Screen Printing v DTF Printing

Written By Holly Garforth

Choosing the right printing method is one of the most important things to consider when ordering your merch.

We offer both screen printing and DTF (Direct to Film) printing with customers often asking us which method they should choose. The answer depends on your specific needs, budget, and design requirements - so let’s go through them now.

What is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is a traditional method where ink is pushed through a mesh screen, that contains a stencil, onto fabric. Each color in your design requires a separate screen, making it ideal for simple designs with solid colours. We use eco-friendly water-based inks that create soft, breathable prints.

Screen Printing Pros:

  • Cost-effective for large orders - The more you print, the cheaper per item.

  • Vibrant, long-lasting colours - that won't fade or crack.

  • Professional finish - with excellent colour opacity.

  • Eco-friendly option - we only use water-based inks.

  • Perfect for simple designs - with 1-4 colours.

Screen Printing Cons:

  • Higher setup costs - for small quantities due to screen set up requirements.

  • Limited colour options - each colour adds cost.

  • Minimum order quantities - make it less viable for small print runs.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF printing transfers your design from a special film directly onto fabric using heat and pressure. This newer technology allows for full-colour prints with incredible detail.

DTF Printing Pros:

  • Perfect for small quantities - even single items can be cost-effective.

  • Unlimited colours - print photographic images and complex designs.

  • No minimum order requirements - what everybody likes to hear.

  • Quick turnaround - no screens to create.

  • Ideal for detailed artwork.

DTF Printing Cons:

  • Higher cost per item - for large quantities.

  • Slightly thicker feel - compared to water-based screen printing.

  • Less eco-friendly - due to the film and adhesive process.

  • Colour vibrancy - may not match screen printing for solid colours.

Which Method Should You Choose?

Choose Screen Printing When:

  • Ordering 20+ items of the same design.

  • Your design has 1-4 solid colours.

  • You want the most cost-effective option for bulk orders.

  • Eco-friendliness is a priority!

  • You need the softest print feel

Choose DTF Printing When:

  • Ordering small quantities (1-50 items).

  • Your design has lots of colours or photographic elements.

  • You need quick turnaround times.

  • Testing designs before larger production runs.

  • Creating one-off custom pieces

What says us?

As an eco-conscious printers we often recommend starting with DTF for small test runs and then move to screen printing for larger orders once you know what works. Many of our clients use this hybrid approach to minimize waste and maximize profits.

Both methods produce excellent results when done properly. Print technology is constantly improving and we’ll always advise you on what is going to be the best route for you. We’re driven by giving you and your customers the very best end result, not by offering you what’s going to make us the most money, we’re not about that.

Hopefully we’ll work together soon!

Holly Garforth