How each method works
- Screen printing: ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto the fabric, one screen per colour. Setup takes time, then printing is fast.
- DTF (direct to film): the design is printed onto a film with adhesive powder, then heat-pressed onto the garment.
- DTG (direct to garment): an inkjet printer sprays ink directly into the fabric, like a paper printer.
Side-by-side comparison
| Factor | Screen printing | DTF | DTG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best quantity | Moderate to large | 1 to moderate | 1 to small |
| Setup cost | Screens per colour | Low | Low |
| Colours | Few colours is cheapest | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Detail and gradients | Limited | Very good | Excellent |
| Durability | Excellent | Very good | Good |
| Feel | Soft (water-based) to thick (plastisol) | Thin layer on top | Soft, in the fabric |
| Fabrics | Cotton, blends, many others | Cotton, polyester, blends | Mainly high-cotton |
| Dark garments | Very good | Very good | Needs pre-treatment |
How cost changes with quantity
Screen printing has a fixed setup cost for each colour, so the price per piece falls quickly as quantity rises. DTF and DTG have almost no setup, so their price per piece stays fairly flat. That is why DTF and DTG usually win at small quantities, and screen printing wins as orders grow, especially for one or two colour designs.
Other decoration options
- Puff print: a raised, textured screen print popular in streetwear.
- Embroidery: premium and durable for logos. Cost depends on stitch count, not colours.
- Sublimation: all-over prints on white polyester, common in sportswear.
- Discharge printing: removes dye from the fabric for a very soft vintage feel on cotton.
Which method for which brand
| Brand situation | Good choice |
|---|---|
| First drop, multi-colour artwork, under 100 pieces | DTF |
| Photographic art on cotton tees | DTG |
| Simple logo, reorders of a bestseller | Screen print |
| Streetwear with texture | Puff print or screen print |
| Premium minimal branding | Embroidery |
| Polyester sportswear | DTF or sublimation |
Check print quality on your sample
- Sharp edges and correct colours against your artwork.
- Placement measured from the neck seam, as in your tech pack.
- No cracking when stretched.
- Three to five washes without fading or peeling.
Not sure which method fits your design and quantity? Send us your artwork and we will suggest the best option.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, DTF or screen printing?
Screen printing is usually more durable and becomes cheaper per piece at larger quantities, especially for designs with few colours. DTF is better for small quantities and multi-colour or detailed designs because it needs no screens.
Is DTF printing durable?
Good-quality DTF prints are durable for many washes when applied correctly. Washing inside out in cold water and avoiding high dryer heat helps them last.
Which print method feels softest?
DTG and water-based screen prints feel softest because the ink sits in the fabric. DTF and plastisol screen prints sit on top of the fabric and feel slightly heavier.
Can DTG print on polyester?
DTG works best on high-cotton fabrics. For polyester and blends, DTF or sublimation is usually a better choice.
What is the best print method for small batches?
For small batches, DTF and DTG avoid screen setup costs and handle full-colour designs. For simple one or two colour logos, screen printing can still be cost-effective at moderate quantities.