Carefully choose between DTG printing and screen printing for quality, cost-effectiveness, and long-term custom fabrics. DTG printing vs screen printing: both are modern industrial technologies and perfect for different designs and order quantities. Let us Let’s learn what they are, how they work, and how to choose the right printing type for your patches or fabrics.
What Is DTG (Direct to Garment) Printing?
DTG uses an advanced inkjet technology to print water-based inks on fabrics. You can create a soft, breathable, and detailed design with this ink-absorbing option. Ideal for modern complex designs and for creating custom artwork on clothes like jackets, hoodies, and shirts.
Typical uses of DTG printing are:
- You get photorealistic graphics and colors.
- Multicolor custom t-shirts
- Create smart bulk orders faster.
- Eco-conscious clothing brands
What Is Screen Printing?
Meanwhile, screen printing uses a multiple-layer stencil that applies ink to the fabric. However, the limitation is that you can use only one color at a time in screen printing. For vibrant, thick prints, screen printing’s traditional method is long-lasting. It can offer perfect durability and image hold for a long time.
Common uses of screen printing are:
- If the volume of orders is high, you can easily screen-print on clothes.
- Simple logos and bold graphics
- Mostly school uniforms and branded clothes use screen printing.
- Heavy-use garments like hoodies and workwear
DTG Printing vs Screen Printing: Key Factors Comparison
It is time to compare both DTG printing and screen printing and learn the fundamental differences:
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Print Quality
DTG printing works well for high-quality artwork with maximum detail or complex color gradients.
Screen Printing, on the other hand, is popular for its solid colors, which look good but lack complex design features.
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Durability
DTG printing offers moderate longevity; it stays vibrant for multiple washes, but starts wearing faster.
Screen printing, however, provides better durability and lasts longer. You can wear them for multiple years without cracking or fading during regular washing.
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Cost Efficiency
DTG printing is highly cost-effective for small orders due to its simple setup and inexpensive materials.
Screen printing is expensive, but it becomes affordable for bulk orders. So, you should order bulk patches while designing with screen printing.
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Design Flexibility
The DTA printing process can make it much easier to print multiple colors, different shades, and minor detailed designs.
Screen Printing, on the other hand, uses a single color at a time and works best with easy designs.
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Environmental Impact
The DTG printing process uses entirely water-based inks and avoids significant waste, making it more eco-friendly.
Screen Printing, however, uses harsh chemicals and cleaning agents that can cause environmental damage.
DTG vs Screen Printing Quick Overview
| Factor | DTG Printing | Screen Printing |
| Best For | Small orders, detailed art | Bulk orders, bold designs |
| Setup Cost | Very low | High |
| Color Range | Unlimited, gradients | Limited per screen |
| Durability | Moderate | Very high |
| Fabric Feel | Soft and breathable | Thicker ink layer |
| Eco Impact | More sustainable | Less eco-friendly |
| Factor | DTG Printing | Screen Printing |
How to Choose the Right Printing Method
If you want small-quantity patches or fabrics, fast production, and complex design freedom, choose the DTG printing process. Meanwhile, for bulk orders, choose screen printing for higher durability and simple designs.
Choose the suitable printing method for your patches or clothes by understanding both the advantages and limitations.
DTG Printing Advantages:
- Exceptional detail and color accuracy
- Perfect for short runs and custom orders
- Soft fabric finish
- Environmentally friendly inks
DTG Printing Limitations:
- Higher cost for large quantities
- Works best on cotton or cotton blends
- Less durable than screen prints
Screen Printing Advantages:
- Extremely long-lasting prints
- Cost-effective for bulk production
- Works on many fabric types
- Vibrant, bold colors
Screen Printing Limitations:
- Expensive setup for small orders
- Limited design complexity
- Less eco-friendly process
Final Thoughts
In the end, it all depends on your choice whether you need screen printing or DTG printing for fabrics. For flexible, small-quantity product printing, you can use DTG printing. Choose screen printing for more reliable, large-scale orders.
Buy Customized Patches with Ideal Printing Preference
Contact CustomPatchMakers.ca today if you are looking for custom patches in Canada. We sell all types of personalized patches using both printing methods you require.