Is Direct to Garment the Same as Screen Printing? A Guide to Custom Apparel Printing Methods

Is Direct to Garment the Same as Screen Printing? A Guide to Custom Apparel Printing Methods

(EDT)

When it comes to creating custom apparel, choosing the right printing method is crucial for getting the best results. Many people ask, "Is direct-to-garment the same as screen printing?" While both methods are popular for custom apparel printing, they differ in technique, quality, and use cases. At Image Wear, we often get asked about the best printing method, and we’re here to clarify the differences between DTG vs. screen printing, so you can make an informed decision about what works best for your needs.

What is Direct-To-Garment (DTG) Printing?

Direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a modern, digital printing technique that uses specialized inkjet printers to apply ink directly to the fabric. The process is simple: the design is loaded onto the printer, which then sprays the ink onto the garment, creating a high-quality, detailed print. DTG printing is perfect for designs that require a lot of colors or intricate details. It’s also a great option for small print runs, as there’s no need for setup like in screen printing.

With DTG, we at Image Wear can produce full-color prints with smooth gradients, making it ideal for projects like promotional tees or custom gifts where you want every detail to stand out. When comparing DTG vs. screen printing, DTG shines when you need small quantities with high detail and color variety.

What is Screen Printing?

Screen printing, also known as silk screening, is one of the oldest and most widely used custom apparel printing methods. This process involves pushing ink through a stencil (or screen) onto the fabric, one color at a time. Each color in the design requires a separate screen, which can make the setup more complex and time-consuming compared to DTG.

Screen printing is well-known for producing vibrant, long-lasting prints, especially on bulk orders. It’s ideal for simple designs with fewer colors, and it works well on a wide variety of fabrics. At Image Wear, we recommend screen printing for large runs of shirts, such as for events or company uniforms, where consistency and durability are key.

DTG vs. Screen Printing: Which One Should You Choose?

When deciding between DTG and screen printing, consider the following factors:

  1. Design Complexity: DTG is perfect for detailed, multi-colored designs, while screen printing excels with simpler, bolder designs.
  2. Order Size: DTG works best for small runs, whereas screen printing is more cost-effective for large orders.
  3. Fabric Type: Both methods work on cotton, but screen printing may be more versatile across different fabric types.
  4. Durability: Screen printing tends to last longer, especially after repeated washing, but DTG quality has improved significantly over the years.
  5. Cost: DTG may be more affordable for smaller orders since it doesn’t require extensive setup. However, screen printing is often the more economical choice for larger batches.

We can guide you through these factors at Image Wear, ensuring you choose the method that best suits your project’s needs.

Key Benefits of DTG vs. Screen Printing

When comparing DTG vs. screen printing, each method offers its own unique advantages. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits to help you decide which is right for your project:

  • DTG:
      • Great for detailed, multi-color designs
      • Quick turnaround for small orders
      • No setup is required, which lowers upfront costs

  • Screen Printing:
    • Cost-effective for bulk orders
    • Produces durable, vibrant prints
    • Versatile across different fabrics

Conclusion

So, is direct-to-garment the same as screen printing? While both methods serve the same purpose—creating custom apparel—they differ significantly in their process, quality, and ideal use cases. Direct-to-garment printing excels in detailed, colorful designs for small orders, while screen printing is perfect for large orders and simple designs that need to last. Whether you’re looking for DTG vs. screen printing or exploring custom apparel printing methods, our team at Image Wear is here to help you find the best option for your project.

For more information or to discuss your custom apparel needs, contact us today! We’re always happy to provide guidance and solutions to ensure your design vision becomes a reality.

Back to blog