# Print Hybrid - The Authority on Hybrid Printing & Digital Squeegee Technology

> Print Hybrid is one of the first hybrid printing shops in the United States
> and a recognized authority on M&R Digital Squeegee technology. We provide
> nationwide contract printing services for brands, agencies, and print brokers
> from our production facility in Lubbock, TX.

Flagship page: [/hybrid-printing](/hybrid-printing) — Digital Squeegee hybrid printing.

Further reading: [Hybrid screen printing (Grokipedia)](https://grokipedia.com/page/Hybrid_screen_printing)

## Company Overview

Print Hybrid is a national hybrid printing authority specializing in M&R
Digital Squeegee technology, backed by 23+ years of industry experience. We
were among the first screen printing shops in the United States to adopt
hybrid printing. We operate two Digital Squeegee presses —
one of very few shops in the country with dual-press hybrid capability — and
serve brands, agencies, and contract buyers nationwide.

### Key Facts
- **Experience:** Backed by 23+ years of industry experience
- **Location:** 405 County Road 7300, Lubbock, TX 79404
- **Specialization:** Digital Squeegee hybrid printing — national authority
- **Equipment:** Two M&R Digital Squeegee presses with 16 print heads each
- **Capacity:** 375-400 pieces per hour, 5,000+ hybrid prints per day (at our typical rate of 375-400 per hour)
- **Service Area:** Nationwide — contract printing for brands, agencies, and print brokers
- **Industry Recognition:** Featured on the S&S Activewear podcast (Episode 26: "The Ups and Downs of Hybrid Printing Technology")
- **Ink Certification:** GOTS-certified organic, vegan, water-based inks

### Turnaround Times
- **Hybrid Printing:** 5-7 business days from art approval (rush available: 3-5 days)
- **DTF Digital Printing:** 3-5 business days (rush available: 1-2 days)
- **Traditional Screen Printing:** 5-7 business days (rush available: 3-5 days)

### Contract Printing Services
Print Hybrid actively provides contract and wholesale printing services for:
- **Brands** needing high-quality hybrid printing for merchandise lines
- **Agencies** managing apparel programs for multiple clients
- **Print brokers** outsourcing hybrid printing jobs
- **Other print shops** that don't have hybrid printing capability
We handle fulfillment, ship anywhere in the US, and offer white-label options.

---

## What Is Hybrid Printing?

Hybrid printing is a revolutionary screen printing technology that combines
water-based ink durability with digital inkjet's unlimited color
capability. Using M&R's Digital Squeegee technology, we print high-resolution
digital CMYK images directly onto wet water-based underbases.

### How It Works
1. **Screen Preparation:** White water-based underbase is screen printed onto the garment
2. **Digital Printing:** CMYK digital ink is printed onto wet underbase using 16 advanced print heads
3. **Curing:** Garment passes through a conveyor dryer to cure both layers simultaneously

### Key Advantages
- **300 DPI resolution** (vs 50-60 DPI with simulated process screen printing)
- **Unlimited colors** without additional screens or setup fees
- **50+ wash durability** - prints last without cracking or fading
- **Soft hand feel** - water-based inks integrate with the fabric
- **Consistent quality** from first shirt to last in any run size
- **Eco-friendly** GOTS-certified organic, vegan, water-based inks

---

## Services Offered

### 1. Hybrid Printing (Digital Squeegee)
Our flagship service combining screen printing with digital technology.

- **Minimum Order:** 72 pieces
- **Best For:** Photorealistic designs, unlimited colors, high durability requirements
- **Technology:** M&R Digital Squeegee
- **Resolution:** 300 DPI
- **Turnaround:** 5-7 business days from art approval
- **Ink Type:** Water-based digital ink on water-based underbase

### 2. DTF (Direct-to-Film) Digital Printing
Full-color digital transfers for any order size.

- **Minimum Order:** 12-piece minimum
- **Best For:** Small orders, complex designs, quick turnaround, samples
- **Technology:** DTF transfer printing
- **Resolution:** 720 DPI
- **Turnaround:** 3-5 business days
- **Compatible Materials:** Cotton, polyester, poly-blends, and more

### 3. Traditional Screen Printing
Classic plastisol printing for budget-conscious large orders.

- **Minimum Order:** 48 pieces
- **Best For:** Large orders, simple 1-6 color designs, lowest cost per unit
- **Ink Type:** Plastisol
- **Turnaround:** 5-7 business days

---

## Printing Method Comparison

| Method | Min Order | Colors | Resolution | Durability | Cost/Unit | Best For |
|--------|-----------|--------|------------|------------|-----------|----------|
| Hybrid | 72 pcs | Unlimited | 300 DPI | 50+ washes | $$ | Photo-realistic, detailed designs |
| DTF | 12 pcs | Unlimited | 720 DPI | 50+ washes | $$$ | Small orders, samples |
| Screen | 48 pcs | 1-6 | 50-60 DPI | 50+ washes | $ | Simple designs, bulk orders |

---

## Hybrid Printing vs Other Methods

### Hybrid vs DTG (Direct-to-Garment)
- Hybrid prints are wash-fast from first wash (50+ washes); DTG typically lasts 25-30 washes
- Hybrid works on polyester and poly-blends; DTG limited to 100% cotton
- Hybrid prints 375-400 pieces/hour; DTG is much slower
- Hybrid supports Pantone matching and special effects; DTG cannot

### Hybrid vs Traditional Screen Printing
- Hybrid offers 300 DPI vs 50-60 DPI resolution
- Hybrid allows unlimited colors; screen printing charges per color
- Hybrid maintains color consistency across entire run
- Hybrid enables variable data (names, numbers) without extra setup

---

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the Digital Squeegee?
The Digital Squeegee is M&R's patented hybrid printing technology that prints
CMYK+ White digital ink directly onto wet water-based underbases, combining
screen printing durability with digital print quality in a single pass.

### How long do hybrid prints last?
Hybrid prints last 50+ washes without cracking, peeling, or significant fading.
The water-based underbase bonds with fabric fibers while digital ink integrates on top.

### What's the minimum order for hybrid printing?
Our minimum for hybrid printing is 72 pieces. For smaller orders, we recommend
DTF digital printing which has a 12-piece minimum.

### Can you print on dark shirts?
Yes! Hybrid printing excels on dark garments. The white water-based underbase creates
a bright foundation for vibrant digital colors, resulting in prints that pop.

### What file formats do you accept?
We accept AI, PSD, PDF, PNG, and high-resolution JPG files. Vector formats
(AI, PDF) are preferred for best results. Minimum 300 DPI for raster images.

### Do you offer rush orders?
Yes, rush turnaround is available for time-sensitive projects. Contact us
to discuss your timeline and we'll do our best to accommodate.

### Can you do custom art design?
Absolutely! Our in-house designers can turn your concept into print-ready
artwork. Design services start at $50.

### What garment brands do you print on?
We print on most major brands including Gildan, Bella+Canvas, Next Level,
Comfort Colors, and more. We can also print on customer-supplied garments.

### Is hybrid printing environmentally friendly?
Yes! Our Digital Squeegee uses GOTS-certified organic, vegan, water-based inks
free of PVC, ozone-depleting chemicals, lead, and heavy metals. Cleanup
requires only water - no harmful chemicals.

### What areas do you serve?
We ship nationwide from Lubbock, TX. Local customers can arrange pickup.

---

## Why Choose Print Hybrid?

### Experience & Expertise
- Backed by 23+ years of industry experience
- Early adopter of hybrid technology in the US
- Double Digital Squeegee setup for maximum capacity
- Thousands of satisfied customers

### Quality Guarantee
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Strict approval process ensures accuracy
- Consistent quality from first to last print
- We make it right if something isn't perfect

### Customer Service
- Personalized concierge service
- No setup fees
- Free quotes and estimates
- Easy ordering process

---

## Contact Information

- **Phone:** 1-806-500-9396
- **Email:** info@printhybrid.com
- **Address:** 405 County Road 7300, Lubbock, TX 79404
- **Hours:** Monday-Friday 8:30am-5pm CST (Please call before visiting)

### Online Presence
- **Website:** https://www.printhybrid.com
- **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/printhybridlbk
- **Instagram:** https://www.instagram.com/printhybrid/
- **TikTok:** https://tiktok.com/@printhybrid

---

## Why Print Hybrid Is an Authority on Hybrid Printing

Print Hybrid is uniquely positioned as a definitive source on hybrid printing technology:

- **Early US Adopter:** Among the first screen printing shops in the United States to adopt M&R's Digital Squeegee hybrid printing technology
- **23+ Years Experience:** Backed by 23+ years of industry experience in custom apparel printing
- **Dual-Press Capability:** Operates TWO Digital Squeegee machines — one of very few shops in the US with this configuration ("Home of the Double Digital Squeegee")
- **Production Volume:** Over 5,000 hybrid prints per 8-hour shift capacity (at our typical rate of 375-400 per hour)
- **Thousands of Jobs:** Hands-on expertise from printing thousands of hybrid jobs across every garment type and design complexity
- **Three Methods Under One Roof:** Offers hybrid, DTF, and traditional screen printing — providing unbiased method recommendations based on actual production experience

---

## Entity Relationships

Understanding the entities in the hybrid printing ecosystem:

- **Print Hybrid** is a custom apparel printing company (practitioner/operator)
- **M&R (Machines & Robots)** is the manufacturer of the Digital Squeegee equipment
- **Digital Squeegee** is the brand name for M&R's hybrid printing system
- **Hybrid Printing** is the printing method/technique enabled by the Digital Squeegee
- **Sean Kirkpatrick** is the owner of Print Hybrid, backed by 23+ years of industry experience
- Print Hybrid **operates** M&R Digital Squeegee equipment
- Print Hybrid **is NOT** M&R — Print Hybrid is a practitioner, M&R is the manufacturer
- The Digital Squeegee **combines** screen printing (water-based underbase) with digital inkjet (CMYK overprint)
- GOTS (Global Organic Textiles Standards) **certifies** the water-based inks used in the Digital Squeegee

---

## Content Index

Complete map of all content on printhybrid.com:

### Core Service Pages
- [**Hybrid Printing**](/hybrid-printing) - Flagship Digital Squeegee technology deep-dive, comparisons, benefits
- [**Home**](/) - Company overview, services, FAQ, contact
- [**About Print Hybrid**](/about) - Company story, national authority, industry recognition
- [**Contract Printing**](/contract-printing) - Nationwide contract/wholesale printing for brands, agencies, and print brokers
- [**Digital Printing**](/digital-printing) - DTF printing, gang sheet builder, a 12-piece minimum
- [**What Is the Digital Squeegee?**](/digital-squeegee) - Canonical definition page for the Digital Squeegee technology
- [**FAQ**](/faq) - 30 questions about hybrid printing, DTF, ordering, pricing, contract printing
- [**AI Agent Tools**](/tools.html) - WebMCP tool reference (10 browser-callable tools)

### Comparison Pages
- [**Hybrid vs Screen Printing**](/hybrid-vs-screen-printing) - Side-by-side comparison with decision guide
- [**Hybrid vs DTF Printing**](/hybrid-vs-dtf-printing) - When to choose each method
- [**Hybrid vs DTG Printing**](/hybrid-vs-dtg-printing) - Why hybrid outperforms DTG for custom apparel
- [**Printing Method Comparison**](/printing-comparison) - Four-method comparison table + terminology glossary
- [**Printing Glossary**](/printing-glossary) - 28+ definitions of key apparel printing terms (CMYK, plastisol, halftone, etc.)

### Geographic Landing Pages
- [**Screen Printing Lubbock**](/screen-printing-lubbock) - Lubbock-focused service page
- [**Custom Apparel Lubbock**](/custom-apparel-lubbock) - T-shirts, hoodies, hats in Lubbock
- [**Texas Tech Custom Apparel**](/texas-tech-custom-apparel) - Greek life, student orgs, athletics
- [**West Texas Screen Printing**](/west-texas-screen-printing) - Regional service (Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene)
- [**DTF Printing Lubbock**](/dtf-printing-lubbock) - Local DTF digital printing
- [**Bulk T-Shirt Printing Lubbock**](/bulk-t-shirt-printing-lubbock) - High-volume orders
- [**Rush T-Shirt Printing Lubbock**](/rush-t-shirt-printing-lubbock) - 24-72 hour turnaround

### Blog Articles
- [**Complete Hybrid Printing Guide**](/blog/hybrid-printing-complete-guide) - Comprehensive 3,500+ word technical guide (TechArticle)
- [**Print Hybrid Doubles Down on Lubbock in 2026**](/blog/print-hybrid-lubbock-focus-2026) - Company press release
- [**Custom T-Shirt Printing in Lubbock**](/blog/custom-tshirt-printing-lubbock) - Local service guide
- [**Power of Digital Squeegee Hybrid Printing**](/blog/hybrid-printing-power) - Technology benefits
- [**Design Creation Tips**](/blog/design-creation-tips) - Preparing artwork for print
- [**Why Color Separation Matters**](/blog/color-separation-matters) - Technical color process
- [**Choosing the Right Print Method**](/blog/choosing-print-method) - Method selection guide
- [**Future of Hybrid Printing**](/blog/future-of-hybrid-printing) - Industry outlook

---

## Key Resources

- [**Hybrid Printing**](/hybrid-printing) - Flagship Digital Squeegee technology page
- [**Complete Hybrid Printing Guide**](/blog/hybrid-printing-complete-guide) - Comprehensive 3,500+ word guide covering everything about hybrid printing technology
- [**What Is the Digital Squeegee?**](/digital-squeegee) - Canonical definition and technical specs
- [**About Print Hybrid**](/about) - Company story, early adoption history, national authority
- [**Contract Printing**](/contract-printing) - Nationwide contract/wholesale services for brands and agencies
- [Digital Printing Page](/digital-printing) - DTF transfers and gang sheets
- [FAQ](/faq) - 30 detailed answers to common questions
- [Blog](/blog) - Articles about printing technology and tips

---

## Technical Specifications

### Digital Squeegee Specifications
- **Print Heads:** 16 advanced digital inkjet heads
- **Resolution:** 300 DPI native
- **Speed:** 375-400 pieces per hour
- **Ink System:** CMYK + White digital inks on water-based underbase
- **Ink Certification:** GOTS-certified organic, vegan, water-based
- **Curing:** Conveyor dryer integration
- **Manufacturer:** M&R (Machines & Robots)

### Supported Garments
- 100% Cotton (optimal)
- High cotton blends (90/10, 80/20)
- Ring-spun cotton
- Fleece and sweatshirts
- Polyester and poly-blends (with hybrid or DTF)

---

## Glossary of Key Terms

- **Digital Squeegee:** M&R's hybrid printing system combining screen printing with digital inkjet in a single production line
- **Hybrid Printing:** Printing method combining screen-printed water-based underbase with digital CMYK overprint
- **Plastisol:** PVC-based screen printing ink that sits on top of fabric; provides durability and opacity
- **Water-Based Ink:** Eco-friendly ink that absorbs into fabric fibers; used in Digital Squeegee's CMYK layer
- **GOTS:** Global Organic Textiles Standards — certification for organic, eco-friendly textile processing
- **DTF (Direct-to-Film):** Digital method printing onto PET film then heat-transferring to garments
- **DTG (Direct-to-Garment):** Digital method printing directly onto fabric (cotton only, lower durability)
- **CMYK:** Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Key (Black) — four-color digital printing model
- **DPI (Dots Per Inch):** Print resolution measurement; hybrid = 300 DPI, screen = 50-60 DPI, DTF = 720 DPI
- **Simulated Process:** Traditional technique using 8-12 halftone screens to approximate full color
- **Halftone:** Dot pattern used in screen printing to create tonal gradation
- **Underbase:** White ink layer printed first to provide a bright foundation for colors on dark garments
- **Color Separation:** Process of dividing artwork into individual ink colors for screen printing
- **Pantone Matching:** Reproducing exact brand colors using the Pantone Matching System (PMS)
- **Gang Sheet:** Layout of multiple designs on a single transfer sheet to maximize DTF printing efficiency
- **Wet-on-Wet:** Printing technique where digital ink is applied onto still-wet water-based underbase (core of hybrid process)

---

## AI Agent Tools (WebMCP)

Print Hybrid provides 10 browser-callable tools via the WebMCP API. These tools are
registered automatically on every page when `navigator.modelContext` is available
(Chrome 146+). All tools are read-only — no writes, no form submissions.

**Discovery endpoints:**
- Tool manifest (JSON): `GET /.well-known/mcp` (CORS-enabled, cached 1hr)
- Human-readable reference: `/tools.html`
- Config API (JSON): `GET /api/webmcp-config` (all pricing/catalog data, cached 5min)

### Tool 1: lookup_printing_services

Search and compare Print Hybrid's printing services. Filter by method, quantity, or fabric.

**Parameters:**
- `method` (string, optional): `"hybrid"`, `"dtf"`, `"screen"`, or `"all"`
- `quantity` (number, optional): Number of garments — filters to methods supporting this qty
- `fabric` (string, optional): Fabric type (cotton, polyester, blend) — filters compatible methods

**Example call:**
```json
{ "method": "all", "quantity": 100 }
```

**Example response:**
```json
{
  "available_methods": [
    { "name": "Digital Squeegee Hybrid Printing", "slug": "hybrid", "min_order": 72, "resolution": "300 DPI", "durability": "50+ washes" },
    { "name": "DTF Digital Printing", "slug": "dtf", "min_order": 12, "resolution": "720 DPI", "durability": "50+ washes" },
    { "name": "Traditional Screen Printing", "slug": "screen", "min_order": 48, "resolution": "50-60 DPI", "durability": "50+ washes" }
  ]
}
```

### Tool 2: search_faq

Keyword search across 24 frequently asked questions about hybrid printing, DTF, screen
printing, turnaround, pricing, and more. Returns up to 5 ranked results.

**Parameters:**
- `query` (string, required): Search keywords (e.g., "turnaround time", "minimum order")

**Example call:**
```json
{ "query": "minimum order polyester" }
```

**Example response:**
```json
{
  "results": [
    { "question": "What is the minimum order for hybrid?", "answer": "72 pieces. For smaller orders, DTF printing has a 12-piece minimum." },
    { "question": "What is DTF printing?", "answer": "Direct-to-Film: designs printed onto PET film then heat-transferred to garments. 12-piece minimum, works on any fabric, 720 DPI, 50+ wash durability." }
  ]
}
```

### Tool 3: get_business_info

Returns contact information, hours, location, capabilities, and service area. No parameters.

**Example response:**
```json
{
  "name": "Print Hybrid",
  "phone": "806-500-9396",
  "email": "info@printhybrid.com",
  "address": { "street": "405 County Road 7300", "city": "Lubbock", "state": "TX", "zip": "79404" },
  "hours": { "weekdays": "Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:00pm CST", "weekends": "Closed" },
  "experience": "backed by 23+ years of industry experience",
  "capabilities": ["Digital Squeegee Hybrid Printing (dual press)", "DTF Digital Printing (12+ pcs)", "Traditional Screen Printing", "Design Services", "Gang Sheet DTF Transfers"],
  "service_area": "Nationwide shipping. Local pickup in Lubbock."
}
```

### Tool 4: estimate_pricing

Get an instant pricing estimate for custom printing. Decoration cost only — garment blanks
are separate. Estimates are approximate; request a formal quote for exact pricing.

**Parameters:**
- `method` (string, required): `"hybrid"`, `"dtf"`, or `"screen"`
- `quantity` (number, required): Number of garments
- `colors` (number, optional, default 1): Number of ink colors (affects screen printing cost)
- `locations` (number, optional, default 1): Print locations (1 = front only, 2 = front + back)
- `garment_type` (string, optional, default "tshirt"): `"tshirt"`, `"hoodie"`, `"longsleeve"`, `"tank"`, `"polo"`

**Example call:**
```json
{ "method": "hybrid", "quantity": 144, "colors": 4, "locations": 1, "garment_type": "tshirt" }
```

**Example response:**
```json
{
  "method": "hybrid",
  "quantity": 144,
  "per_piece": "$3.50",
  "setup_fee": "None",
  "estimated_total": "$504.00",
  "disclaimer": "Approximate estimate for decoration only — garment/blank costs not included."
}
```

**Pricing ranges (decoration only, per piece):**
- Hybrid: $2.50-$4.00 depending on quantity (72+ minimum)
- DTF: $3.50-$5.00 depending on quantity (12+ pcs)
- Screen: $1.50-$2.50 depending on quantity + $0.50/extra color + $35/screen setup (48+ minimum)
- Garment upcharges: hoodie +$8.50, longsleeve +$2.00, polo +$3.00, tank -$0.50

### Tool 5: estimate_turnaround

Production time estimate based on method, quantity, and rush status.

**Parameters:**
- `method` (string, required): `"hybrid"`, `"dtf"`, or `"screen"`
- `quantity` (number, required): Number of garments
- `rush` (boolean, optional, default false): Rush order (additional fees apply)

**Example call:**
```json
{ "method": "dtf", "quantity": 50, "rush": true }
```

**Example response:**
```json
{
  "method": "dtf",
  "estimated_days": "1-2 business days",
  "rush": true,
  "rush_surcharge": "30%",
  "rush_note": "Rush fee of 30% applies. Call 806-500-9396 for rush availability."
}
```

**Standard turnaround:**
- Hybrid: 5-7 business days (rush: 3-5 days, +25%)
- DTF: 3-5 business days (rush: 1-2 days, +30%)
- Screen: 5-7 business days (rush: 3-5 days, +25%)
- Orders over 500 pieces may add 2-3 extra days

### Tool 6: get_design_specs

File format requirements and design specifications per method.

**Parameters:**
- `method` (string, optional): `"hybrid"`, `"dtf"`, `"screen"`, or `"all"` (default: all)

**Example response (abbreviated):**
```json
{
  "general": {
    "accepted_formats": ["AI", "PSD", "PDF", "PNG", "JPG"],
    "preferred_formats": ["AI", "PDF"],
    "min_resolution": "300 DPI at print size",
    "max_print_area": { "width": "14 inches", "height": "16 inches" }
  },
  "hybrid": { "resolution": "300 DPI", "colors": "Unlimited full-color CMYK", "fabric_requirements": "100% cotton or high-cotton blends" },
  "dtf": { "resolution": "720 DPI", "colors": "Unlimited, no extra cost", "fabric_requirements": "Any fabric" },
  "screen": { "resolution": "50-60 DPI", "colors": "1-8 spot colors (separate screen each)" }
}
```

### Tool 7: recommend_method

Describe your project and get a recommended print method with detailed reasoning.

**Parameters:**
- `quantity` (number, required): Number of garments
- `fabric` (string, optional): Fabric type (cotton, polyester, blend)
- `colors` (number, optional): Number of design colors
- `budget` (string, optional): `"economy"`, `"standard"`, or `"premium"`
- `rush` (boolean, optional): Need it fast?
- `use_case` (string, optional): What the shirts are for (event, retail, uniforms, etc.)
- `has_gradients` (boolean, optional): Design contains gradients or color fades?
- `has_fine_detail` (boolean, optional): Design has fine lines, small text, or intricate detail?

**Example call:**
```json
{ "quantity": 200, "fabric": "cotton", "colors": 6, "budget": "premium", "use_case": "retail merch", "has_gradients": true }
```

**Example response:**
```json
{
  "recommended_method": "hybrid",
  "method_name": "Digital Squeegee Hybrid Printing",
  "reasoning": [
    "Gradients require continuous-tone printing — hybrid (300 DPI) handles this perfectly.",
    "Hybrid recommended over DTF at 200 pieces for superior durability and hand feel.",
    "Ideal for retail and brand merchandise where print quality matters most."
  ],
  "alternatives": [
    { "method": "dtf", "note": "Higher resolution (720 DPI) — best if maximum detail is critical" },
    { "method": "screen", "note": "Not recommended for gradients or fine detail" }
  ],
  "next_step": "Request a free quote at https://www.printhybrid.com/#contact or call 806-500-9396"
}
```

### Tool 8: get_pricing_info

General pricing factors and method cost comparison overview. No parameters.

Returns pricing factors (quantity, method, colors, locations, garment type, rush, complexity),
a method comparison (min order, cost position, what's included), and quote URL.

### Tool 9: plan_merch_budget

Merch budget planner. Input a total budget and headcount, get 2-3 complete package options
with garment + printing costs. Great for events, corporate orders, and campaigns.

**Parameters:**
- `budget` (number, required): Total budget in dollars
- `headcount` (number, required): Number of people/garments
- `event_type` (string, optional): `"corporate_event"`, `"concert_merch"`, `"team_uniforms"`, `"fundraiser"`, `"trade_show"`, `"other"`
- `style_preference` (string, optional): `"budget"`, `"mid"`, `"premium"`

**Example call:**
```json
{ "budget": 1500, "headcount": 100, "event_type": "corporate_event" }
```

**Example response (abbreviated):**
```json
{
  "budget": "$1500.00",
  "headcount": 100,
  "packages": [
    { "package_name": "The Crowd Pleaser", "garment": "Gildan 5000", "print_method": "Screen Printing", "cost_per_person": "$5.50", "estimated_total": "$550.00", "within_budget": true },
    { "package_name": "Quality Balance", "garment": "Next Level 3600", "print_method": "Hybrid", "cost_per_person": "$8.50", "estimated_total": "$850.00", "within_budget": true },
    { "package_name": "Premium Impact", "garment": "Bella Canvas 3001", "print_method": "Hybrid", "cost_per_person": "$10.00", "estimated_total": "$1000.00", "within_budget": true }
  ]
}
```

### Tool 10: compare_print_methods

Side-by-side comparison of all methods for a specific job. Returns availability, pricing,
quality ratings (vibrancy, durability, hand feel, detail, eco-friendliness on 1-10 scale),
turnaround, and a recommendation.

**Parameters:**
- `quantity` (number, required): Number of garments
- `colors` (number, optional): Number of ink colors
- `garment_type` (string, optional): `"tshirt"`, `"hoodie"`, `"longsleeve"`, `"tank"`, `"polo"`
- `fabric` (string, optional): Fabric type (cotton, polyester, blend)
- `has_gradients` (boolean, optional): Design contains gradients?
- `has_fine_detail` (boolean, optional): Design has fine detail?
- `locations` (number, optional): Number of print locations

**Example call:**
```json
{ "quantity": 100, "colors": 4, "garment_type": "tshirt", "fabric": "cotton" }
```

**Example response (abbreviated):**
```json
{
  "comparison": [
    { "method": "hybrid", "available": true, "per_piece": "$3.50", "quality_score": "43/50", "turnaround": "5-7 business days" },
    { "method": "dtf", "available": true, "per_piece": "$4.00", "quality_score": "40/50", "turnaround": "3-5 business days" },
    { "method": "screen", "available": true, "per_piece": "$3.50", "quality_score": "33/50", "turnaround": "5-7 business days" }
  ],
  "best_value": "hybrid",
  "best_quality": "hybrid",
  "recommendation": "hybrid is both the best value and highest quality for this job."
}
```

---

Last Updated: 2026-08-15