Technologies · DRUKiO

Print technologies: DTF and screen printing

Print quality and price depend on the chosen technique. DRUKiO offers two professional methods for apparel printing — DTF transfer printing and screen printing. Each has its advantages depending on the design’s colorfulness and the order volume.

What is DTF printing (Direct-to-Film)?

DTF, or Direct-to-Film, is a modern digital printing technology. The design is first printed with a special printer onto a transparent film using CMYK colors and white ink, then a thermo-adhesive powder is applied and heated. The resulting transfer is applied to the fabric with a heat press (heat and pressure).

DTF printing is ideal when:

• the design is colorful, with gradients, photos or many colors;
• a small quantity is needed — even 1 item;
• printing on various materials — cotton, polyester, blends;
• detail and sharp edges matter.

DTF printing is flexible, withstands washing well, and the colors stay vivid. It is our default choice for custom designs and small orders.

What is screen printing (silk-screen)?

Screen printing is a classic and very durable printing method. A separate screen (stencil) is made for each design color, and ink is pushed through the screen onto the fabric with a squeegee. The ink soaks into the fibers and forms a durable, saturated print.

At DRUKiO, screen printing is single-color (1 color) only. Screen printing is most often chosen for events — teams, sports clubs, festivals and corporate events —, where one color is enough and a cost-effective large run and durability matter.

Screen printing is cost-effective when:

• the order is a larger run (minimum — 5 pieces);
• the design is single-color (our screen printing — 1 color);
• maximum resistance to washing and wear is needed;
• an especially bright, dense color is desired.

Because the screen must be prepared separately, screen printing becomes cost-effective in larger volumes — the more pieces, the lower the price per item.

Production time: screen printing (and mixed printing) takes 4–7 days + delivery, unlike DTF, where the total time is 2–5 days.

Need both a colorful image and a durable single-color print? You can combine screen printing and DTF on one item — e.g. screen printing on the front and DTF on the back.

DTF or screen printing — which to choose?

In short: if you need one or a few colorful shirts — choose DTF. If you’re making a large single-color order for a team or event — screen printing will be more cost-effective.

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