Opinion: DTF or Screen Printing? When do I use them?

I won't lie to you, I discovered DTF just over a year ago and, look, I've been in the screen printing world for 15 years now.  

Yes, I am a true fan of screen printing, but now DTF also has me hooked... and many doubts and questions come to mind.

• When do I use one or the other?

• Is it profitable to fully dive into DTF? 

• Should I change my screen printing workshop for a DTF heat press one? 

• Do we stay traditional or do we go for DTF? 

When I use DTF

For artists and brands, screen printing is my recommendation for its quality and vibrancy in colors. For schools, I offer a combination of screen printing and DTF for greater versatility, while for SMEs I suggest DTF, except if they need large quantities, at which point screen printing becomes more cost-effective.

DTF is excellent for small logos and multicolor designs, ideal for sporting events. However, for larger prints, screen printing is the most economical and effective option.

It is important to consider that, although DTF can be more tempting in some cases, digital colors can lose brightness with washes, while a well-done screen print retains its intensity.

I remember once with an artist who wanted a 4-color design and 40x45cm size; I presented samples in screen printing and DTF, and although I expected them to choose DTF, they opted for screen printing because of its incomparable color quality... I had to print 4 colors with lacquers in the middle of summer 😥

In conclusion, there is a market for everything, always using common sense and thinking about what is best for the end customer.

Remember that you can buy textile DTF and UV DTF by the meter on the website.

See you soon!