Screen printing and DTG printing are two of the most popular methods for printing custom designs onto clothing. Both have their own unique advantages and disadvantages, which can make it difficult to decide which method is right for you. So, this article about DTG printing vs screen printing will help you choose the right method from DTG printing and Screen printing for your t-shirt printing.
In this guide, we will compare and contrast DTG printing and screen printing, so that you can make an informed decision about which method is best for your business.
What is DTG Printing (Direct-to-garment) & How Does it Work?
DTG printing is a digital printing process that uses inkjet technology to print designs directly onto textiles. The inks used in DTG printing are water-based and are absorbed by the fabric, which means that the prints are soft and comfortable to wear.
DTG printers are generally smaller and more compact than other printing machines, and they use water-based inks that are absorbed by the fabric. This makes DTG printing ideal for small businesses or start-ups that don’t have the space or budget for a big printing set-up.
DTG printing is also a great option for businesses that need to print small quantities of garments, as there is no minimum order quantity. And because the designs are printed directly onto the garment, there is no setup cost or screen-printing fees.
Is DTG Printing Eco-Friendly?
Yes, DTG printing is an eco-friendly printing method as the inks used are water-based and non-toxic. The prints are also long-lasting and won’t fade or crack over time.
In comparison to screen printing, digital textile printing is a more long-term fashion business model. Because one-of manufacturing allows businesses to avoid overproduction and textile waste. A company strategy like this is a game-changer because the fashion industry discards 92 million tons of textiles each year. Furthermore, many DTG printer producers develop sophisticated technology that takes into account environmental concerns.
Pros of DTG printing
- No minimum order quantity
- Fast turnaround times
- Prints can be very detailed
- Suitable for small businesses or start-ups
- Lower setup costs
Cons of DTG printing
- More expensive per unit than screen printing
- Not suitable for large orders
- Limited to light colored garments
What is Screen Printing & How Does it Work?
Screen printing is a traditional printing method that uses a stencil (or screen) to apply ink onto fabric. The stencil is placed on top of the fabric and ink is pushed through the holes in the stencil with a squeegee.
Screen printing is generally more suited to businesses that need to print large quantities of garments, as there is a minimum order quantity and setup costs can be high. However, screen printing can be more cost effective for businesses that need to print large quantities of garments, as the per-unit cost decreases with larger orders.
Screen printing is also a good option for businesses that want to print complex designs, as the stencil can be created to include multiple colors and shading. However, it should be noted that screen printing generally produces a less detailed and less defined print than DTG printing.
Is Screen Printing Eco-Friendly?
Yes, screen printing is an eco-friendly printing method as the inks used are water-based and non-toxic. The prints are also long-lasting and won’t fade or crack over time.
As a business owner, you should be aware of how your firm influences the environment. That’s why considering the long-term sustainability of each printing process is important. Additionally, screen printing necessitates a lot of water and is frequently done with plastisol inks that don’t biodegrade.
Pros of Screen Printing
- Lower per-unit cost for large orders
- Suitable for businesses that need to print large quantities of garments
- Can print complex designs
Cons of Screen Printing
- Minimum order quantity
- High setup costs
- Less detailed and defined prints than DTG printing
DTG Printing Vs Screen Printing – Which Printing Method is Right for You?
This guide has compared and contrasted DTG printing and screen printing, so that you can make an informed decision about which method is best for your business.
DTG printing is a great option for businesses that need to print small quantities of garments, as there is no minimum order quantity. And because the designs are printed directly onto the garment, there is no setup cost or screen-printing fees.
Screen printing is generally more suited to businesses that need to print large quantities of garments, as there is a minimum order quantity and setup costs can be high. However, screen printing can be more cost effective for businesses that need to print large quantities of garments, as the per-unit cost decreases with larger orders.
So, which printing method is right for you? If you need to print small quantities of garments and want a fast turnaround time, then DTG printing is a great option. However, if you need to print large quantities of garments and are looking for a more cost-effective solution, then screen printing may be the better option for you.
Related Article
- Cotton Vs. Polyester Vs. Blends: How To Choose The Best Fabric For Custom T Shirts?
- 10 Best Quality T-Shirts For Printing
- Top 20 Unique Embroidery Ideas For Shirts
- Discharge Printing – Everything You Need To Know
Conclusion
I hope this guide has helped you to understand the difference between DTG printing and screen printing, and to decide which method is best for your business. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. Thanks for reading!
