GRAPHIC PRINTING METHODS
There are many options when it comes to choosing the print method for the graphic design of your clothing brand, and it’s important to understand their differences in order to achieve the desired quality & result.
In this article we are going to break them down for a deeper understanding.
SCREEN PRINTING (Silk Screening)
Method : Ink is pushed through a mesh stencil onto fabric.
Pros :
Durable, vibrant, and long-lasting prints
Cost-effective for large orders
Works on a variety of materials (cotton, polyester, blends)
Cons :
High setup costs (not ideal for small batches)
Limited to simple designs with fewer colors
Labor-intensive for multi-color prints
This is our personal favourite method of printing, as it creates the most authentic & luxury looking vintage graphics.
DIRECT TO GARMENT (DTG) PRINTING
Method : Uses inkjet technology to print detailed designs directly onto fabric
Pros :
High detail and color accuracy (great for complex images)
Typically no setup fees, ideal for small runs or one-offs
Soft, breathable prints
Cons :
Slower process (not ideal for bulk orders)
Works best on 100% cotton fabrics
Less durable than screen printing (fades over time)
HEAT TRANSFER PRINTING
Method : Designs are printed on transfer paper, then heat-pressed onto fabric.
Pros :
Affordable for small quantities
Works well for complex, multi-color designs
Suitable for various fabrics
Cons :
Less durable (may crack or peel over time)
Can feel plasticky or stiff on the fabric
Not ideal for large-scale production
SUBLIMATION PRINTING
Method : Uses heat to transfer dye directly into polyester fabric.
Pros :
Vibrant, permanent prints that won’t crack or fade
Ideal for full-coverage designs (all-over prints)
Lightweight, breathable feel
Cons :
Only works on polyester or polyester-coated fabrics
Not suitable for dark garments (requires light backgrounds)
Higher initial equipment costs
VINYL PRINTING (Heat Transfer Vinyl - HTV)
Method : Designs are cut from colored vinyl sheets and heat-pressed onto fabric.
Pros :
Durable, with a smooth and clean finish
Ideal for simple graphics or text
Works on many fabric types
Cons :
Not suitable for detailed or multicolored designs
Can feel thick on the garment
Time-consuming for large orders
EMBROIDERY (Not Printed)
Method : Designs are stitched directly onto fabric using a machine.
Pros :
Extremely durable and professional-looking
Adds texture and dimension
Ideal for logos and monograms
Cons :
Limited to simple designs and smaller areas
Higher cost for intricate or large designs
Less comfortable on the skin
DYE SUBLIMATION PATCHES (Hybrid)
Method : A printed image is sublimated onto a patch, then sewn or heat-pressed onto fabric.
Pros :
Combines vivid prints with the durability of embroidery
Works for complex designs with fine details
Good on a variety of garments
Cons :
More expensive than standard printing
Limited to specific patch sizes and shapes
