Which Printing Method Is Best for Custom T Shirts

Choosing a printing method for your custom apparel can be a daunting prospect. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and each order should be viewed individually, taking into account the customer's budget, garment requirements, order quantity and artwork.

Don't worry, we keep it simple and if you don't specify a printing method, SANYI's expert team will select the best process for your design and garment selection to ensure the best results. We offer a clothing customization service, tell us your requirements and we will provide you with the perfect solution.

If you do want to understand the differences between each of the available printing methods, please read on.

Children's pink T-shirt

Vinyl Printing

Vinyl printing, also known as CAD cut printing, is similar to digital transfer printing. This method is best suited for products that need to be personalized by number, name, or job role, such as sports team uniforms, construction worker uniforms, or college clubs. These prints are very durable and can be applied to synthetic materials such as high strength workwear, helmets and nylon.

Vinyl transfer is right for you if the following conditions are met.

You have a simple design with only 1 or 2 colors

You need individual personalization

You have a small order size

Screen Printing

Screen printing is the most widely known and commonly requested printing method. Screen printing uses thick inks that produce long-lasting, realistic, vibrant colors, which is a great option if you want to match your design to your brand's colors. There are several different types of inks that can be used and they are a good choice for sustainable t-shirt printing.

Screen printing is right for you if the following conditions are met.

You need more than 50 units of the same design

You have a simple design with few colors

You need pantone matched colors

Baby cartoon colorful T-shirt

Digital Transfer Printing

Digital transfer printing combines the bold colors of screen printing with the ability to print on virtually any material. Screen printing and DTG produce high quality prints, but they work best on a high percentage of cotton garments. This is perfect if you need to personalize your sportswear or school leavers products.

Digital transfer printing is right for you if the following conditions are met.

You have a small order size

You need personalization

You are printing on materials other than cotton

Your design is simple or complex

Embroidery

Embroidery provides a high quality and professional look to any garment, whether it is for a small logo or for a large "signature design". It is often the most durable method of decoration, but compared to printing, embroidery can be a little more expensive and most cost effective on larger orders.

Embroidery is right for you if.

You have a larger order quantity

You need a durable and professional design

You have a simple design with few colors

Baby yellow cartoon T-shirt

DTG Printing

Direct To Garment T-shirt printing is a little-known printing method because it is relatively new compared to screen printing or embroidery. Inkjet technology is used to print high quality photo prints on garments and is the best choice for complex designs with infinite colors.

DTG is right for you if the following conditions are met.

You need less than 50 units of the same design

There is a complex design with many colors

You like the texture of screen printing or transfer printing

You need photo prints

What is the best way

Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all method when it comes to print or embroidery designs. The intricacies of the rules require that all orders must be handled on a case-by-case basis in order to find the right printing method.

If you would like to discuss the best printing method for your logo or design, please send us your requirements and SANYI's team of experts will be able to help you choose the best printing method for your order. Or, if you would like to order less than 25 items, you can purchase our custom t-shirts online.

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Feel free to ask us!