulated process printing services

The minimum order quantity for custom simulated process printing is 50 pieces.
Simulated process printing prices are custom quoted per project. Pricing depends on several factors, including: • Garment type (e.g., t-shirts, sweatshirts, performance wear) • Number of print colors and print placements • Order quantity (larger simulated process printing orders receive volume discounts)
Our standard simulated process printing production turnaround time is 10 business days from the date of final artwork approval and receipt of all blank garments. Turnaround time may vary depending on: • Current production volume • Order size and print complexity • Add-on services (relabeling, folding, bagging, etc.) • Shipping or delivery requirements
Absolutely. If you're undecided on which garment to use for your simulated process printing project, we strongly recommend ordering blank samples before proceeding with a full production run. This helps ensure you're confident in your garment selection before printing begins.
Yes. We offer tiered pricing for bulk simulated process printing orders, meaning the more you order, the lower the cost per piece. Our minimum order is 50 pieces, with price breaks available at 75, 100, 150, 250, 500, and 1000 pieces.
Yes, we can re-label blank garments, but it's important to understand the type of label currently on the product to determine the best approach for rebranding. Tear-Away Labels If your shirts come with tear-away tags, we will remove them free of charge and print your custom neck label in its place. Cut-Away Labels Some garments may come with cut-away labels, which are designed to be removed by cutting. While we can remove these as well, it requires additional labor and may incur additional charges.
Yes. Rush simulated process printing orders are typically completed within 2–4 business days, depending on the scope of the project and our current production capacity. Rush turnaround is contingent on the following: • Artwork approval and blank garment delivery must be finalized upfront • All order details (sizes, styles, and print specifications) must be confirmed with no revisions • Availability of your requested garments from our suppliers Rush fees apply and are quoted based on order complexity, decoration method, and required ship or pickup date. Please contact your sales representative as early as possible to confirm if a rush production slot is available. Rush jobs are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.

Simulated Process Portfolio

Photorealistic prints with character

Google Reviews

What Our Customers Say

Rated 5 stars by our clients
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Adam M.

“Garment Decor provides exceptional service from start to finish! Their communication was constant, the quality of the work was absolutely perfect, and the shipping was outstanding. Honestly, in this day and age, it's hard to find a company that delivers this level of service and professionalism. I only wish I could hire their entire team! Highly recommended!”

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Amber A.

“I am extremely happy with the work from Garment Decor! They did an amazing job on our apparel, and the quality of the printing and finished products exceeded my expectations. Everything came out beautiful, professional, and exactly how I envisioned it. I highly recommend Garment Decor for anyone looking for quality custom apparel and great service. We will definitely be using them again!”

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Scott S.

“Garment Decor did a great job on our 3-color screenprinted tote bags! It was easy to design and order them online. Garment Decor provided quick and concise communication about the process. They then texted me a pic of the bags on-press to approve the art. They product was printed and delivered promptly — And they look great. I'm very happy with their work and will definitely use them again.”

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Sean T.

“I found Garment decor on the internet and was not dissapointed. I started and order with them, but had to back out at the last moment. They were professional about it. I came back and placed an order and they came through and surpassed my expectations.”

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Justeen Y.

“Garment Decor always comes through! Great service. Fast, friendly, always working hard to deliver on time with amazing quality work. I refuse to work with anyone else and have built such a good relationship with the staff. Been with them for years and really appreciate all they do. My business is thriving thanks to them.”

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Mateo G.

“Was skeptical at first because of several factors that made it seem to good to be true: all high reviews, very polished website, fast and personable customer service, and a reasonable price. However, I was wrong to be skeptical. Very happy with the shirts I ordered and the whole process. The art team made sure I liked the colors and location of the print and let me change them several times with no complaints.”

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Shawn H.

“Best in the business. Adryan was knowledgeable, gave good advice, got us a quote super quickly and was very reasonably priced. Highly recommend to work with him and this amazing team!”

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Ethan T.

“Unbelievable experience!! The customer service was outrageous. They picked up my goods from a local blanks supplier in the morning and printed and shipped same day. They even send pre-production press checks before every single job and print location. I'll definitely be using them A TON!”

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Torie W.

“I've been working with Garment Decor for nearly 8 years now, and they've consistently exceeded expectations with every single order. As someone who regularly orders custom shirts for both business and community events, I can't emphasize enough how valuable their attention to detail and exceptional print quality has been.”

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A Daily Walk Store

“We're impressed with the quality of service Garment Decor provides their customers. They met our timelines, and we received our order sooner than expected. They go above and beyond to ensure their customers are satisfied, and they did an excellent printing job on the hats. We love how it all turned out. Thank you!”

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Hazard the World Venture Co.

“Amazing! Martine and the crew at Garment Decor were so on top of it and easy to work with! They kept us in the loop through the entire process and made us feel like we were their highest priority even though our order was relatively small in quantity. We highly recommend and cannot wait to work with them again!”

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Ana P.

“We've had the pleasure of partnering with Garment Decor for our merch line, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing. Their team went above and beyond to ensure that every detail was perfect—from fabric selection to design precision. But what truly sets them apart is their customer service. They've been incredibly responsive, attentive, and genuinely invested in making our vision come to life.”

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Micah L.

“Garment Decor is hands-down the best in the business! Their customer service is absolutely phenomenal—friendly, attentive, and always going the extra mile to ensure you're 100% satisfied. We have ordered from them multiple times and every piece we ordered was crafted to perfection, with amazing attention to detail and durability that exceeded all expectations. It's so rare to find a company that truly delivers on both service and product quality, but Garment Decor does it effortlessly. Highly recommend them to anyone looking for top-tier products and a seamless experience!”

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Mazal Market

“Can't stress enough how amazing Garment Decor is, their quality, attention to detail, speed and communication all deserve way more than 5 stars, my embroidered hats couldn't have turned out better than they did. Grateful to have found this gem.”

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Mitch K.

“So professional, fast & caring. From the first phone call to the last, the team at Garment Decor was on top of everything, allowing me not to worry and trust that they were doing their job. They did not disappoint either! I received a quality product that I am very happy with.”

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Eli N.

“Garment Decor is the best in the biz for so many reasons. Devyn and his team are very hands on making sure every detail is perfect at every step of the process. They have the best machines, the best facility and the best team and as a result, the product is always fantastic. They truly aren't happy until you're happy and they're wonderful to work with. On our last run of just 600 shirts, Devyn spent a ton of time helping me perfect the design and tweaking colors to make sure they came out great. Even though we're a small customer, we're treated like VIPs.”

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Erika R.

“Everyone here is great to work with, and they all handle matters with a high level of professionalism. Marcel has been awesome to collaborate with, and he has taken care of our orders with detail and precision for years now. We are really happy with the quality they produce and their quick turn around times. Thank you and your staff for all your good work!”

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DJ R.

“Had a great experience ordering shirts here. Their representative Dan Bramlet was very friendly and informative and Marcel who I believe is one of the owners was nothing but courteous and professional. I'll definitely be repeating my business with them. Highly recommended.”

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JT N.

“Tara and the team at Garment Decor were awesome! Such a pleasant experience to get all my shirts, hoodies and hats done. The quality and pricing were great. I live in WA and was able to do everything via phone and email. They are all easy to work with and provide great customer service. Highly Recommend!”

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VC Corporation

“It was my first time creating merchandise for my company, & Valentina one of their representatives was extremely helpful! She gave me her recommendations and professional insight! I was able to pull the green light, same day! Super excited to continue to working with Garment Decor!”

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Cesar A.

“For my first design shirt design, it was great. Really good detail and quality. I am a very small upcoming business owner and im about quality and Garment Decor nailed it. They were very helpful. I look forward to the next design.”

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Bill B.

“What an awesome company! The masks came on time from their estimate and we were really pleased with the quality. They fit nicely over my big dome and my wife said they fit her well too. They are black, fairly thick, look good and they do the trick. Then I received a follow up email from the owner after delivery, ensuring we were satisfied. Great quality, great customer service and I'm happy to support a local company (Riverside County). I highly recommend them and the masks! Thank you!”

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Austin A.

“Adryan is the most professional enthusiastic sales representative I have dealt with! I've been dealing with Garment Decor since 2016 and I've always had a great experience with beautiful quality screen printing! Highly recommend this team to anyone!”

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Jionni J.

“Simply a great company to work with! Their communication, their quality of work and there turnaround time was exactly what I ask for when dealing with a business. Ceej remained in contact with me through the duration of the job and updated me with anything, quick to answer questions and the whole team knows what they're doing.... hit them up for your custom shirt needs!”

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Max R.

“Their team is extraordinary, Valentina was assigned to my account and honestly was such a huge help. She helped me with garment choices, advice, design suggestions, Etc! It didn't stop there their graphic designers were also such a great help too, I can go on about how amazing their service was but let me tell you the printing and quality was also top-notch. They even sent sample Photos of my pieces before they ran The entire order to ensure I was happy!! I'll definitely be back thank you so much Valentina and garment Decor!”

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Expert Advice

5 Tips for Simulated Process Printing

1

Be Flexible

Simulated process may require color adjustments. Trust your rep—minor tweaks often improve the final result.

2

Optimize Color Count

We balance design integrity with cost by reducing colors where possible. More colors = higher cost.

3

Leverage the Garment

Consider how the shirt color can replace ink colors in your design, creating a more cost-effective print.

4

Mind Ink Density

Lighter ink coverage gives a softer, more premium feel. We optimize for comfort and quality.

5

Expect Adjustments

Minor tweaks during setup are normal. Simulated process is an art as much as a science.

Shop Blanks

Shop Simulated Process-Ready Blanks

Dark garments work best for photorealistic prints

Need it faster? Rush turnaround available — as soon as 48 hours.

Ready for Photorealistic Prints?

Get a quote within 24 hours. 50 piece minimum.