DTF Printing
DTF, also known as direct-to-film printing, is a merchandise printing method that applies ink to a film which is them transferred to the product. The ink is placed on a thin film, powdered glue is added, and the design is applied to the item with a special heated printing machine.
When to Use DTF as a Decoration Method
DTF is especially wonderful for highly detailed and multi-colored logo designs. Perfect for uniforms and jerseys, as they are worn frequently and go through a lot of wear and tear. This decoration option is extremely dependable wash after wash.
DTF is Ideal for…
Benefits of DTF as a Decoration Method
- Quick application time, a turnaround of one week to 10 days for your merch order is no problem!
- Color matches available - DTF allows you to perfectly color-match your design.
- Endless decoration possibilities allows for very small print and detailed artwork.
- No color restrictions or added fees, which makes this method well suited for complex logos.
Drawbacks of DTF as a Decoration Method
- DTF printers are expensive and must be completed in a temperature-controlled room.
- DTF printing uses CMYK ink, so colors can be slightly different from your logo. This form of printing is not particularly suitable for neon colors.
By far our most popular decoration style! The logo on your screen first needs to be "digitized"; mapped out for an embroidery machine based on the intricacies of a logo & its colors. From there, the appropriate thread colors are chosen, a sample stitch out is run, and once approved, your order is put on embroidery machines that read the final digitized file and embroider your logo to its exact specifications.
When to Use Embroidery as a Decoration Method
Embroidered logos typically look best on polos, jackets, woven shirts, caps, and bags, but this is a truly versatile style of decoration. We've embroidered just about every style of apparel & accessory on our site!
Embroidery is Ideal for…
Benefits of Embroidery as a Decoration Method
- There is an added texture to the design.
- The product does not need to be laid flat like in printing, making embroidery suitable for hats and bags.
- The intricate design evokes a high perceived value and sense of professionalism.
- More durable and resistant to damage from washing than most decoration methods.
Drawbacks of Embroidery as a Decoration Method
- The number of colors used in the design is limited to the thread color options and prices typically increase with additional colors.
- Embroidery is only a suitable decoration method for fabric.
- Embroidery machines can struggle with small lettering or fine details in the design.
- Embroidery is best for thicker materials, and not suitable for very thin items.
- Embroidered logo decoration includes a white fabric backing which can sometimes be visible through white garments. Some people also find this backing uncomfortable to wear.
An easy way to think about this is as a photographic stencil process. A stencil is created and then is used to apply layers of ink directly onto a product. The result is the screen's image transferred to the print surface. The versatility of this decoration method allows it to be used on a wide variety of items.
When to Use Screen Printing as a Decoration Method
Screen printing, also known as silk screen printing, is the most cost-effective method for large-quantity print runs (around 50+ items) and works especially well with items like t-shirts and tanks. A complex design with many different colors requires different stencils for each color, so this decoration method is best for logos with 4 colors or less.
Screen Printing is Ideal for…
Benefits of Screen Printing as a Decoration Method
- Just about any design and ink color can be applied to any product through screen printing.
- Ink is applied thicker than digital printing, making your design more vibrant and easier to see on darker fabrics or surfaces.
- Your exact PMS colors can be used in the design, which is great for those with strict brand guidelines!
Drawbacks of Screen Printing as a Decoration Method
- The necessity to create screens means screen printing is not ideal for smaller order sizes or individually personalized items.
Screen printing requires a hard minimum order of 12 units per style and color (for example: six men's white T-shits and six women's white T-shirts in the same style).
