When it comes to t-shirt printing, one size does not fit all. Whether you're designing for your business, an event, or launching a fashion brand, choosing the right garment printing method is essential for quality, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
In this blog, we’ll break down the most popular t-shirt printing methods and guide you on how to choose the best one for your needs.
1. Screen Printing – Perfect for Bulk Orders
Screen printing is one of the oldest and most reliable methods in the industry. It involves creating a stencil (or screen) and applying ink through it onto the t-shirt fabric.
Best for:
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Large quantities
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Simple designs with limited colours
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Uniforms, merchandise, and promotional items
Pros:
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Durable and long-lasting prints
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Cost-effective for large runs
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Bold, vibrant colours
2. Direct to Garment (DTG) – Best for Detailed Designs

Direct to Garment printing uses advanced inkjet technology to print directly onto fabric. It’s ideal for small batches and highly detailed or full-colour designs.
Best for:
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Small orders
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Photorealistic or multicolour designs
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Personalised apparel and gifts
Pros:
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No minimum order
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Soft to the touch
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High-resolution results
3. DTF Printing – The All-Rounder
Direct to Film (DTF) is one of the newer and most versatile methods. Your design is printed onto a film and transferred to the t-shirt using heat and adhesive powder.
Best for:
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Small to medium runs
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All types of fabrics (cotton, polyester, blends)
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Vibrant colour prints
Pros:
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Works on light and dark fabrics
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High stretch resistance
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Crisp detailing and bright colours
GarmentPrinting also offers DTF printing for businesses that want professional-grade results on any garment type. Explore our DTF Printing Services
4. Heat Transfer – Great for One-Off Prints

This method uses heat to transfer a printed design from special paper onto a garment. It's ideal for custom orders, sports jerseys, and personal designs.
Best for:
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Small batches
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Sports names/numbers
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One-off designs or prototypes
Pros:
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Affordable for small quantities
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Quick turnaround
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Allows for complex colours
How to Decide Which Printing Method is Right for You?
When choosing a printing method, ask yourself:
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How many t-shirts do I need?
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What type of fabric am I using?
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Does the design have multiple colours or fine details?
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Do I need a soft feel or textured finish?
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What’s my budget and turnaround time?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right t-shirt printing method can make or break your design. From DTG to screen printing, the decision depends on your quantity, design complexity, and fabric type. Whatever your needs, GarmentPrinting has the tools and expertise to deliver high-quality results every time.
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