Choosing Between Screen Printing & DTG Printing

In the dynamic world of custom apparel, the choice between screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the quality and longevity of the final product. For print shops that exclusively offer screen printing services, it’s essential to educate customers about the advantages and disadvantages of both methods. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects of screen printing and DTG printing and make a compelling case for the merits of screen printing.

Screen Printing: The Time-Tested Champion

Screen printing has long been the go-to method for producing vibrant and durable designs on a variety of fabrics. Here are some key advantages that make screen printing stand out:

1. Durability:
   • Screen printing is renowned for its durability, making it an ideal choice for designs that need to withstand regular wear and tear. The ink used in screen printing is thicker and more robust, ensuring a longer lifespan for the printed design.
2. Color Vibrancy:
   • The color saturation achieved through screen printing is unparalleled. The process allows for the use of a wider range of inks, resulting in vibrant and eye-catching designs that truly pop on the garment.
3. Cost-Effectiveness in Bulk Orders:
   • Screen printing becomes more cost-effective as the order quantity increases. This makes it an excellent choice for bulk orders, where the per-unit cost decreases, providing an economical solution for large-scale productions.
4. Versatility in Materials:
   • Screen printing can be applied to various materials, including cotton, polyester, and blends. This versatility ensures that the method can be utilized for a wide range of garments, expanding the potential customer base.

DTG Printing: The Newcomer with Considerations

While DTG printing has gained popularity for its ability to produce intricate designs and offer a quick turnaround, it comes with its own set of considerations:

1. Detail and Complexity:
   • DTG printing excels in capturing intricate details and complex designs with a high level of accuracy. For designs with fine lines, gradients, and small text, DTG printing might be the preferred choice.
2. Small Batch Production:
   • DTG printing is more cost-effective for smaller quantities. This makes it suitable for print shops catering to customers looking for limited edition or one-off prints, where the cost per unit may be higher with screen printing.
3. Water-Based Inks:
   • DTG printing often utilizes water-based inks, which are more environmentally friendly than some of the solvents used in screen printing. This can be an appealing factor for environmentally conscious customers.

While DTG printing has its merits, screen printing remains the superior choice for many clothing brands and businesses. Its durability, cost-effectiveness and versatility in materials make it a reliable and efficient method for creating high-quality custom apparel.

When it comes to choosing between screen printing and DTG printing, understanding the specific needs of your project is crucial. While DTG printing may be suitable for certain applications, the time-tested advantages of screen printing make it the preferred choice for many print shops. By offering our customers our expert screen printing services, we ensure they receive a product that not only meets but exceeds their expectations in terms of durability, vibrancy, and overall quality. Let’s get to work!

 

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“I have ordered custom shirts for our high school band twice and both times I had outstanding service. Their quality and price are better than other printers we have used in the past, and the orders were completed in less than two weeks. Charm City Screen Print is at the top of my recommended vendors list.”

-Dawn Chapman

 

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