Sean Kirkpatrick
Choosing the Right Print Method for Your Custom Apparel
Not sure whether to go screen print, DTF, or something in between? You’re not alone. Picking the best print method for your next apparel run depends on a handful of real-world factors—like your fabric, art style, timeline, and goals.
Let’s break it down without the fluff:
Material Matters
Every fabric reacts differently. Cotton loves screen printing. Polyester? That’s more of a dye-sublimation or DTF situation. The wrong combo can leave you with cracked prints or muddy results, so knowing your material is step one.
Got Details?
If your artwork is super detailed or full of gradients, you’re going to want digital. It handles high-res, full-color designs without blinking. Simpler, bold logos? Classic screen printing still slaps, especially for bold 1–2 color jobs.
Order Size = Cost Shift
Big runs? Screen printing is king. The setup cost gets offset once you’re doing volume. But for smaller batches, DTF or digital gives you sharp quality without a huge upfront investment.
Durability Expectations
Screen printing’s been the go-to for long-lasting prints that survive dozens of washes. Digital and DTF are catching up—but if you’re doing workwear or athletic gear, durability might still tip the scale.
Need It Fast?
If you’re on a tight timeline, digital and DTF win—less setup, fewer steps. Screen printing needs screens burned and dialed in, which adds time (and labor).
Eco Vibes
If you’re trying to reduce waste or go more sustainable, digital and DTF have a smaller footprint—especially with water-based inks and less rinse-out waste. Screen printing can go green too, but it depends on the shop.
Bottom Line: Pick What Fits Your Needs
There’s no one-size-fits-all. The right method depends on what you’re printing, how many you need, how fast you need them, and how you want them to feel and last.
Still not sure what direction to go? Hit me up—I’ll point you to the best method for your exact situation, no BS. sean@printhybrid.com
