Comprehensive Guide to T-Shirt Printing: Screen Printing, DTG, DTF and More

If you’re in Perth and want to create some eye-catching custom apparel, choosing the right printing method is key to ensuring your designs stand the test of time. At The Fabric Printer, we specialise in t-shirt printing in Perth, offering everything from traditional screen printing to advanced techniques such as Direct-to-Garment (DTG) and Direct-to-Film (DTF).

To help you find the perfect technique for your custom t-shirt printing needs, we thought we would explore some of our most popular options.

Screen printing services are incredibly popular and help to create long-lasting designs that stand out from the crowd. This technique involves creating a stencil (or ‘screen’) and then using it to apply layers of ink onto the fabric. Each colour in the design requires a separate screen, which can be a time-consuming process, but the result is a vibrant t-shirt that stands up well to washing and wear.

• Strengths - Highly versatile & cost-effective at scale
• Weaknesses - Minimum order size of 20
• Production time - 2-4 weeks

Screen printing is a versatile option for t-shirt printing in Perth, but there are two uses in particular where the technique shines:

1. Bulk Orders

Screen printing is particularly well-suited for large orders, such as uniforms, event merchandise and promotional apparel. The cost-effective technique ensures high-quality prints at an affordable price. 

2. Simple Designs

Screen printing also works best when the design is simple and straightforward. Clean lines and solid, bold colours are ideal. 

DTG printing in Perth is another very popular solution. This modern technique utilises inkjet technology to print designs directly onto the fabric without the need for separate screens for each colour. DTG t-shirt printing can be done in a single pass, making it ideal for complex or multi-coloured artwork. 

• Strengths - Short production time, excels at high-detail designs
• Weaknesses - Can’t match to spot colour, slightly reduced durability
• Production time - 1-7 days

Just like screen printing, direct-to-garment printing offers a range of benefits, but it is most effective for: 

1. Full-colour Designs

If your design features a wide range of colours or detailed graphics, then DTG printing is the way to go. It’s the ideal solution for producing high-quality prints, photographs and illustrations. 

2. Small Quantity Orders

For customers who are only in need of a few custom t-shirts, then DTG printing offers great value as you will not have to worry about high setup costs. 

Direct-to-Film printing  (DTF) is an innovative technique that transfers prints onto fabric using a special film. The design is printed onto a transfer film which is then applied to a garment using heat. This makes it a versatile method of t-shirt printing and can be used on a variety of fabric types, including cotton, some polyester and most blends. 

• Strengths - Works on a wider variety of materials, highly durable, fast turnaround
• Weaknesses - Slightly less breathable, produces a mid-sheen, slightly less detail than DTG
• Production time - 1-7 days

As with the other techniques, DTF printing is particularly suited to a number of applications:

1. Bold Colours

DTF printing produces vibrant colours which are effective for visually striking designs.

2. High Detail

DTF printing is ideal for those projects that require a lot of detail and precision. If your artwork has fine lines, gradients or small text, DTF printing will ensure these elements are clearly visible. 

3. Versatile

DTF printing’s ability to work on various fabrics makes it a great choice if you’re looking to print on materials other than cotton. 

If you are looking for a highly professional finish or premium custom apparel, thenembroidery is the perfect choice. This method adds texture and dimension to the design, creating a high-quality look and feel. The technique is often used for logos, monograms and other designs when a professional appearance is paramount. 

• Strengths - Professional appearance, very durable
• Weaknesses - 15 colour limit does not allow for gradients, limited to a relatively small area
• Production time - 2-4 weeks

Embroidery is the ideal choice in a range of scenarios including: 

1. Corporate Uniforms & Apparel

Embroidery is the go-to option for corporate apparel like uniforms, polo shirts and hats. The professional finish it offers helps enhance your brand’s image and ensures your logo can stand out. 

2. Durability

It is also the perfect choice when you need long-lasting and durable designs. The method is able to withstand heavy use and washing, ensuring it continues to look great over time.

Sublimation printing uses a heat press to convert an ink design to gas, which becomes permanently imprinted on your chosen garment or accessory.

• Strengths - Sharp, vibrant results with no size limits, full garment printing
• Weaknesses - Long turnaround, polyester fabrics only
• Production time - 5-7 weeks

Effective use cases for sublimation printing include: 

1. Merchandise

Sublimation ink can be applied to more than just garments. Its vibrant results work well for accessories and merchandise such as bags, hats and stubby coolers.

2. Activewear & Sportswear 

Sublimation-printed designs are highly durable and are resistant to cracking or peeling. This makes them a good fit when the wearer will constantly be moving around, such as gym wear and sportswear.

Choosing the right t-shirt printing method is crucial to achieving the results you desire. Whether it’s screen, DTG or DTF printing, or premium embroidery, our team here at The Fabric Printer is on hand to help you create the very best garments possible.

Want to find out more? Get in touch today and our experts will be happy to help!