The best decoration method for custom T-shirts depends on your design, garment, quantity and budget. Here is a plain-English comparison of the most common options.
Screen printing
Ink is pushed through a fine mesh screen, with one screen per colour.
- Best for: larger quantities and designs with a limited number of solid colours.
- Strengths: very durable, vibrant and cost-effective at volume.
- Limitations: setup costs make small runs expensive, and photographic detail is harder.
DTF (direct-to-film) transfers
The design is printed onto a film with adhesive powder, then heat-pressed onto the garment.
- Best for: full-colour, detailed designs and small to medium quantities.
- Strengths: works on many fabric types and colours, with no per-colour setup.
- Limitations: has a slight feel on the fabric, and durability depends on correct application and care.
Direct-to-garment (DTG)
Ink is printed directly into the fabric using specialised printers.
- Best for: detailed designs on cotton garments in small quantities.
- Strengths: soft feel and photographic detail.
- Limitations: works best on high-cotton fabrics, and per-unit costs remain higher at volume.
Vinyl (heat transfer vinyl)
Shapes are cut from coloured vinyl and heat-pressed.
- Best for: names, numbers and simple one or two-colour designs.
- Strengths: sharp edges and good for personalisation.
- Limitations: not suitable for complex artwork.
Embroidery
Thread is stitched directly into the garment.
- Best for: polos, caps, jackets and corporate uniforms.
- Strengths: premium, durable and professional.
- Limitations: fine details and small text are limited, and it is less suitable for large designs on lightweight T-shirts.
Choosing the right method
- Event tees for 300 people with a two-colour logo: screen printing.
- 20 staff shirts with a detailed full-colour logo: DTF.
- Corporate polos: embroidery.
- Sports team names and numbers: vinyl, often combined with screen printing.
Artwork tips
Supply vector artwork (AI, EPS, SVG or PDF) where possible. For raster images, provide high resolution at the final print size. Check colours against the garment colour, because the same ink looks different on black and white fabric.
Ready to order? See our custom T-shirt printing service or enquire about custom T-shirts.
