DTF vs Screen Printing: Which Is Better for Bulk Orders?

Two Leading Methods Compared

For businesses in Kingston, Surbiton and South West London, choosing between DTF and screen printing impacts cost, durability and brand perception.

Screen Printing

• Best for large volume runs (100+ units)
• Lower cost per unit at scale
• Excellent colour vibrancy and durability
• Setup costs make small runs expensive

DTF (Direct-to-Film) Printing

• Best for smaller to medium runs
• No setup costs — print-on-demand capability
• Supports full-colour, photo-quality designs
• Slightly higher per-unit cost for very large runs

Which Should You Choose?

The correct decision depends on garment type, logo complexity, and order quantity. A balanced approach often combines different techniques depending on the use case.