Direct to garment (DTG) printing and screen printing are both popular methods of printing designs onto clothing and other fabrics, but they have some key differences. If you are using print on demand services like Printful or Printify for apparel then odds are they are using Direct to Garment printing. Learn more about Print on Demand here.
Screen printing is a traditional method that is great for creating large quantities of shirts with a single design, but it can be time-consuming and costly to set up. Direct to garment printing is a digital printing method that is faster, more efficient and cost-effective for small runs or detailed designs.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is a traditional printing method that involves creating a stencil (or “screen”) of the design, and then using ink and a squeegee to press the ink through the stencil and onto the fabric. This method is great for creating large quantities of shirts with a single design, as the screens can be used multiple times. However, it can be time-consuming and costly to set up the screens, and the process is not well-suited for small runs or detailed designs.
Direct To Garment (DTG)
Direct to garment printing uses specialized digital printing equipment to print the design directly onto the fabric. This method is much faster and more efficient than screen printing, and it allows for a wide range of colors and detailed designs. DTG printing also eliminates the need for any setup costs or screens, making it a more cost-effective option for small runs or one-off designs.
Another major difference between screen printing and DTG printing is the type of fabrics that can be used. Screen printing is limited to natural fibers such as cotton, while DTG printing can be used on a variety of fabrics including cotton, polyester and even some blended fabrics.
