Quick answer: For small orders, DTG (direct-to-garment) is usually the better choice. It needs no screens or per-color setup, handles full-color and photo-style designs, and can print a single shirt. Screen printing is usually better for large bulk orders of simple designs with only a few colors, where the setup cost is spread across many shirts. At Digital Prints On T-Shirts, we offer DTG, DTF and sublimation printing with no minimum order.
What is screen printing?
Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh screen onto the garment. Each color in the design needs its own screen, which has to be prepared, aligned and cleaned. Once the screens are ready, printing many identical shirts is fast, which is why screen printing is common for large runs of team shirts, uniforms and event merchandise.
What is DTG printing?
DTG prints your design directly onto the shirt with water-based ink that soaks into the fibers, like an inkjet printer for fabric. There are no screens, so a one-color logo and a full-color photo are set up the same way. Learn more in our guide What Is DTG Printing?
DTG vs screen printing at a glance
| Feature | DTG | Screen printing |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Small orders, photos, detailed multi-color art | Large orders of simple designs |
| Setup | Digital file, no screens | One screen per color |
| Minimum order | None at our shop | Often required by print shops |
| Colors and detail | Full color, gradients, photo-realistic | Best with limited colors |
| Feel | Very soft, ink absorbs into the fabric | Ink sits on top of the fabric |
| Cost per shirt | Stays steady as quantity grows | Drops as quantity grows |
| Fabric | 100% cotton or high-cotton blends | Works on many fabrics |
Why DTG is better for small orders
- No setup per color: you do not pay to prepare screens for a design you only need a few times.
- One shirt is possible: there is no need to order a dozen to make it worthwhile.
- Different designs in one order: each shirt is printed from a digital file, so you can mix artwork, sizes and colors.
- Photo-realistic detail: gradients and many colors print without extra cost per color.
- Easy to test: order a sample first, then scale up once you are happy.
When screen printing makes more sense
Screen printing can be the better value when you need a large quantity of the same design, especially a simple logo with one to three colors. Because the setup cost is spread across many shirts, the price per piece drops as the order grows. If your order is small, or your design has many colors or photographic detail, digital printing is usually the better fit.
What if my fabric is not cotton?
DTG works best on cotton. For polyester, blends or mixed fabrics, DTF printing is usually the best option, and for light polyester jerseys with all-over designs, sublimation gives the best result. See our fabric compatibility guide for details.
Which method should you choose?
- 1 to a few shirts, any design: DTG, DTF or sublimation, depending on fabric.
- Photo or many-color artwork on cotton: DTG.
- Polyester or blends: DTF.
- Large bulk order of a simple one- to three-color logo: screen printing may offer the lowest price per shirt.
Not sure? Tell us your quantity, design and garment, and we will recommend the best method. You can also read our full comparison DTG vs DTF Printing and our guide on ordering custom T-shirts with no minimums.
How do I care for my printed shirt?
Turn the shirt inside out, wash it in cold water on a delicate cycle, air-dry it away from direct sunlight and avoid ironing directly over the printed area.
Order your custom shirt at Digital Prints On T-Shirts
Frequently asked questions
Is DTG better than screen printing?
It depends on your order. DTG is better for small orders, full-color designs and photos. Screen printing is usually more cost-effective for large quantities of simple, few-color designs.
Is DTG cheaper than screen printing for small orders?
Usually yes, because DTG has no screen or per-color setup. Screen printing setup costs are spread across the whole order, so they weigh more heavily on small quantities.
Which lasts longer, DTG or screen printing?
Both can last through many washes when cared for properly. Washing inside out in cold water and air-drying helps keep either type of print looking its best.
Can I order just one shirt with DTG?
Yes. At Digital Prints On T-Shirts there are no minimums, so you can order a single shirt or a larger batch.
Does screen printing have a minimum order?
Many screen print shops require a minimum quantity because of the setup needed for each color. Digital methods like DTG, DTF and sublimation do not need this setup.
