Selecting the right printing method for your custom apparel can be a daunting task. Understanding what each technique does well is the key to getting your design printed at the highest quality.
Our approach at Colours International
To make the decision simple for our customers, we have a default:
All orders of 1 to 100 garments, or designs with more than 7 colours, are automatically produced with digital printing.
This approach gives you:
- High quality, vibrant prints
- Cost efficiency on smaller quantities
- Quick turnaround times
- Flexibility with detailed or full colour designs
If you have a specific preference or need a different printing method, we are happy to adjust our process to suit. Whether it is a special design or a larger order, we will work with you to find the right fit.
Screen printing
How it works
Screen printing is a time tested technique that involves creating a stencil, or screen, for each colour in the design. Ink is applied through each screen, one colour at a time, to build up the final design. Multiple layers of ink are used, especially on dark garments, to achieve vibrant and bold colours.
Key benefits
- Durability. Screen printed designs are incredibly durable, especially with plastisol inks, which resist fading, cracking and peeling.
- Cost effective for large runs. Screen printing becomes more economical as the order size increases, thanks to the one time setup cost for each colour.
- Vibrant, bold colours. Excellent for bold, simple designs with fewer colours, producing bright, striking print, especially on dark garments.
- Long lasting prints. The ink is thicker, giving a durable finish that stands up to multiple washes.
Things to consider
- Limited by colour complexity. Each colour in your design needs a separate screen, which makes it less ideal for designs with many colours or gradients.
- Setup time. Screen printing needs more time for setup, so it is less suited to smaller orders or quick turnaround projects.
Best for
- Large production runs of 100 garments or more
- Simple, bold designs
- Long lasting prints with vibrant colour on dark fabrics
DTF printing (direct to film)
How it works
DTF printing begins with creating your design on a special film. The design is printed in mirror image using high quality, vibrant inks. The printed film is then transferred onto the garment with a heat press, where the ink is cured and bonded to the fabric.
Key benefits
- Intricate, full colour designs. Ideal for complex designs with multiple colours, gradients and fine details.
- Versatility. It works on a wide range of fabrics, including cotton, polyester, blends, leather and nylon.
- Durability. DTF prints are long lasting, keeping their colour and detail even after numerous washes.
- Quick turnaround. Perfect for small to medium orders and on demand projects, as the process is relatively fast.
- Cost effective for small runs. With no setup fees, DTF is especially cost effective for orders of 1 to 100 garments.
Best for
- Detailed, multi colour designs
- Small to medium order quantities
- Quick, high quality production
- Varied fabric types
Still not sure?
Tell us the garment, the quantity and the artwork, and we will point you at the right method. You can read more about screen printing and DTF printing, or get a price.
