Decoration method advisor
Answer six questions about your item, quantity and logo, and see whether screen printing, embroidery or DTF fits best, with the reasons and what to send us.
Your decoration method
Recommended
Screen printing
Lowest cost per piece on larger runs of simple spot color logos. Each ink color needs its own screen, so setup grows with colors. Very durable on cotton and blends.
Alternative
DTF (direct to film)
Full color and fine detail with no screens, so it suits small runs, many colors, names and numbers. Works on almost any fabric, including polyester.
What to send
- Vector art (AI, EPS, SVG or PDF)
- Pantone colors, if you have them
- Where the logo goes and about how large
Production takes about 7 to 10 business days after proof approval. We send a free mockup within 24 hours.
Other methods are available on request; ask us.
A guide based on how each method works. We confirm the method with your mockup and quote.
Which decoration method fits each item
| Item | Simple logo (1 to 2 colors), 250+ pieces | Simple logo, under 50 pieces | Full color art |
|---|---|---|---|
| T-shirts | Screen printing | DTF | DTF |
| Hoodies and sweatshirts | Screen printing | DTF | DTF |
| Tote bags | Screen printing | DTF | DTF |
| Polos | Embroidery | Embroidery | DTF |
| Jackets and fleece | Embroidery | Embroidery | DTF |
| Caps | Embroidery | Embroidery | Embroidery |
| Performance wear | DTF | DTF | DTF |
Screen printing vs embroidery vs DTF
| Method | Best for | Colors and detail | Setup | Durability | Look |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Screen printing | Larger runs of tees, sweatshirts and totes | Simple spot color logos; each color adds a screen | One screen per ink color, so setup grows with colors | Very durable on cotton and blends | Flat, bright printed ink |
| Embroidery | Polos, outerwear, caps and heavier fabrics | Solid colors; fine detail is limited | One time digitizing of the logo | Lasts the longest | Stitched, textured and premium |
| DTF (direct to film) | Small runs, many colors, names and numbers | Full color and fine detail | No screens | Durable on almost any fabric, including polyester | Smooth printed film |
For a longer comparison, read the decoration methods guide.
Logo tips for each method
Screen printing
- Keep spot colors few; each color adds a screen and setup cost.
- Use solid colors rather than gradients or photos.
- Send Pantone colors so ink matches across runs.
Embroidery
- Keep text at least about 1/4 inch tall.
- Simplify gradients into solid color areas.
- Thin lines and very small details are thickened or removed for stitching.
DTF (direct to film)
- Any number of colors, gradients and photos work.
- Avoid very large solid areas on light fabrics, which feel heavier to wear.
- Fine detail prints cleanly, including small text.
Frequently asked questions
- Is embroidery or screen printing better for company shirts?
- Screen printing costs the least per piece on larger runs of T-shirts with simple logos. Embroidery gives a stitched, premium look that lasts the longest and suits polos, outerwear and caps.
- What is DTF printing?
- DTF (direct to film) prints your design on a film that is heat pressed onto the garment. It handles full color and fine detail with no screens, so it suits small runs, many colors, names and numbers, and almost any fabric, including polyester.
- Can you embroider a full color logo?
- Gradients and photos cannot be stitched; we simplify the logo or use DTF.
- What is the minimum text size for embroidery?
- About 1/4 inch tall.
- Which method is best for polyester performance shirts?
- DTF in most cases.
- How do you add individual names?
- DTF names and numbers, or embroidered names on polos and outerwear.