Which printing method to choose?
Printing on clothing is a great way to express yourself or promote a company. The choice of the right method depends on many factors, such as the planned volume, durability, fabric type, and color scheme of the pattern. Below, we present the most popular printing techniques to help you make the right decision.
Screens printing
This technique involves applying plastisol, water-based, discharge, or effect inks through a screen onto clothing. It is characterized by high durability and an eco-friendly approach.
Advantages:
Durable print resistant to washing
Vivid colors, possibility of using Pantone palette
Cost-effective for large orders
Disadvantages:
Limited number of available colors
Complex printing process
Higher costs for small orders
DTF Printing – modern printing technology
Images are transferred from a computer directly to a printer, then the print on film is heated onto the material. This method is fast and allows for printing multicolored patterns.
Advantages:
Ability to print multicolored images
Customization of prints
Prints possible from a single piece
Disadvantages:
Feelability of the print
Lack of transparency effects
High costs for large orders and surface areas
Flex and flock foil
Techniques involving cutting patterns from plastic foil using a plotter, which are then pressed onto clothing. Flex is smooth, while flock has a velvety texture. Both methods provide vibrant colors and resistance to fading.
Advantages:
Vivid, washable colors
Resistance to stretching
Quick implementation
Disadvantages:
Limited color palette
No multicolor logo possibilities
High costs for large orders
Screen transfer (indirect screen printing)
This method involves screen printing on a transfer foil, which is then coated with adhesive and pressed onto clothing. It allows detailed prints and the use of vibrant Pantone colors.
Advantages:
Vivid Pantone colors
Ability to print on hard-to-reach areas, e.g., pockets
Precise small details
Disadvantages:
High initial cost
No multicolor printing
Lower durability than traditional screen printing
Sublimation
A process in which dyes transition directly from a gaseous state into the structure of the material under high temperature. Sublimation prints are made on light-colored, polyester fabrics.
Advantages:
Very durable prints
No detectable layer of paint
Ability to achieve smooth tonal transitions and a rich color range
Disadvantages:
Only used on light polyester materials
Not suitable for dark fabrics
Some materials may deform under high temperature
DTG digital printing
A method involving direct ink application to clothing using special printers. It allows reproducing detailed, multicolored designs.
Advantages:
Ideal for small quantities
Soft, comfortable prints
Clear details and tonal transitions
Disadvantages:
Low durability of the print
Not recommended on polyester fabrics
High costs for large orders
Summary
The choice of printing method depends on the type of clothing and the requirements concerning quality and costs:
Large quantities, simple patterns up to 10 colors – screen printing
Small quantities, multicolored designs – DTF
White sportswear (polyester) – sublimation
Personalized pieces – flex foil, DTF
