Screen Printing vs. Direct to Garment Printing

In the promotional wear industry, choosing whether to use screen printing or direct to garment printing is one of the significant challenges facing businesses. These two printing techniques are used to create graphic t-shirts, sweatshirts, and jackets. Screen printing is the older of the two techniques, as direct to garment printing is still new to the industry. Each has pros and cons and it is best to see them broken down in lists in order to help you choose which printing method to use. 

Screen Printing Technology

Patented in the early 1900s, this has been the most commonly used method of decorating clothing for the past century. However, there are setup fees for this because screens need to be burned for each color within the design being printed. On top of the screen costs, there are more charges for the ink itself. There will be a cost for each color used and if your item is dark, it will require a white undercoat, which there is also a charge for. For this method of printing there is also a minimum order size to make it cost efficient for both parties. Although there are a lot of fees they are not very much and the larger the order is, the lower the price per piece becomes. Do you have a large order that doesn’t require a very detailed design? Screen printing is probably the choice for you.

Reasons to Consider Screen Printing

• High Quality
• Cheap Cost per Piece
• Long Lasting, Very Durable

Reasons Not to Use Screen Printing

• Many Fees (Setup, Ink, Undercoat)
• Minimum Order Sizes
• Must Order Large Amounts to Make it Cost Effective

Direct to Garment Printing Technology

This process is exactly the way it sounds – printing directly to a garment or another item such as a coffee cup or a mouse pad. This is relatively new technology and is the optimal choice to use for small orders. There are no setup fees with direct to garment printing like there are with screen printing. The image being used is loaded up to the computer, printed out on the garment, and then the entire design is cured in the heat press. Since this printing method works directly from a computer, the color palette is limitless. This allows for any colors or combinations you could possibly imagine ready to be included in your design. Photos and names can also be printed on garments using this type of printing. Screen printing does not allow for printing names because a screen would need to be created for each individual name. Although it does have many benefits, direct to garment printers do not utilize white ink, so the designs must be printed on light colored garments. Technology is advancing and it is possible to print on dark colored clothing now; however, not many shops utilize this machinery yet due to its still very expensive nature.

Reasons to Consider Direct to Garment Printing

• No Minimum Order Size
• Full Color Prints with Intricate Details
• Designs are Not Felt on the Garment (High Quality Ink)

Reasons Not to Use Direct to Garment Printing

• Most Shops Will Not be Able to Print on Dark Clothing
• Take Longer to Print than Screen Printing
• Ink is Slightly More Expensive than Those Used in Screen Printing

Which method is most cost effect truly depends on your order’s color and size. If you have many dark garments, you’ll need to go to a screen printing shop. If you have lighter garments that need to be personalized, then direct to garment printing is right for you. Remember that dark garments can be personalized at these shops too, however it will just take more searching and cost a little bit more. It really is a lot easier to choose what is best for your situation when you can see the pros and cons listed in a comprehensive manner.

Call Advanced Impressions Today!

If you're in need of either service, screen printing or direct to garment printing, Advanced Impressions is your trusted source in Colorado Springs and the Front Range. Give us a call today!

Advanced Impressions
4680 Edison Avenue, Suite J
Colorado Springs, CO 80915
(719) 637-2513

www.youhaveanimage.com