Screen printing is a popular apparel customization method, but not the only one. Digital printing, also known as DTG, has gained in popularity over the last couple of decades, but it still remains a relatively newcomer to the apparel industry compared to traditional screen printing. It is important to understand the differences between the two print methods, as this will help you make a decision that best meets your needs and fits within your budget.

Screen Printing

Screen printing is a popular and trusted apparel print method that has been around for centuries. It’s a classic method that works well for a wide range of designs, including logos, slogans, and other graphics. It is especially useful for multicolor designs, as it allows each color to be printed on a different screen. It is a time-consuming process that requires the creation of stencils and mesh screens before the actual printing can take place. This makes it less efficient for small-scale t-shirt runs, which is why it is typically reserved for larger print runs.

A major disadvantage of screen printing is that the prints can be prone to cracking or scratching, depending on the fabric used and how it’s handled. Additionally, the inks used in screen printing can bleed or fade, especially if exposed to sunlight or heat. This means that the lifespan of a screen-printed design can be limited, and it’s a good idea to consider a different garment printing technique for a more durable product. For more details on screen printing visit your local screen printing company in Minneapolis.

DTG Printing

With advances in technology, DTG has become more efficient and is now the preferred apparel print method for many consumers and businesses. This print-on-demand approach allows for a higher level of customization, which can be particularly helpful for brands that are targeting niche markets and want to offer unique and customized products. In addition, the DTG method is more environmentally friendly than screen printing, as shirts don’t need to be made in bulk and can be produced one at a time as they are ordered, which significantly reduces waste production.

While DTG has a number of advantages, it does not produce the same quality results as screen printing. Unlike screen printing, which uses a high-density pigment that gives the prints their vibrant and saturated colors, DTG printing utilizes water-based inks, which can result in duller and less vivid images, particularly on dark garments. Additionally, the DTG process uses CMYK color models, which are limited to cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks, so colors may not appear as bright or as vibrant on the final product.

Another downside to DTG is that the garments must be pre-treated before printing, which can add to the cost of the overall project. In addition, a significant amount of ink is required for DTG printing, which can leave the shirt feeling weighed down and stiff due to the heavy layer of ink on top of the fabric. However, there are some inks that can be used with DTG, such as discharge and water-based inks, which can improve the print quality by reducing the weight of the ink without sacrificing durability. To learn more about printing and its application visit your local Minneapolis printing company.