If you’re ordering custom printed apparel, you’ve probably come across two main options: DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing and traditional screen printing. Both have their place, but in 2025, one clearly dominates for most businesses, teams, and events. Let’s break it down.

What is DTF Printing?

DTF (Direct-to-Film) is a modern printing technique where a design is printed onto a special film, then heat-transferred onto the fabric. The result is a full-colour, highly detailed print that bonds strongly to the garment. It works on cotton, polyester, blends, dark and light fabrics alike.

What is Screen Printing?

Screen printing is one of the oldest and most established methods. A stencil (screen) is created for each colour in the design, and ink is pushed through the screen onto the fabric. It’s excellent for high-volume runs of simple designs with limited colours, but setup costs make it expensive for small batches.

  • Minimum order: DTF = 1 piece | Screen = usually 50+ pieces
  • Colour complexity: DTF = unlimited | Screen = each colour costs extra
  • Setup cost: DTF = none | Screen = high (screens per colour)
  • Best for small orders: DTF wins
  • Best for 500+ identical items: Screen printing can be cheaper
  • Fabric compatibility: DTF = virtually any | Screen = mostly light fabrics
  • Turnaround time: DTF = faster | Screen = slower (setup time)
  • Durability: Both excellent when done correctly

DTF vs Screen Printing – Head to Head

Here’s how the two methods compare across the most important factors for businesses and individuals ordering custom apparel:

Which Should You Choose?

For most customers in 2025 – businesses, sports teams, event organisers, restaurants – DTF is the smarter choice. It’s cost-effective for small runs, handles detailed multicolour artwork effortlessly, and the quality is outstanding.

Screen printing still makes sense if you need 500+ identical items with a simple 1–2 colour logo and have time for a longer setup process.

At Twenty Five West in Wrocław, we use DTF printing to give our customers the best combination of quality, flexibility, and price – whether you need 1 piece or 500.

► Want to know which method is right for your project? Contact Twenty Five West at twentyfivewest.com for a free consultation.