If you love custom shirts, you have probably noticed how some designs really shine with bright colours and sharp details, while others look a bit faded or dull. Right? But ever thought about the reason behind that? Well, the answer is very simple, it all depends on the printing method.
The way a design is printed onto a shirt makes all the difference in how it looks. A good printing method can make your design look beautiful, while a poor one can leave it looking flat or blurry. It’s not just about the colours, but it also affects how long the print will last and how comfortable the shirt feels, too. There are different ways to print on shirts, and each method has its own strengths. Let’s have a look at the most popular printing methods and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Popular Shirt Printing Methods: The Secret to Quality Designs
Shirt printing has improved over time, and there are now different methods to choose from, depending on your needs and how many shirts you want. Let’s have a look at the most common printing methods used in Singapore for t-shirt custom printing:
- Screen printing
- Heat press printing
- Embroidery
- Direct-to-film (DTF)
- Sublimation uniform printing
Each method has its unique advantages depending on the design, fabric, and order size. Let’s understand them one by one in simple terms.
Screen Printing: The Classic Choice for Bulk Orders
Screen printing is one of the oldest and most popular methods for printing on t-shirts. It involves creating a stencil or screen for each colour in the design, and then pressing ink through the screen onto the fabric.
Pros:
- Cost-effective for bulk orders: Screen printing is perfect for large quantities. The more shirts you print, the cheaper it becomes per unit.
- Durability: The ink used in screen printing will last a long time, even after multiple washes.
- Vibrant colours: This method produces bright, bold colours that shine.
Best for: Large orders like company uniforms, event merchandise, or promotional t-shirts.
Heat Press Printing: Quick, Flexible, and Detailed
Heat press printing is a method that uses a heat press machine to apply a design onto a shirt from transfer paper. The design is first printed onto the special paper and then pressed onto the shirt with high heat and pressure.
Pros:
- Quick turnarounds: Heat press printing is faster than screen printing and is ideal for smaller orders or urgent jobs.
- No minimum order: Yes, unlike screen printing, there is no minimum quantity requirement, so you can print just one shirt if needed.
- Works well with detailed designs: This method can handle detailed designs, multi-colour artwork, and even photographs.
Best for: Small orders, custom gifts, personal t-shirt designs, or businesses looking for fast and affordable printing without large quantities.
Embroidery: Threadwork with a Professional Finish
Yes, embroidery is still widely used, especially for uniforms and polo shirts. Instead of ink, designs are stitched directly into the fabric with thread.
Pros:
- Professional Appearance: Creates a stylish look with added texture.
- High Durability: Holds up well to frequent wear and washing.
Best for: Making uniforms for staff, or if you want a polished, corporate look.
Sublimation Printing: The Best for Vibrant, All-Over Designs
Sublimation printing is a digital printing process where ink is converted into a gas and absorbed directly into the fibres of the fabric. This creates vibrant, full-colour prints that are embedded within the material itself.
Pros:
- Vibrant colours and all-over prints: Sublimation allows for rich, full-colour designs, even covering the entire shirt, including the sleeves.
- Durable and long-lasting: Because the ink becomes part of the fabric, the print will not fade, peel, or crack over time.
Best for: Custom sports sublimation uniforms, all-over prints, promotional clothing, and vibrant, high-quality designs on polyester fabric.
Direct to Film (DTF) Printing: The Latest in Customisation
Direct-to-film, or DTF, is one of the newer methods. Designs are printed onto a special film and then transferred onto the shirt using heat. It works on different fabric types, including cotton, polyester, and blends.
Pros:
- Perfect for vibrant designs: Produces vibrant, detailed prints with excellent colour quality.
- Flexibility: Flexible option that works well for both small and large runs on many types of fabric.
Best for: If you need detailed artwork or colourful graphics that last, DTF is a smart choice.
How to Choose the Best Shirt Printing Method for Your Needs?
Now comes the main question, “How to Choose the Best?” Below are a few factors that one should pay attention to while choosing the printing method. Let’s have a look:
- Order Quantity: Choose your method as per your quantity. As some work best for large quantities and some work best for a few.
- Design Complexity: Simple designs are easier to print with basic methods, while complex, multi-colour designs require more advanced techniques. Choose wisely
- Fabric Type: Fabric type is also important when it comes to printing method. So before choosing a method, pay attention to your fabric and evaluate which suits your fabric best.
- Budget: Your budget plays a big role in choosing the right printing method, as some options are more affordable for small batches and others offer savings with bulk orders.
Conclusion
Choosing the right shirt printing method is important to make your design look its best. Whether you need just a few custom t-shirts or a large order, the method you pick will affect how the design looks, how long it lasts, and how it feels. At TJG Print, we provide high-quality prints that fit your needs, whether you are printing a small batch or a big order.
So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today, and let’s make your custom t-shirt shine with the best quality and precision.