Screen Printing vs. DTG: Which Is Right for Your Brand?
A detailed comparison of production methods, minimums, costs, and quality outcomes.
Choosing the right printing method for your custom apparel can make or break your product margins and customer satisfaction.
Screen Printing
**Best for:** Large quantities, simple designs, solid colors
- Setup cost: Higher (screen creation per color)
- Per-unit cost: Lower at scale
- Color limit: Each color requires a separate screen
- Durability: Excellent — ink bonds with fabric fibers
- Minimum: Typically 50+ pieces per design
DTG (Direct-to-Garment)
**Best for:** Small quantities, full-color designs, detailed artwork
- Setup cost: Minimal (digital file only)
- Per-unit cost: Higher than screen printing at scale
- Color limit: Unlimited — prints like a desktop printer
- Durability: Good, but less vibrant on dark garments
- Minimum: 1 piece — no setup required
Which One Should You Choose?
| Factor | Screen Printing | DTG |
|--------|---------------|-----|
| Quantity | 50+ units | 1-50 units |
| Colors per design | 1-6 | Unlimited |
| Cost per piece (200 units) | ~$3-5 | ~$6-10 |
| Best for | Uniforms, merch, basics | Art prints, photos, small runs |
At BOAZ, we offer both methods. Our production team will recommend the best approach for your specific project.
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