Ever wonder how different types of shirt printing are done? It is easy to transform a basic t-shirt into one that expresses your personality. You can alter the printing process to meet your demands for both personal and professional use.
The t-shirt printing industry has evolved significantly over the years, offering numerous techniques to create unique and durable designs. In this article, we will explore five popular types of printing on t-shirts.
The Various Types of T-Shirt Printing in the Industry
- Screen Printing
Screen printing, also known as silk screening, is a traditional method of printing designs onto t-shirts. This process involves creating a stencil (screen) with the design, applying ink to the screen, and pressing the ink onto the t-shirt.
Some benefits of this type of printing are it gives high-quality, vibrant prints and is also cost-effective for large quantities/bulk printing of t-shirts. The print also comes out as durable and long-lasting. Although it might be limited to simple designs only and requires a setup cost initially.
- Puff Printing
Puff printing, also known as foam printing, is a specialized technique that creates raised, three-dimensional designs. Through applying a special ink that expands when heated, creating a textured, puff-like effect.
It is beneficial when you want unique and eye-catching designs. It gives a soft and breathable finish and is ideal for logos and graphics. This type of printing might have limitation for colour options and involves higher cost as compared to screen printing.
- DTF (Direct to Film)
DTF printing involves printing designs directly onto a film, which is then applied to the t-shirt, transferring the film to the t-shirt using heat and pressure. It prints the designs using eco-solvent ink.
It has a fast turnaround time and is suitable for complex designs as it gives photorealistic finish in the prints. This also has higher costs involved as compared to other printing types and has limited durability.
- DTG (Direct to Garment)
DTG printing uses inkjet technology to print designs directly onto the t-shirt, using water-based ink. In this type of printing no additional transfer process is required.
It gives high quality and photorealistic prints and has fast turnaround time. It is suitable for small orders. Although, this type of printing is limited to 100% cotton fabric only and has a higher cost as it requires a special equipment.
- Embroidery
Embroidery involves using thread to stitch designs directly onto the t-shirt. It creates designs using computer-aided design (CAD) software and stitching the design onto the t-shirt using an embroidery machine
It is durable and long-lasting, and gives high-quality and premium finish to your t-shirts. Embroidery is suitable for logos and graphics. It also requires a special equipment and is limited to simple designs.
Conclusion
Each printing technique has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Understanding the different types of printing available can help businesses and individuals choose the best method for their t-shirt printing needs.
We, at GlamStitch are using screen printing, puff printing, embroidery and DTF methods of printing to bring out the best in quality t-shirts and designs for our customers.
By considering factors such as cost, quality, durability, and suitability, you can choose the perfect printing method for your t-shirt needs.
