DTG vs. Screen Printing: Comparing Custom T-Shirt Options
Choose between digital garment printing and screen printing without relying on a made-up universal quantity cutoff.
By Embroidery Finder
DTG uses a digital printer to apply ink directly to clothing. Screen printing applies ink through prepared screens. DTG can be useful for varied, detailed artwork and smaller runs; screen printing can suit repeated designs and larger production batches. The practical crossover depends on the job, so there is no universal quantity at which one becomes cheaper.
How does setup differ?
Screen printing generally involves preparing screens and a production setup for the artwork and print locations. DTG uses a digital production workflow, but the shop still needs to prepare artwork, load garments, manage any pretreatment, print, and cure the result.
Digital does not mean “no preparation.” Brother's DTG guidance describes how print size, colors, white ink, and consumables affect a particular printer's costs. Those factors help explain why two digital prints may not have the same production price.
What artwork suits each method?
Photographs, gradients, and many-color illustrations can be practical digital-printing candidates. Screen printing can reproduce detailed artwork too, but the shop may need separations or a particular technique.
For a simple repeated logo, ask about screen printing as well as digital alternatives. For several different images in one order, ask how each method handles design changes rather than assuming the entire quantity qualifies as one identical run.
Does the shirt matter?
Yes. Epson's digital-textile primer describes cotton and predominantly cotton blends as common DTG materials, with other applications depending on the system and pretreatment. A decorator should identify the exact garment it has assessed.
Screen-printing results also depend on fabric, ink selection, and curing. Ask whether the sample uses the same shirt style and color you intend to buy.
How should you compare prices?
Request equivalent quotes covering:
- The same garment specification and size mix.
- The same finished image size and print locations.
- Artwork preparation and setup.
- Any personalization or changes between pieces.
- Approval samples and delivery.
Ask the shop to quote two realistic quantities if you are still deciding. Compare total spending and expected use, not just the lowest unit price.
What should a proof establish?
A proof should confirm the artwork version, dimensions, location, and garment color. A physical sample helps assess feel, coverage, fine detail, and contrast. Ask what variation the business expects between the approved sample and production.
For repeat orders, keep the method and garment specification with your approved file. Changing either can change the result.
Is DTG only for white cotton shirts?
No. Equipment and ink systems can support other applications, but suitability is specific to the process and garment. Ask the provider to explain its tested combination rather than relying on an absolute rule.
Find printing businesses and send them the same quote brief for a useful comparison.