Apparel printing
DTF, DTG, screen printing or sublimation: which to choose
Each printing technique suits a different case. Screen printing wins for large runs in a few colours, DTG for single cotton T-shirts, DTF for mixed materials, and sublimation for light polyester and mugs.
- Single pieces
- DTF, DTG, sublimation
- Large runs
- Screen printing
- Light polyester
- Sublimation
- Simple lettering
- Flex (cut vinyl)
Comparison
| Technique | Material | Run | File |
|---|---|---|---|
| DTF | Cotton, polyester, blends | From 1 pc | PNG with transparency, 300 DPI |
| DTG | Mainly cotton | From 1 pc | PNG with transparency, 300 DPI |
| Screen printing | Cotton and others | From several dozen pcs | Vector, separated colours |
| Sublimation | Light polyester, mugs, tiles | From 1 pc | Full colour, mirrored |
| Flex | Most fabrics | Small runs | Vector, contour to cut |
One source of files for several techniques
A shop that prints with several techniques can have one designer and different templates. The DTF T-shirt template saves a PNG with transparency, the sublimation mug template a PNG at the print area size, and the sticker template a PDF with a cut line. The customer always sees the same designer.
Frequently asked questions
Which technique is the most durable?
Screen printing and sublimation are considered very durable, because the ink penetrates the fabric or forms a thick layer. DTF and DTG durability depends on materials and care.
Why does sublimation not work on cotton?
Sublimation dye bonds with polyester fibres. On cotton it hardly sets at all.
Is a photo suitable for screen printing?
A photo in screen printing needs halftoning and several screens, so DTF or DTG is usually chosen.
See also
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