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Home > Catalogue
By Aisha - 6 min read
When it comes to custom apparel printing, choosing the right method can feel overwhelming. You’ve likely heard of Screen Printing, a time-tested technique, and DTG Printing (Direct-to-Garment), the rising star of digital printing. But how do you decide which one is right for your project?
This guide isn’t just another technical breakdown. We’ve consulted printing experts to give you actionable advice and demystify the choice between these two popular methods. Whether you’re creating bold, durable designs for a big event or intricate, colorful art for a personal project, both DTG and Screen Printing shine in their own ways.
Screen printing is a traditional printing method that involves pushing ink through a fine mesh stencil (or screen) onto the surface of the fabric. Each color in the design requires a separate screen, making it an ideal choice for bold, minimalistic graphics.
Key steps in screen printing:
Best Applications for Screen Printing:
DTG printing is a modern digital method that uses inkjet technology to spray water-based inks directly onto fabric. Unlike screen printing, it doesn’t require stencils, allowing for high-resolution prints with intricate details, gradients, and a full spectrum of colors.
Key steps in DTG printing:
Best Applications for DTG Printing:
Choosing between DTG and Screen Printing depends on the specifics of your project. Let’s break it down step-by-step so you can see how they differ and which one might work best for you.
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Both DTG Printing and Screen Printing have unique strengths that make them valuable options for custom apparel projects. If you’re looking for detailed, small-batch designs, DTG offers unbeatable flexibility and precision. On the other hand, if you need bold, durable prints for a large order, screen printing delivers exceptional results.
At Yes We Print, we specialize in both methods, tailoring each project to meet your specific needs. Whether it’s a one-off design or a massive bulk order, we ensure your prints are of the highest quality, every time.
But how do you know which method truly fits your project’s unique needs? That’s where industry expertise comes in. To help you make the most informed decision, we’ve gathered key insights from our team of printing experts. Let’s dive into their recommendations for when to choose DTG or Screen Printing—and why.
To help you decide between DTG and Screen Printing, we sat down with two of our in-house experts, Sarah Thompson (DTG Specialist) and Mark Rivera (Screen Printing Lead), for a detailed conversation. They shared their insights, backed by years of experience and hands-on knowledge, to help clarify when each method shines.
Interviewer: Sarah, let’s start with DTG. Why is it such a great option for smaller orders?
Sarah Thompson:
DTG is a lifesaver for small runs because there’s no setup involved. Unlike screen printing, where you need to make screens for every color, DTG lets us go straight from your digital design to printing. This means we can handle single orders or smaller batches really quickly. At Yes We Print, it’s common for us to turn around personalized orders in a single day. Customers love that flexibility, especially when they’re ordering something unique.
Interviewer: Mark, screen printing is often the go-to for large projects. Why is that?
Mark Rivera:
Screen printing is all about efficiency for big jobs. Once we set up the screens, we can print hundreds—or even thousands—of shirts in no time. It’s super cost-effective because the setup cost gets spread out over the entire order. For example, we recently printed 5,000 custom polo shirts with a logo for a corporate event within 2 days. That’s the kind of speed and scale that makes screen printing unbeatable for bulk orders.
Interviewer: Sarah, DTG is known for handling detailed designs. What makes it so good at that?
Sarah Thompson:
It’s all in how the printer works. DTG sprays ink directly onto the fabric, so it can handle things like gradients, shading, and photo-like details that would be tricky for other methods. One of my favorite projects was printing a family portrait on a t-shirt. The detail was so sharp that you could see individual strands of hair—it’s that precise. If you’re working on something intricate, DTG really shines.
Interviewer: Mark, can screen printing handle detailed designs, or is it better for simple ones?
Mark Rivera:
Screen printing is great for bold, simple designs with fewer colors—logos, slogans, that kind of thing—but it’s come a long way when it comes to detail. These days, we use techniques like simulated process printing, which lets us mimic gradients and even photo-like effects. For example, we did a 12-color gradient design for a sports team recently, and it turned out amazing. The colors were vibrant, and it still had that durability screen printing is known for.
Interviewer: Sarah, can DTG handle mid-sized orders, or is it strictly for small runs?
Sarah Thompson:
It’s a common misconception that DTG is only good for one-offs. While it’s fantastic for small orders, the newer machines we use at Yes We Print can handle mid-sized jobs without a problem. We can easily do up to 150 custom t-shirts a day with consistent quality. That makes it a great option for growing brands or e-commerce stores that need custom designs but aren’t ready to commit to massive bulk orders.
Interviewer: Mark, what types of industries benefit the most from screen printing?
Mark Rivera:
Screen printing is a go-to for industries that need durability and consistency on a large scale. Think corporate events, promotional campaigns, or work uniforms. For example, we do a lot of work uniforms, and they need to stand up to tough conditions and constant washing. Screen printing is perfect for that—it bonds with the fabric and lasts for years. It’s also a favorite for event swag. We just finished 10,000 t-shirts for a tech conference, and every single one looked identical, which is what clients need.
Interviewer: And Sarah, what about industries that lean toward DTG?
Sarah Thompson:
DTG is super popular with artists, small businesses, and e-commerce platforms. Artists love it because they can do small runs of limited-edition designs without the risk of overstock. We’ve worked with a lot of independent brands that want to test new ideas before scaling up. E-commerce platforms, especially ones offering personalized products, rely on DTG because it allows every item to be unique. Personalization is huge right now—more than 60% of shoppers say they prefer buying from brands that offer it. DTG makes that possible.
Interviewer: Mark, bold colors are a big deal in screen printing. What makes them stand out so much?
Mark Rivera:
It’s the way the ink works. Screen printing uses thicker layers of ink that sit on top of the fabric, so the colors are bold and vibrant. It’s great for dark fabrics or high-impact designs. We had a client who needed 1,000 custom short sleeves t-shirts with a two-color logo, and after 30 washes, those colors still looked brand new. That’s the kind of durability you get with screen printing.
Interviewer: Sarah, DTG is often described as eco-friendly. Can you explain why?
Sarah Thompson:
DTG is eco-friendly because it’s a low-waste process. We print only what’s needed, so there’s no leftover stock or wasted materials. The water-based inks we use are also better for the environment. Plus, our newer DTG printers are energy-efficient, which reduces the carbon footprint even more. It’s a win for customers and for the planet.
Interviewer: Mark, how does screen printing stack up environmentally?
Mark Rivera:
Screen printing used to have a reputation for being less eco-friendly because of the water and ink used during cleanup, but at Yes We Print, we’ve worked hard to change that. We’ve completely overhauled the process to make it as sustainable as possible. We only use water-based inks and have invested in advanced cleaning systems that cut down waste dramatically. Honestly, while some companies are still figuring out how to go green, we’ve already set the bar high. Our goal has always been to deliver bold, vibrant prints while making sure we’re doing right by the planet.
Interviewer: Finally, what makes Yes We Print stand out in offering both methods?
Sarah Thompson:
For DTG, it’s all about detail and speed. We’ve invested in the best machines, so we can handle everything from one-off designs to mid-sized runs without compromising quality. And we don’t just hit “print”—we work closely with clients to make sure their designs translate perfectly onto the fabric.
Mark Rivera:
For screen printing, it’s our ability to handle massive orders quickly while maintaining top-notch quality. We’ve optimized every part of the process so that even the most complex projects are completed faster than most competitors. At Yes We Print, it doesn’t matter if it’s one shirt or 10,000—we treat every project with the same level of care and precision.
To get a better feel for how DTG and Screen Printing work in the real world, let’s look at a couple of projects where each method really stood out. These examples show how both techniques can meet specific needs while delivering amazing results.
Client: A Local Artist Starting an Online Store
A local artist came to us with a challenge. They wanted to launch an online store featuring their artwork on custom long sleeves t-shirts, but their designs were highly detailed—full of gradients, soft shading, and vibrant colors. They also weren’t ready to commit to a large inventory because they wanted to test the market first.
How We Helped:
We recommended DTG printing because it’s perfect for capturing all those intricate details. Using our advanced printers, we turned their artwork into stunning, high-resolution prints that looked just like the original designs. Since DTG doesn’t require any setup, they were able to start with a small batch of 20 shirts to see how their customers responded.
The Results:
The shirts sold out within days! The artist loved how easy it was to reorder in small batches without wasting money on overstock. As their business grew, they scaled up production with DTG, keeping their operations flexible while delivering high-quality products their customers loved.
Takeaway:
DTG printing is ideal for small orders or when you need to test an idea. It’s also amazing for detailed, colorful designs like photos or artwork that really need to shine.
Client: A Professional Sports Team Needing T-Shirts for Their Fans
A local sports team reached out to us because they wanted to create 1,000 custom tank tops for their fans. The tank tops needed to feature the team’s bold logo in vibrant colors, and since they knew fans would be wearing them all season, they had to hold up to lots of washes and wear.
How We Helped:
We recommended screen printing because it’s perfect for this kind of project. Bold designs really shine with this method, and it’s also great for durability. We used high-opacity inks to make sure the logo looked bright and crisp on every shirt. Our curing process helped lock the design into the fabric, so it wouldn’t fade or crack, even after a season of passionate cheering.
The Results:
We printed all 1,000 tank tops in just two days, right in time for the team’s big opening game. The fans loved them! The shirts flew off the shelves at the stadium, and halfway through the season, the team came back to order more because they couldn’t keep up with the demand. The best part? The prints stayed just as bold and vibrant, even after multiple washes.
Takeaway:
Screen printing is the perfect choice for big projects where you need bold, long-lasting designs—whether it’s for sports fans, event merchandise, or branded apparel. It gets the job done quickly and delivers results people love.
Proper care is essential to keep your printed garments looking great for as long as possible. Here are some simple tips for both screen-printed and DTG-printed items.
Following these tips ensures your screen-printed and DTG-printed garments stay vibrant and durable, so you can enjoy them for years to come!
Misconceptions about DTG and Screen Printing can make it harder to choose the right method. Let’s set the record straight with facts that clear up common misunderstandings.
“DTG Can’t Be Scaled Up”
“Screen Printing Is Just for Basic Designs”
“One Method Is Always Better Than the Other”
“DTG Prints Fade Quickly”
“Screen Printing Is Bad for the Environment”
“DTG Is Only for Cotton Fabrics”
“Screen Printing Is Too Slow for Large Orders”
By addressing these misconceptions, it’s clear that both DTG and Screen Printing have evolved into versatile, high-quality solutions. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs!
At Yes We Print, we don’t just use printing technology—we redefine it. While many in the industry are still working with outdated methods, we’ve fully embraced the latest advancements in DTG and screen printing, putting us leagues ahead. Here’s how we’re setting the standard for custom apparel printing.
Hybrid printing is the future, and we’ve already perfected it. By combining the best of both worlds—screen printing’s durability and DTG’s detail—we can handle even the most complex designs.
DTG technology has come a long way, but not every printer invests in the best equipment. At Yes We Print, we’ve gone all-in with state-of-the-art DTG machines that are faster, more precise, and compatible with more fabrics.
Screen printing has always been the go-to for bulk orders, but at Yes We Print, we’ve taken it to another level. From automated screen setup to precision layering, we’ve upgraded every part of the process.
Here’s the truth: most printing companies are still stuck in the past, using outdated machines and methods that slow them down or limit their capabilities. At Yes We Print, we’ve invested in the best technology and processes to make sure we deliver what others can’t:
We don’t just keep up with the industry—we push it forward. When you choose Yes We Print, you’re not just getting a printing service. You’re getting the best printing service. Period.
Let’s tackle some of the most common (and sometimes confusing) asked questions about DTG and Screen Printing. Whether you’re deciding based on cost, fabric compatibility, or eco-friendliness, we’ve got you covered with clear, straightforward answers.
If we didn’t answer your question here, don’t worry! Our friendly team at Yes We Print is ready to help. Just reach out, and we’ll get back to you within 5 to 7 minutes—seriously. We’re here to make custom printing simple and stress-free!
We get it—custom printing can feel overwhelming, and mistakes happen. But at Yes We Print, we’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s how we help you avoid the most common printing pitfalls.
At Yes We Print, our goal is to make custom printing stress-free and foolproof. We’re here to guide you, advise you, and make sure every detail is handled the right way. If you’re ever unsure, just reach out to us—we’re always ready to help you create something amazing.
At Yes We Print, we understand that no two projects are the same. That’s why we offer both DTG and Screen Printing—to ensure you get the perfect solution tailored to your needs. Here’s why having both options makes us the ideal partner for your printing projects.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all printing. Whether you’re an artist looking for a single custom piece or a business needing thousands of shirts, we’ve got you covered.
How We Help: For small orders or intricate designs, DTG provides unmatched detail and flexibility. For bold designs and bulk orders, screen printing delivers vibrant, cost-effective results. We recommend what works best for you—not what’s easiest for us.
Many printers specialize in one method, but we’ve invested in the best equipment for both DTG and screen printing. This means you’re not limited by what we can do—you’re empowered by it.
Why It Matters: Our industrial-grade DTG machines handle detailed, photo-like designs with precision, while our advanced screen printing setups ensure bold, durable prints even on tough fabrics. Whatever method you need, the quality is always top-notch.
Choosing the right printing method can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Yes We Print, we take the time to understand your project and guide you to the best choice.
How It Works: We consider your order size, budget, fabric type, and design complexity to recommend the method that delivers the best results. From start to finish, you’ll have a team of experts making sure everything goes smoothly.
Offering both DTG and Screen Printing isn’t just about flexibility—it’s about giving you the confidence that your project is in the right hands. At Yes We Print, we pride ourselves on delivering exactly what you need, whether it’s a single shirt or a massive order. Not sure which method is best? We’ll figure it out together—and we’ll make sure it’s perfect.
Choosing between DTG and Screen Printing doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about finding what works best for your specific needs. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
At the end of the day, both methods are heroes in their own right. It’s not about which is better—it’s about which is better for your project. And with Yes We Print, you don’t have to make that decision alone. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Still not sure which method is best for you? Let the experts at Yes We Print help!
Let’s bring your vision to life!
Jul 06, 2021
Jul 06, 2021
Jul 06, 2021
Jul 06, 2021