GUIDE – USA
Screen printing, embroidery, DTG or DTF: choosing a decoration method.
Each method suits different garments, artwork and quantities. Here is how to choose.
Quick answer
Screen printing suits runs of 24 or more per design in solid colors. Embroidery suits logos on polos, caps, jackets and workwear for a premium, hard-wearing finish. DTG suits detailed full-color designs on cotton. DTF transfers suit full-color designs across more fabric types, including polyester and blends. We recommend the method that suits your garment, artwork and quantity.
Screen printing
Best for: 24+ pieces per design, logos and graphics in solid colors, bright prints on dark garments. Feel: soft with water-based ink, smooth and vivid with plastisol. How screen printing works.
Embroidery
Best for: polos, caps, jackets, hoodies, workwear and bags. Feel: raised, textured and premium. Keep in mind: very small text and fine detail need simplifying. Logo embroidery guide.
DTG (direct to garment)
Best for: detailed, full-color or photographic artwork on cotton. Feel: soft, with the ink in the fabric. Keep in mind: works best on cotton, and on dark garments needs a white base layer.
DTF (direct to film transfers)
Best for: full-color designs on cotton, polyester, blends and some accessories. Feel: a smooth printed layer on the fabric surface. DTG vs DTF explained.
Questions that decide the method
- What is the garment and fabric?
- How many pieces of each design do you need?
- How many colors are in the artwork, and is it photographic?
- Where will the decoration go, and how big?
- How will the garment be worn and washed?
Answer these in your quote request and we will recommend the method, then show it on a free mockup.
Questions
Can I combine decoration methods on one garment?
Yes. A common combination is an embroidered logo on the chest with a printed design on the back. Each decoration is shown on your mockup and quote.
Which decoration method lasts longest?
All of them are durable when done correctly and cared for. Embroidery is especially hard-wearing for workwear and uniforms, and screen printing holds up very well to regular washing.
Which method is best for small quantities?
For fewer than 24 pieces of a design, embroidery, DTG or DTF are usually better than screen printing. We confirm the minimums for each method in your quote.
Related guides
OCC APPAREL – USA
Work with us – get a free quote.
Please complete the form and give as much detail as you can. Attach one artwork file to give us an idea of your design; once we’re in touch we’ll send instructions for the rest.
We print and ship nationwide, quotes are free and no-obligation, and every order gets a professional mockup before production.