Choosing between DTF and screen printing? Send us the design, shirt idea and count. Those three things usually tell us where to start. We run both methods, so we can price the job around what you’re making.
Why the quantity and colors matter
Screen printing needs a screen for each ink color. There’s work to do before the first shirt gets printed, and that setup gets spread across the run. If you’re ordering lots of shirts with a simple logo, it can make good sense.
DTF prints the design onto film, which we heat press onto the garment. It doesn’t need separate screens for each color. That makes it useful when you want full-color artwork without a large order.
There isn’t a magic cutoff
A bigger count doesn’t automatically make a job better for screen printing. Adding colors or another print location adds setup too. We look at the whole order before deciding.
If you’re choosing between two quantities, ask us to quote both. There’s no minimum for either method here, so the question is what makes sense for the design and your budget.
What does the artwork look like?
A bold one-color logo is a straightforward screen-printing job. A photo or illustration with gradients may be a better fit for DTF, especially on a short run. Screen printing can reproduce complex artwork too, but the preparation is different.
Fine text needs a good source file whichever method we use. Send the original artwork and the size you want it printed. We’ll point out anything that could lose detail.
How will it feel on the shirt?
DTF leaves a layer on the fabric. You’ll generally notice it more across a large solid design than a small chest logo. Screen-print feel varies with the ink, coverage and garment, so it isn’t always softer or heavier.
If feel matters to you, tell us before choosing the blank. We’ll look at the design and shirt together. Seams, pockets and the fabric also affect where and how we can print.
What would we quote for your order?
For a small batch of tees with colorful artwork, we’d look at DTF first. For a larger run with a one-color logo, we’d look at screen printing. Those are starting points, and we’ll explain the choice when we quote.
We print on blanks we supply. Send the style you like if you already have one in mind, or tell us the fit and budget and we’ll help narrow it down. Standard turnaround is two weeks after approval. Ask early if you need a rush.
Taking care of either print
Wash inside out and cold, skip fabric softener, and hang dry or use low heat when the garment allows it. Neither method gets a guaranteed lifespan just from its name. The materials, production and care all matter.
Our printed-shirt care guide covers washing and what to do if a print starts wearing early. For an order, send your artwork, quantities and deadline through our screen printing or DTF service page.
A few questions we get
Which is cheaper for 20 shirts?
DTF is often the starting point because it doesn’t need screens. Send the design and placement so we can give you a price for the actual job.
Can I screen print a full-color design?
It may be possible, but it takes different artwork preparation and more setup than a simple logo. We’ll compare the options for the quantity you want.
What file should I send?
A PNG or Illustrator file is a good place to start. Leave the background transparent where the shirt should show through. If the file needs work, we’ll explain it before production.