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What's the difference between screen printing and DTF

When it comes to custom clothing and branded apparel, choosing the right printing method is essential to achieving the perfect look for your designs. Two of the most popular options are screen printing and digital printing, but what’s the difference, and which one is best for your needs? Let’s break it down.


What is screen printing?

Screen printing is a classic technique that involves creating a stencil (or “screen”) for each colour in the design. Ink is then pushed through the screen onto the fabric, layer by layer.


Key Features of Screen Printing


Vibrant Colours

Produces bold, rich colours, making it ideal for designs that require solid and consistent shades.


Durability

The ink penetrates deeply into the fabric, resulting in a long-lasting print that holds up well to washing and wear.


Cost-Effective for Large Orders

Best suited for bulk printing because the setup costs (creating screens) are spread across multiple items.


Limitations

Less practical for small orders or designs with intricate details or gradients, as each colour requires a separate screen.


Who is screenprinting ideal for?


  • Simple designs with few colours.

  • Bulk orders, such as uniforms or promotional T-shirts.

  • Durable prints for long-term use.





What is Digital Printing?

Digital printing, also known as Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing, uses a specialised printer to apply ink directly onto the fabric. This method works similarly to how an inkjet printer prints on paper.


Key Features of Digital Printing

High Detail

Excellent for complex designs with intricate details, gradients, or photographic images.


No Minimum Order

Ideal for small runs or even single items, as there are no setup costs like with screen printing.


Soft Finish

The ink bonds directly with the fabric, resulting in a smooth, natural feel.


Limitations

Less vibrant colours compared to screen printing, especially on dark fabrics. It’s also slightly less durable over time, as the print can fade with repeated washing.


Who is Digital printing ideal for?

  • Customised designs with lots of detail or full-colour images.

  • Small orders or one-off prints.

  • Quick turnaround times for fast production.


Key Differences Between Screen Printing and Digital Printing


Feature

Screen Printing

Digital Printing

Setup Time

Longer due to screen preparation

Minimal, as designs are printed directly

Cost for Small Orders

Higher due to setup costs

Lower, as no screens are required

Cost for Large Orders

More cost-effective for bulk printing

More expensive for high volumes

Design Complexity

Best for simple designs with few colours

Ideal for detailed, multi-colour designs

Durability

Extremely durable, lasts through washes

Less durable, can fade over time

Colour Vibrancy

Vibrant and bold

Softer, less vivid colours









Which One Should You Choose?

The best printing method depends on your specific needs:


Choose Screen Printing If

You have a simple design, need a high volume of prints, or want a durable and bold finish. It’s great for logos, slogans, or solid-colour designs.


Choose Digital Printing If

You need a small quantity of items, have a complex design with gradients or photographs, or want quick production with no setup costs.





Our thoughts

Both screen printing and digital printing have their strengths, and the right choice depends on your design, quantity, and budget. Screen printing excels for bold, large orders, while digital printing shines for detailed, small runs.


Still unsure which method is best for your project? Contact us today, and we’ll help you choose the perfect printing technique to bring your vision to life!

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