How to Choose the Right Printing Method for Your Project
Choosing the right printing method for your products can make or break the success of your project. Whether you're printing custom t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags, or merchandise for your brand, it's crucial to select a method that aligns with your budget, goals, and quality expectations.
At DTFNow.co.uk, we specialise in Direct-to-Film (DTF) printing, but we also know the industry inside-out. In this guide, we’ll compare DTF with other popular methods like screen printing and DTG, and help you decide what’s best for your project.
DTF vs. Other Printing Methods: A Quick Comparison
| Printing Method | Best For | Fabric Compatibility | Setup Cost | Print Quality | Order Size Flexibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DTF (Direct-to-Film) | Versatile custom orders, fast turnaround | Most fabrics (cotton, poly, blends, nylon) | Low | High – vibrant and detailed | Excellent – ideal for small or large runs |
| Screen Printing | Bulk orders with simple designs | Mainly cotton and poly blends | High (screens required) | High – best for solid colours | Best for large orders (50+ units) |
| DTG (Direct-to-Garment) | Photorealistic prints on cotton garments | 100% cotton is best | Medium-High | Excellent on white/light fabrics | Ideal for small runs, slower for large jobs |
When Is DTF the Right Choice?
At DTFNow.co.uk, we recommend DTF printing for most modern applications. It’s particularly ideal when:
✅ You need full-colour, high-quality designs
✅ You want to print on various fabric types
✅ You require low minimum orders or on-demand printing
✅ You want fast production and shipping
Unlike screen printing, there are no costly screens or prep time, and compared to DTG, DTF allows for stronger, more flexible prints that don’t crack or fade — even on dark or synthetic fabrics.
How to Choose the Right Printing Method: Decision-Making Guide
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you determine the best method based on your project’s priorities:
1. Project Size
Small runs (1–100 items)? → Go DTF or DTG.
Large runs (100+ with simple designs)? → Consider screen printing.
2. Design Complexity
Full colour or photo-like designs? → DTF or DTG is best.
One or two solid colours? → Screen printing is most cost-effective in bulk.
3. Fabric Type
Cotton-only? → DTG or screen printing will work.
Blends, poly, or stretch fabrics? → DTF is the most versatile.
4. Budget
Tight budget or want to avoid high setup fees? → DTF wins — no screens or pre-treatment needed.
High volume with a simple logo? → Screen printing can be cost-efficient.
5. Durability
All methods produce durable prints, but DTF offers long-lasting results across more fabric types with less cracking and fading.
✅ Printing Needs Checklist for Businesses
Before you decide, run through this quick checklist:
✔️ Do I need full-colour or complex designs?
✔️ How many units do I need?
✔️ What type of garments or products am I printing on?
✔️ Do I need fast turnaround or on-demand fulfilment?
✔️ Is keeping costs low (with no high setup fees) important?
✔️ Do I want flexibility to scale or reorder easily?
If you answered yes to most of these — DTF is likely the best fit. And if you're unsure, we're happy to guide you through the decision process.
Need Help Choosing the Right Method? Talk to DTF Now
At DTFNow.co.uk, we’re more than a printing service — we’re your printing partner. Whether you’re launching a clothing brand, printing limited-edition merch, or need corporate uniforms, our team is here to help you make the right choice.
🎯 Expert advice
🎯 Fast UK-based turnaround
🎯 Flexible orders — no minimums
🎯 Pro results that stand out
Ready to get started?
📞 Contact us today or request a quote — and let’s print something amazing together.