Design & Research
The UPH R&D Lab
A cutting-edge lab dedicated to revolutionising apparel. Our facility integrates state-of-the-art methodology, exclusive software and advanced machinery to conceptualise, manufacture and print with unparalleled precision.
Unlock the possibilities of creation
Where a print stops being a graphic and becomes a garment
Our team of designers and researchers work to push the boundaries of possibility, merging diverse prints and design elements to create garments that defy convention.
UPH DRL prioritises simplicity and elegance in both design and production, but does not shy away from the maximalist approach. Our commitment to excellence extends beyond conventional boundaries, ensuring that each piece reflects a harmony of form and function.
“Inspired by the beauty of the natural world.”
Edge over the competition
Six things that change what we can make
State-of-the-art methodology
Exclusive software
Expert designers
Advanced machinery
Access to new materials
Wash and abrasion testing
Lab services
Design and printing, side by side
Product design — 3D modelling
Web design & UI design
Seamless pattern design
Motion graphics
Packaging design
Complete branding package
Apparel design — 3D modelling
Apparel design — 2D mockups
Logo design — all aesthetics
DTF Printing
Direct-to-film transfer. Full colour, any fabric, no minimum — the workhorse for small runs and complex artwork.
DTG Printing
Direct-to-garment. Photographic detail on 100% cotton with the softest hand-feel of any method.
Sublimation
Dye becomes part of the fibre. Zero hand-feel, unlimited colours, ideal for polyester sportswear.
Screen Printing
The lowest unit cost at volume, with the thickest, most durable ink deposit.
Vinyl / HTV
Cut heat-transfer vinyl for names, numbers and bold single-colour marks.
Garment Roll Printing
Roll-to-roll printing before cutting — for all-over prints and cut-and-sew production.
Wash durability
40+ domestic cycles at 40 °C with colour-change and crack assessment.
Colour accuracy
Pantone TCX/TPG matching with a spectrophotometer reading on approval.
Fabric integrity
GSM, shrinkage and pilling checks on every incoming fabric lot.
Stitch-out proofing
Every embroidery file sewn on the real fabric before bulk.
Abrasion & stretch
Recovery and rub testing for sportswear and workwear.
AQL 2.5 inspection
Statistical inspection on every outgoing lot, with a photo record.
Inside the lab
Concepts, materials and machines
Join us
An experience into the future of apparel design
Bring a problem the market has not solved yet. Innovation here knows no limits — but it always ends in something wearable, washable and costed.
Let's build something
Have a concept nobody will produce?
That is usually the interesting kind. Send it over — worst case we tell you why it will not survive a wash cycle, and what will.