DTF vs Screen Printing: Which Is Better for Custom Shirts?

If you're ordering custom shirts, you've probably heard of screen printing. It's been around for decades. But there's a newer method called DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing that's changing the game. Here's what you need to know.

What Is Screen Printing?

Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh screen onto fabric. Each color needs its own screen, which is why setup costs can be high for multi-color designs. It's been the industry standard for decades and works great for large bulk orders with simple designs.

What Is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing creates a transfer that gets heat-pressed onto your garment. Your design is printed onto a special film, coated with adhesive powder, cured, and then pressed onto the shirt. The result is a vibrant, full-color print with incredible detail.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Color Options

  • Screen Printing: Each color requires a separate screen. More colors = higher cost.
  • DTF: Unlimited colors at no extra cost. Gradients, photos, and complex designs print beautifully.
  • Winner: DTF

Minimum Orders

  • Screen Printing: Usually requires 12-24 piece minimums to offset setup costs.
  • DTF: No minimums. Order 1 shirt or 100.
  • Winner: DTF

Detail & Quality

  • Screen Printing: Great for bold, simple designs. Fine detail can be challenging.
  • DTF: Photographic quality. Fine lines, small text, and complex artwork come out crisp.
  • Winner: DTF

Durability

  • Screen Printing: Very durable when done right. Ink bonds directly with fabric.
  • DTF: Excellent durability. Survives 50+ washes without cracking or fading when properly applied.
  • Winner: Tie

Feel

  • Screen Printing: Can feel thick, especially with multiple colors.
  • DTF: Softer hand feel. Flexible and comfortable.
  • Winner: DTF

Cost for Small Orders

  • Screen Printing: Expensive for small quantities due to setup fees.
  • DTF: Cost-effective at any quantity. No setup fees.
  • Winner: DTF

Cost for Large Orders (100+)

  • Screen Printing: Price per piece drops significantly with volume.
  • DTF: Competitive, especially with gang sheets.
  • Winner: Depends on design complexity

When to Choose Screen Printing

  • Very large orders (500+) with simple 1-2 color designs
  • You need the absolute lowest per-piece cost at high volume

When to Choose DTF

  • Full-color designs, photos, or gradients
  • Small orders (1-50 pieces)
  • Detailed artwork with fine lines or small text
  • Quick turnaround needed
  • You want soft, comfortable prints

Our Recommendation

For most customers, DTF is the better choice. Unless you're ordering thousands of shirts with a simple one-color logo, DTF gives you better quality, more flexibility, and often better pricing.

At Mabuhay Designs, we specialize in DTF printing because we believe it delivers the best results for our customers. Check out our services or request a quote for your next project.

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