We do both at the shop, so we have no favourite to sell you. The right technique mostly depends on three things: how many pieces you want, how many colours your design has, and your budget.
At a glance
| Screen printing | DTF | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum | 24 pieces per design | 1 piece |
| Colours | Up to 6 | Unlimited |
| Gradients and photos | Possible, but limited | Yes |
| 24 tees, 1 colour | $11 to $12 each | $13 to $15 each |
| 100 tees, 1 colour | $8 to $9 each | $11 to $12 each |
| Feel | Soft ink, part of the fabric | Thin film, slightly smoother |
| Fabrics | Cotton, poly-cotton | Almost any heat-resistant fabric |
Pick screen printing if…
- You’re ordering 24 or more pieces of the same design.
- Your design has a few solid colours: a logo, lettering, a flat illustration.
- You want the best price per unit on a large quantity.
- You want the classic band tee look: the ink becomes part of the garment.
Pick DTF if…
- You only need a few pieces, or a one-off.
- Your design has lots of colours, gradients or a photo.
- You want to test a design before printing a large run.
- You’re printing on a fabric screen printing struggles with, like some polyesters or technical fabrics.
What about embroidery?
For caps, toques, polos and jackets, embroidery is often the best choice: it survives years of washing and has a more premium finish. It starts at 12 pieces, logo digitizing included.
Either way: care
A well-made print lasts a long time if you treat it right. Wash the garment inside out, in cold water, and avoid high-heat drying. Never iron directly on the print.
Still unsure? Send us your design and quantity: we’ll tell you which technique gives the best result for your budget.