Best Types Of T-Shirt Printing Methods For Your Business
Jul 15, 2024
David Lin
As a budding t-shirt entrepreneur, you're probably feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of apparel decoration techniques out there. From HTV and DTF to DTG and screen printing, the options can seem endless, and the information you find online can often be contradictory. But fear not, my fellow print nerds – we’re here to guide you through the maze and help you determine the best printing method for your t-shirt brand.
You see, we’ve been in your shoes. Since 2017 we’ve been designing and visiting supply chains to find the best methods for Cheyyn. In this article we'll bring you all the details from our experience.
So, let's dive in and explore the most popular apparel decoration techniques, analyzing their cost-effectiveness, space requirements, and the level of risk involved.
Top Apparel Decoration Techniques
1. Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)
credit: impact-nw.com
The process of heat transfer vinyl, or HTV, is exactly as the name implies – thin sheets of vinyl that are adhered to a shirt using a heat-activated glue.
HTV can be as affordable as $1 per square foot and comes in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns, making it a great starting point for one- to two-color designs with minimal details.
Equipment Needed: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon), vinyl cutter (starting at $199), weeding tools (around $10)
Minimum Space Requirement: Half of a well-ventilated bedroom or smaller, with space for your vinyl cutter, heat press, and a small cutting/weeding table
Durability: Approximately 30-40 washes
Pros: Easy to design using Cricut or Silhouette software, very cost-effective for simple designs, and you can offer a wide range of color options
Cons: Time-consuming and labor-intensive, the finished product may feel slightly plasticky, and it can be challenging to find specific color matches
Risk Level: Very low
2. Screen Printed Transfers (Plastisol Transfers)
Another low-cost option for t-shirt decoration is screen printed transfers, also known as plastisol transfers. These pre-printed transfers can be purchased for as little as 15 cents per transfer, plus a one-time setup fee. This method is best suited for designs that you already know will sell well, as the fewer copies you order, the higher the per-unit cost.
Equipment Needed: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon)
Minimum Space Requirement: Similar to HTV, with space for your heat press and storage for the pre-printed transfers
Durability: If done correctly, the shirts will last at least 30-40 washes
Pros: Convenient, the transfers feel softer than HTV, and you can work with the Pantone color system for more accurate colors
Cons: Cost varies with print volume and number of colors, often involves a setup fee, and you may have a longer turnaround time
Risk Level: Low to medium, depending on the volume of transfers you purchase
3. Direct to Film (DTF) Transfers
DTF, or direct to film, transfers are full-color digital prints that are printed on PET film and then pressed onto your shirts. While you can invest in your own DTF printer, for the purposes of this article, we'll focus on just purchasing DTF transfers from a specialized company (as opposed to purchasing your own printer).
When it comes to DTF, we recommend finding a supplier that will help you sort out your graphics before printing, as the quality and customer service can vary greatly between different providers. Be sure to request samples from multiple companies to compare color accuracy, print quality, and the overall feel of the transfer on the shirt.
Equipment Needed: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon)
Minimum Space Requirement: Similar to HTV and plastisol transfers
Durability: If done correctly, the shirts will last at least 30-40 washes
Pros: Convenient, the transfers feel softer and more elastic than HTV, no setup fee, and faster turnaround times
Cons: Not as soft as screen printed transfers, the print quality and durability can vary between suppliers, and the cost may be higher than other options
Risk Level: Low, as you can print gang sheets with one copy of each design and reorder as needed
4. Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
DTG, or direct to garment printing, is a digital full-color printing process that uses CMYKW inks to print directly onto the shirt. This method is commonly used in print-on-demand business models, where you outsource all the production and shipping, allowing you to focus on selling and marketing.
Initial Cost: Under $50, you’re mostly using your time with minimal web hosting costs
Minimum Space Requirement: Just the space needed for your laptop and computer to manage orders and marketing
Cost per Shirt: Starting at around $15
Durability: At least 30-40 washes
Pros: Requires zero production work, can be softer than DTF, and can print full-color images and photos
Cons: Print quality and durability can vary, you can't check the quality unless you pick up the shirts yourself, and the cost per shirt can be high
Risk Level: Zero, just your time
5. Sublimation
Sublimation is a digital printing process that uses specialized sublimation inks to print directly onto white polyester materials. The dye is embedded into the fabric, ensuring that the design will never crack or fade. However, this method is best suited for 100% white polyester or athletic polyester uniforms, as the design may appear washed out on polyester blends.
Initial Cost: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon)
Minimum Space Requirement: Similar to HTV, DTF, and plastisol transfers, with additional ventilation due to the sublimation dye
Durability: The sublimated pigment dye is embedded into the polyester fibers, so the print will never fade
Pros: Permanent and durable prints that feel like a part of the shirt, full-color capabilities, and easier design creation due to the lack of semi-transparent pixels
Cons: Can only be used on white blanks, best for 100% polyester, and the print vibrancy decreases with a lower polyester count
Risk Level: Low
6. Screen Printing
Screen printing is often considered the OG of t-shirt decoration. This tried-and-true method produces a soft, durable print that can last longer than the shirt itself.
The upside is that you can outsource all the work to a professional screen printer, but the downside is that you usually have to order a minimum number of shirts per design, and the cost increases with each additional color and printing location.
Initial Cost: Wide range based on the screen printer, garment, and number of colors, sizes, and designs
Minimum Space Requirement: If outsourcing, you'll need space to store the pre-printed shirts; if printing in-house, you'll need more space to accommodate the various colors, sizes, and designs
Durability: If cured correctly, the print will last longer than the shirt
Pros: Requires less effort if outsourced, produces a high-quality, soft, and durable print, and is versatile (can do puff prints, glitter prints, etc.)
Cons: Average turnaround time of 2 weeks, cannot do one-offs, printers have minimum order quantities, and the print cost varies by design
Risk Level: High for beginners starting out and unsure of which designs will sell
Choosing the Best Printing Method for Your T-shirt Brand
Now that you've explored the various apparel decoration techniques, it's time to determine which one is the best fit for your t-shirt brand. As you weigh your options, consider your budget, the level of hands-on work you're willing to take on, the durability and quality you desire, and the overall risk you're comfortable with.
If you're just starting out and haven't sold a single shirt yet, I would not recommend screen printing, as it carries a high risk and requires a significant upfront investment. Instead, for beginners, we suggest exploring options like HTV, plastisol transfers, or DTF transfers, which offer a lower barrier to entry and allow you to test the waters without breaking the bank.
Once you've established a solid customer base and have a better understanding of which designs sell well, then you can consider transitioning to screen printing, which is the preferred method for many successful t-shirt brands. This will allow you to offer a higher-quality, more durable product that your customers will love.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to apparel decoration. The key is to choose the method that aligns best with your budget, business model, and long-term goals. By taking the time to explore your options and make an informed decision, you'll be well on your way to building a thriving t-shirt brand that stands out from the crowd.
So, what are you waiting for? Fire up those designs, and let's make t-shirts and turn your passion into a profitable venture!
As a budding t-shirt entrepreneur, you're probably feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of apparel decoration techniques out there. From HTV and DTF to DTG and screen printing, the options can seem endless, and the information you find online can often be contradictory. But fear not, my fellow print nerds – we’re here to guide you through the maze and help you determine the best printing method for your t-shirt brand.
You see, we’ve been in your shoes. Since 2017 we’ve been designing and visiting supply chains to find the best methods for Cheyyn. In this article we'll bring you all the details from our experience.
So, let's dive in and explore the most popular apparel decoration techniques, analyzing their cost-effectiveness, space requirements, and the level of risk involved.
Top Apparel Decoration Techniques
1. Heat Transfer Vinyl (HTV)
credit: impact-nw.com
The process of heat transfer vinyl, or HTV, is exactly as the name implies – thin sheets of vinyl that are adhered to a shirt using a heat-activated glue.
HTV can be as affordable as $1 per square foot and comes in a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns, making it a great starting point for one- to two-color designs with minimal details.
Equipment Needed: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon), vinyl cutter (starting at $199), weeding tools (around $10)
Minimum Space Requirement: Half of a well-ventilated bedroom or smaller, with space for your vinyl cutter, heat press, and a small cutting/weeding table
Durability: Approximately 30-40 washes
Pros: Easy to design using Cricut or Silhouette software, very cost-effective for simple designs, and you can offer a wide range of color options
Cons: Time-consuming and labor-intensive, the finished product may feel slightly plasticky, and it can be challenging to find specific color matches
Risk Level: Very low
2. Screen Printed Transfers (Plastisol Transfers)
Another low-cost option for t-shirt decoration is screen printed transfers, also known as plastisol transfers. These pre-printed transfers can be purchased for as little as 15 cents per transfer, plus a one-time setup fee. This method is best suited for designs that you already know will sell well, as the fewer copies you order, the higher the per-unit cost.
Equipment Needed: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon)
Minimum Space Requirement: Similar to HTV, with space for your heat press and storage for the pre-printed transfers
Durability: If done correctly, the shirts will last at least 30-40 washes
Pros: Convenient, the transfers feel softer than HTV, and you can work with the Pantone color system for more accurate colors
Cons: Cost varies with print volume and number of colors, often involves a setup fee, and you may have a longer turnaround time
Risk Level: Low to medium, depending on the volume of transfers you purchase
3. Direct to Film (DTF) Transfers
DTF, or direct to film, transfers are full-color digital prints that are printed on PET film and then pressed onto your shirts. While you can invest in your own DTF printer, for the purposes of this article, we'll focus on just purchasing DTF transfers from a specialized company (as opposed to purchasing your own printer).
When it comes to DTF, we recommend finding a supplier that will help you sort out your graphics before printing, as the quality and customer service can vary greatly between different providers. Be sure to request samples from multiple companies to compare color accuracy, print quality, and the overall feel of the transfer on the shirt.
Equipment Needed: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon)
Minimum Space Requirement: Similar to HTV and plastisol transfers
Durability: If done correctly, the shirts will last at least 30-40 washes
Pros: Convenient, the transfers feel softer and more elastic than HTV, no setup fee, and faster turnaround times
Cons: Not as soft as screen printed transfers, the print quality and durability can vary between suppliers, and the cost may be higher than other options
Risk Level: Low, as you can print gang sheets with one copy of each design and reorder as needed
4. Direct to Garment (DTG) Printing
DTG, or direct to garment printing, is a digital full-color printing process that uses CMYKW inks to print directly onto the shirt. This method is commonly used in print-on-demand business models, where you outsource all the production and shipping, allowing you to focus on selling and marketing.
Initial Cost: Under $50, you’re mostly using your time with minimal web hosting costs
Minimum Space Requirement: Just the space needed for your laptop and computer to manage orders and marketing
Cost per Shirt: Starting at around $15
Durability: At least 30-40 washes
Pros: Requires zero production work, can be softer than DTF, and can print full-color images and photos
Cons: Print quality and durability can vary, you can't check the quality unless you pick up the shirts yourself, and the cost per shirt can be high
Risk Level: Zero, just your time
5. Sublimation
Sublimation is a digital printing process that uses specialized sublimation inks to print directly onto white polyester materials. The dye is embedded into the fabric, ensuring that the design will never crack or fade. However, this method is best suited for 100% white polyester or athletic polyester uniforms, as the design may appear washed out on polyester blends.
Initial Cost: Heat press (as low as $199 on Amazon)
Minimum Space Requirement: Similar to HTV, DTF, and plastisol transfers, with additional ventilation due to the sublimation dye
Durability: The sublimated pigment dye is embedded into the polyester fibers, so the print will never fade
Pros: Permanent and durable prints that feel like a part of the shirt, full-color capabilities, and easier design creation due to the lack of semi-transparent pixels
Cons: Can only be used on white blanks, best for 100% polyester, and the print vibrancy decreases with a lower polyester count
Risk Level: Low
6. Screen Printing
Screen printing is often considered the OG of t-shirt decoration. This tried-and-true method produces a soft, durable print that can last longer than the shirt itself.
The upside is that you can outsource all the work to a professional screen printer, but the downside is that you usually have to order a minimum number of shirts per design, and the cost increases with each additional color and printing location.
Initial Cost: Wide range based on the screen printer, garment, and number of colors, sizes, and designs
Minimum Space Requirement: If outsourcing, you'll need space to store the pre-printed shirts; if printing in-house, you'll need more space to accommodate the various colors, sizes, and designs
Durability: If cured correctly, the print will last longer than the shirt
Pros: Requires less effort if outsourced, produces a high-quality, soft, and durable print, and is versatile (can do puff prints, glitter prints, etc.)
Cons: Average turnaround time of 2 weeks, cannot do one-offs, printers have minimum order quantities, and the print cost varies by design
Risk Level: High for beginners starting out and unsure of which designs will sell
Choosing the Best Printing Method for Your T-shirt Brand
Now that you've explored the various apparel decoration techniques, it's time to determine which one is the best fit for your t-shirt brand. As you weigh your options, consider your budget, the level of hands-on work you're willing to take on, the durability and quality you desire, and the overall risk you're comfortable with.
If you're just starting out and haven't sold a single shirt yet, I would not recommend screen printing, as it carries a high risk and requires a significant upfront investment. Instead, for beginners, we suggest exploring options like HTV, plastisol transfers, or DTF transfers, which offer a lower barrier to entry and allow you to test the waters without breaking the bank.
Once you've established a solid customer base and have a better understanding of which designs sell well, then you can consider transitioning to screen printing, which is the preferred method for many successful t-shirt brands. This will allow you to offer a higher-quality, more durable product that your customers will love.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to apparel decoration. The key is to choose the method that aligns best with your budget, business model, and long-term goals. By taking the time to explore your options and make an informed decision, you'll be well on your way to building a thriving t-shirt brand that stands out from the crowd.
So, what are you waiting for? Fire up those designs, and let's make t-shirts and turn your passion into a profitable venture!