At Classic Tees we offer several custom shirt printing methods to fit different designs, budgets, and event needs. The three most popular techniques are screen printing, direct to garment (DTG), and heat transfer (including DTF). Each process creates a unique finish and has its own advantages, from bold long lasting color to soft photo quality prints to flexible full color transfers. This guide explains how each method works so you can choose the best option for your tees, fleece, or event apparel.
Screen Printing Tee Shirts
Screen printing is the most traditional method for custom apparel and it requires a custom screen to be made for each design, which is why the minimum order is 80 pieces. This process pushes ink through a mesh stencil, creating bold and vibrant colors that stand the test of time. The finish has a slightly raised feel and excellent durability, making it the best choice for large runs of event shirts, uniforms, and promotional gear. [more details]
DTG Tee Shirt Printing (Direct to Garment)
DTG printing works like a high-end fabric printer, spraying water-based inks directly into the fibers of the shirt. Because the ink soaks into the material, the finish feels soft to the touch with no noticeable texture on the surface. This method allows for full color, gradients, and detailed artwork, even photographs. DTG is best suited for smaller runs or one-of-a-kind designs and performs especially well on 100 percent cotton tees. [more details]
Heat Transfer and DTF Tee Shirt Printing
Heat transfer printing uses heat and pressure to bond your design onto the garment, and one of the most popular modern versions of this is Direct to Film (DTF). With DTF, your design is first printed onto a clear transfer film, coated with adhesive powder, and then pressed onto the shirt. The result is a smooth finish that sits on top of the fabric with a soft, flexible feel. Heat transfer is highly versatile and works well for names, numbers, small runs, or full-color graphics. Compared to screen printing or DTG, the finish has a slightly different texture, but it delivers excellent color and sharp detail on cotton, polyester, and blended fabrics. [more details]
Fleece Printing Options
Fleece apparel such as hoodies and sweatshirts can be printed using the same methods as tee shirts. Screen printing provides bold colors and long lasting durability, DTG creates soft photo quality designs on cotton fleece, and DTF heat transfer offers flexible full color graphics that apply well to both cotton and polyester blends. Choosing the right method depends on the look and feel you want, as well as the size of your order.
Ready to Print Your Design?
Classic Tees makes it simple to choose the best printing style for your project. Whether you need bold screen printed fleece hoodies, detailed DTG designs on cotton tees, or flexible DTF transfers for team apparel, we can help bring your idea to life.
Reach out to discuss your next event, business, or custom order.
Screen Printing | Direct to Garment (DTG) | Heat Transfer DTF