YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Frequently Asked Questions
Mabuhay Designs • Jacksonville NC

Everything you need to know about custom DTF printing, pricing, turnaround, and ordering. 22 answers covering every topic. If your question is not here, just call or text us.

Questions by Topic

22 answers covering every aspect of custom printing

Why Choose Mabuhay Designs

What is the minimum order?

There is no minimum. We print a single custom shirt or fulfill orders of 500+. Same quality either way. Request a free quote for any quantity.

How much do custom shirts and transfers cost?

DTF transfers start at $4 for small custom sizes up to $45 for large formats. Gang sheets range from $7.99 (build your own) to custom sizes. Our Print & Press service (bring your garment, we do the rest) runs $10–$114 depending on print size and quantity. Add-ons: sleeve prints +$9, pocket logos +$6, design help +$15. Get exact pricing with a free quote.

How long does an order take?

Standard turnaround is 2–3 business days after design approval. Same-day rush service is available for $40 (local pickup in Jacksonville NC). We always confirm your timeline before starting production.

What payment methods do you accept?

Venmo, Zelle, Cash App, cash in person, and all major credit/debit cards through our online store. Payment is due before production begins.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes! New customers get 10% off with code WELCOME10. Military, veterans, and first responders get 15% off with code MILITARY15. Bulk orders (25+ pieces) get custom pricing — request a bulk quote.

What is DTF printing?

DTF (Direct to Film) is the most advanced garment printing method available. Your design is printed onto a special film with vibrant CMYK inks, coated with adhesive powder, then heat-pressed onto any fabric. The result: photographic-quality full-color prints that feel soft to the touch and last 50+ washes without cracking, peeling, or fading. Unlike screen printing, there is no per-color charge and no minimum order.

What fabrics and garment colors does DTF work on?

DTF works on virtually any fabric: cotton, polyester, blends, nylon, denim, canvas, and more. It prints equally well on white, black, neon, and every color in between. No special preparation needed. See our pressing instructions for fabric-specific heat settings.

How durable are DTF prints?

Extremely durable. Our commercial-grade DTF prints withstand 50+ washes when applied and cared for correctly. The print will not crack, peel, or fade like vinyl or low-quality screen prints. Turn garments inside out, wash cold, tumble dry low. See our care instructions for full details.

Can you match exact brand colors?

We calibrate our printers for accurate color reproduction. For critical brand colors, send us a Pantone code or hex value and we match as closely as possible. DTF produces the most accurate colors of any garment printing method. See our design tips for color best practices.

What garment brands do you offer?

We work with Gildan, Bella+Canvas, Next Level, Comfort Colors, and more. If you have a preferred brand or want to bring your own garments, we can print on those too. Our Print & Press service ($10–$114) lets you bring any garment and we handle the rest.

What is a gang sheet?

A gang sheet is a single DTF transfer sheet with multiple designs arranged together. Instead of ordering each design individually, you pack as many as possible onto one sheet to save money. Our sheets are 22–23 inches wide and come in various lengths. Learn how to build a gang sheet.

How do I maximize my gang sheet value?

Fill every available inch. Mix large and small designs. Rotate pieces to fit gaps. We handle the layout to maximize your coverage, or you can use our Build Your Own tool ($7.99) to arrange designs yourself. Upload Your Own ready-to-print sheets start at $15. Full gang sheet guide here.

What file formats do you accept?

We accept PNG (best with transparent background), SVG, AI, EPS, PDF, PSD, JPG, and even phone photos or screenshots. 300 DPI at print size gives the sharpest results. Not sure about your file? Just send it — we will tell you if it works. See our file upload guide.

What if I do not have artwork or a design file?

No problem at all. Many customers send us a rough sketch, a text description, a Pinterest screenshot, or just an idea in words. Our designer creates a professional mockup for free. Unlimited revisions until you love it. Professional design help is also available as an add-on for $15. Design tips and advice here.

Do I get to see a proof before printing?

Always. You receive a digital mockup showing your design on the actual garment color before we print anything. Revisions are free and unlimited. We never print until you give final approval.

Do you ship orders?

Yes. We ship USPS Priority Mail anywhere in the US with tracking. DTF transfer sheets ship flat in rigid mailers. Typical delivery is 3–5 business days after production. Local pickup near Camp Lejeune is always free. Local pickup details here.

Can I get same-day or rush orders?

Yes. Our Same Day Rush Service ($40) is available for local pickup in Jacksonville NC. Place your order and pick it up the same day. For shipped rush orders, we prioritize production and ship next business day. Pickup information.

How do I apply DTF transfers?

Heat press at 300°F for 15 seconds with medium-firm pressure (cotton). Warm peel the carrier film, cover with parchment paper, press 5 more seconds to seal. Settings vary by fabric — lower temp for polyester (285°F) and nylon (270°F). Full pressing guide with fabric-specific settings.

Can I use a home iron instead of a heat press?

We strongly recommend a heat press for consistent results. Home irons do not provide even temperature or pressure. If you must use an iron, use the highest cotton setting on a hard flat surface, press firmly for 30+ seconds, and expect variable results. See our pressing instructions for proper technique.

Where are you located?

We are in Jacksonville NC, minutes from Camp Lejeune main gate. Pickup visits are by appointment. We provide the exact address when you schedule. Local pickup details and scheduling.

Are you really veteran-owned?

Yes. Mabuhay Designs & Co LLC is a veteran-owned, military family business rooted in the Camp Lejeune community. We understand military life — last-minute orders, deployment timelines, unit shirt deadlines. Mabuhay means "welcome" in Filipino, reflecting our Filipino-American heritage and hospitality.

Do you work with businesses, schools, and organizations?

Absolutely. We handle company uniforms, school spirit wear, team apparel, church groups, family reunions, and promotional products. Bulk pricing available for 25+ pieces. We also serve Onslow County schools and government organizations. Request a bulk quote.

Detailed Guides & Resources

10% Off Your First Order

New customers welcome — use code at checkout

15% Military & First Responder Discount

Active duty, veterans, and first responder families