You have an awesome design. Now you are all set to print it on a piece of fabric. This is a thrilling move to take. However, to ensure that you get the best quality, you should consider the most suitable print method on clothes.
The choice of printing method is the most critical factor in determining how final products will look, how they will feel, and even the lifespan of the products. Additionally, it impacts your cost and the type of designs you can create. In this guide, you will learn about the professional techniques that we consider to be the best. We will assist you in selecting a suitable technique for your company or project.
Quick Review: A printing method Comparison
For those in urgent need of the answer, this is a quick reference chart of the most well-liked clothing printing techniques. This will help you see at one glance the best option for you.
| Method | Best For (Use Case) | Feel & Finish | Durability | Cost-Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Printing | Ideal for large runs (50+), uncomplicated designs, branding logos | Slightly raised and very brilliant colors | Excellent, usually lasts longer than the garment | Very high for bulk orders |
| Direct-to-Garment (DTG) | Good for graphics, complex multi-color designs, single items | Very soft and breathable, the ink is absorbed by the fabric | Good if taken care of | High for small runs or single items |
| Direct-to-Film (DTF) | Printed designs on various materials (cotton, poly) | Soft and flexible, it sits on the top of the fabric | Very good, flexible and won’t crack | Good for small to medium runs |
| Dye Sublimation | All-over printed garments made of 100% polyester | Feel 0, becomes part of the fabric | The print is permanent, it will not fade or crack | Good for polyester-based items |
Really get deep in reading about professional printing techniques
It is essential to comprehend precisely how each technique works in order to make the right decision. Let’s take a closer inspection of each of the professional methods we use for garment printing. This will assist you to communicate effectively with your printing partner and to get the expectations meet.
Screen Printing: The Best for High Volumes
Screen printing is a classic and trustworthy method. It entails the use of a mesh material, also called a stencil, to transfer ink onto the fabric. Each color required by your design will need a different stencil.
This method is suitable for the bulk orders. Examples include tees for companies, band merch, or event wearables. It’s highly effective for uncomplicated designs made up of just a few colors. Things like logos or plain text are great. It is a visibly bright color – even if you use dark shirts.
- Pros:
- Excellent for getting a cheap deal on high-volume orders.
- The print is extremely strong and durable.
- Colors are very bright and pop out from the shirt.
- Capability to work with special inks like metallic or glow-in-the-dark.
- Cons:
- The setup cost is quite high and therefore not reasonable for small orders.
- Not suitable for designs that have many colors or photos.
For a more in-depth look at the process, refer to our full guide on screen printing.
Direct-to-Garment (DTG): For Realistic Detail
Think of Direct-to-Garment or DTG as a unique inkjet printer for clothes. Instead of paper, the printer releases water-based ink onto the fabric. The ink then gets absorbed by the fibers of the material.
DTG is the best-choice for designs that are complex with many colors. It perfectly handles gradients and images. Plus, it is fantastic for short runs or even one item. There are no costs per setup. To get the best results, your digital file should be of high quality. Ideally, you would want to use 300 DPI (dots per inch). Many materials, such as Gelato’s guide on the 6 Types of Shirt Printing Methods & How They Work show DTG for its detailed results.
- Pros:
- Can print unlimited colors and incredible detail.
- The print feels soft and breathable.
- There are no costs for setup, making it good for one-off prints.
- Cons:
- 100% cotton fabrics yield the best results.
- Without a base layer of white, dark fabrics can cause colors to look less bright.
- It doesn’t have the most competitive pricing option for bulk orders.
Direct-to-Film (DTF): All Fabrics Friendly
Direct-to-Film, or DTF, is a new, cutting-edge and very flexible technique. Initially, we print the design on a film, then excess heat is used to transfer the design onto the fabric.
DTF is so cool because you can use many fabrics. This includes cotton, polyester, and blends. It is a fantastic option for full-color logos that need to be sharp and bright. The application can be done on any color of the fabric. As the article mentions when you’re Picking the Best Method for Your Brand, DTF is one of the versatile choices for modern apparel.
- Pros:
- Works on nearly all fabric types and colors.
- Prints are vibrant, sharp, and durable.
- Only stretchy prints, which are also more resistant to cracks.
- Cons:
- The print feels a little bit less soft than DTG as it sits atop the fabric.
- It is not breathable on large prints.
Dye Sublimation: For Full Clothes with Synthetics
Dye sublimation is different in that it is a process where solid ink turns into gas with heat. This gas then fuses with the polyester fibers in the cloth. The dye becomes part of the fabric itself.
This procedure is used for full prints made on pre-sewn garments. They are commonly used in sports or casual wear. It works only on white, or light-colored fabrics, with 100% polyester, or polyester-rich blends.
- Pros:
- The print is forever and cannot crack, peel, or fade.
- You will not feel the print, it is integrated into the fabric.
- Incredibly vibrant, deep colors are the end results.
- Cons:
- Only suitable for polyester or high-polyester fabric mixes.
- Dark-colored or cotton clothing are not compatible.
What is the Right Printing Method to Choose?
So you are familiar with the different options, but how do you find the one that is right for you? A few to answer simple questions will direct you to the proper path. They help you to avoid mistakes. They also assure that the finished custom clothes are up to your expectation.
How much should I order?
The quantity of items you need is the most important thing to consider.
If you need a small batch (1-20 items), DTG or DTF will be your best bets. Both of them have no expensive transfer setup costs, making them ideal for small quantity orders.
For large runs (50+ items), screen printing becomes the cheapest option as the cost per shirt is reduced significantly.
What is the complexity of your design?
The complexity of the art piece is a key issue.
For basic designs that use just a few primary colors, screen printing is the best. It delivers a clean and bold outcome.
For complex artwork with a lot of colors, gradients, or a photo, DTG is the obvious winner. It can capture all the details. There are no additional charges for various colors.
What material are you using to print the fabric?
Your choice of garment material will limit your options.
For 100% cotton, both the DTG method and screen labelling work well. The fabric holds the ink well ending up with a great finish.
For sportswear, 100% polyester or dye sublimation is the best method.
If you’re using a mixture of fabrics like cotton/poly blends, DTF is the versatile choice. Also, you can print on hats and bags with DTF. The rise of digital fabric printing has expanded the options for many textiles.
Do you want a particular feel and finish?
The feel of the print is one of the most important aspects of the user experience.
If you desire a soft and breathable feeling print that is like the fabric itself, you have to go with DTG or dye sublimation.
If you want the traditional slightly raised feel of a durable print, screen printing is the way to go.
If you are after a very bright smooth finish that has a little bit of a plastic feel, DTF or heat transfer vinyl will give you that look.
Be Exceptional with Apparel: Unique Prints
Apart from the basic crafting techniques, clothing can be made to really stand out in special ways. Special prints infuse patterns and finishes that catch the view and create a premium sense. We have extensive first-hand knowledge of these techniques.
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Puff Printing: This is a screen printing technique that makes use of a special kind of expanding ink. When heated, the ink expands and puffs up, leaving a soft, raised, marshmallow-like texture. It thus adds an impressive 3D effect to simple text or graphics. Read more at The Ultimate Guide to Puff Screen Printing. This effect is very much favored by hoodie lovers. We can help with our services as puff print hoodie manufacturer.
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High-Density Printing: The technique is also for the creation of a 3D effect but it is very different from a puff. High-density ink is responsible for making a crisper, rubber-like raised print. It is sharp looking and it is modern.
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Foil/Metallic Prints: This method is based on a particular adhesive and a foil paper sheet. It is used to add a shiny and reflective finish on parts of your design. This is done to get a high-end or glamorous effect.
Conclusion: Realizing Your Vision
Deciding the right way to print clothes is a major step in transforming ideas into reality. The final method for selecting it depends on your order size, design, fabric, and the look you are after. The methods each have their advantages.
By being aware of these options, you will be in a better position to come up with a product you will be proud of. If you’re feeling unconfident, working with an expert can be the best way of going about it. A qualified team can assist you in making the right choice for your project.
Are you ready to kickstart your project? Contact Clothing Manufacturer LTD today and get in touch with our printing experts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Clothing Printing
What is the method that puts the most lasting print on clothes?
In the case of most designs, screen printing is recognized to be very durable. A decent screen print can outlast the shirt itself. Dye sublimation is also permanent because the ink becomes part of the fabric. It cannot crack or peel.
What is the least expensive way to print one custom t-shirt?
With only one shirt, Direct-to-Garment (DTG) usually is the cheapest answer. There are no costs for screen setups making it great for a one-off order.
Is it possible to print on dark clothes?
Definitely, it is possible. Screen printing is one of the best methods to put bright colors on dark fabrics. DTG and DTF are also suitable for dark garments. First, a layer of white ink is applied as an underbase to make your design’s colors appear bright and accurate.
How can I enhance the durability of my printed clothes?
To safeguard the print, make it a habit to wash your clothes inside out with cold water. Use a mild soap and avoid bleach. It is better to dry on a low tumble spin or hang the garment to dry. It reduces the heat and friction which wear the print on the clothing.
What file format should I submit for best printing of my design?
A high-resolution vector file is always the best choice. This is especially true for screen printing. Common vector formats are .AI, .EPS, or .SVG. These can be resized to any size without losing quality. For DTG printing, a high-resolution raster file like a .png with a transparent background at 300 DPI is also suitable.
