Embroidery and Printing
Workwear Embroidery and Logo Embroidery Explained
What happens between uploading a logo and receiving finished embroidered workwear.
Read guide →IMAGE REQUIRED
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Compare DTF printing, DTG printing and screen printing by garment, design, quantity, finish and setup before placing an order.
DTF printing
Direct to film printing produces the artwork on a film before it is applied to the garment with heat and pressure. DTF printing can reproduce detailed, multi-colour logos and works on many compatible fabrics. It is often suitable for printed workwear, smaller orders, changing names and designs with gradients.
The print sits on the fabric, so large solid areas can feel different from the garment around them. Correct temperature, pressure, transfer quality and garment compatibility are essential.
DTG printing
Direct to garment printing applies ink directly to the garment. DTG printing is strong for detailed, full-colour images on suitable cotton-rich products. The ink interacts with the fabric, which can create a softer result than a solid transfer.
It is not the automatic choice for every workwear fabric. Polyester blends, technical treatments and some colours may require another process. The garment should be confirmed before the design is prepared around DTG.
Screen printing
Screen printing uses a prepared screen to apply each colour. It is efficient for suitable designs at volume and is widely used for staff T shirts, event clothing and repeated promotional orders. Bold artwork with a controlled number of colours is an ideal starting point.
Because each colour requires setup, screen printing is normally less economical for very small quantities. The Branded UK minimum is generally 25 items for this method.
Which method should you choose
Choose DTF for detailed colour, flexible garment use and smaller runs. Choose DTG for detailed artwork on compatible cotton-rich garments where a direct print is appropriate. Choose screen printing for repeated designs at quantities that justify setup.
These are starting points rather than fixed rules. Artwork size, fabric, product colour, order volume and the expected finish must be considered together.
Combining methods
One order can use more than one method. A polo or jacket may carry a small embroidered chest logo while T shirts use screen printing and hi vis garments use DTF on the back. Consistent branding does not require an identical process on every product.
Send the full garment list and artwork together. This allows the production team to choose the correct process for every position while keeping colour and scale controlled.