
Table of Contents
Screen printing and direct-to-garment (DTG) printing are two of the most popular ways to print a design onto fabric. While there are many ways to design a t shirt, custom tote bags, or a piece of corporate swag item, these two approaches are the go-to methods for good reason. Let’s look into them in more detail.
Screen printing is the process of pulling a layer of ink over a specially crafted screen (usually with a mesh stencil) in order to produce a custom design. DTG printing applies ink directly onto the t-shirt using inkjet technology. There’s no silkscreen or paper applicator; it’s just like printing on paper, except on fabric.
It’s easy to see why these methods are the most popular. Not only do they produce truly stunning works of art, they can also both be customized to meet the diverse needs of a growing audience.
In order to know whether DTG vs screen printing is the right choice for your next order, it’s first important to understand the unique benefits and limitations that each has to offer. Here are the 4 most important factors to consider when deciding between screen printing and DTG.
Size of Order

The first thing you should consider when thinking about printing method is the size of your order. Are you a boutique brand looking to make limited edition prints? Or are you a lifestyle brand looking to cast a wide net?
DTG printing is a great option for low volume orders. The digital process is set up perfectly for small batches and one-offs as it avoids the heavy setup time and setup costs of screen printing. However, DTG is simply not cost effective for larger batches. Each shirt has to run through the printer one at a time and at the same cost, so you aren’t afforded any volume discounts.
Screen printing, on the other hand, is best for high volume orders. Remember, a special screen gets made for each design in screen printing. This gives the method a high upfront cost. But the cost per garment decreases exponentially as you increase the volume, so it becomes more and more economical the larger your order gets.
Large Order: Screen Print wins
Small Order: DTG wins
The Design: Complexity and Color

Next, consider your design. Do you have an awesome design idea where your logo is enveloped by a stunning sunset, with intricate oranges and reds and blues atop a mountainous horizon? Or do you want to make a simple, handsome tee with just your brand’s name and logo on it?
If you’re looking to print multiple colors within a complex design, DTG is likely the best option. Because a direct to garment t shirt printer is just as precise as a paper printer, it can print images in much greater detail than screen printing. This enables much more intricate, complex designs. On top of this, you’re not limited in color. The specialty printer can literally duplicate any image you come up with, so you have tons of flexibility to jazz up your design. That’s why many people looking for DTG printing Los Angeles opt for 100% cotton shirts to get the most accurate and vivid results.
Screen printing, on the other hand, is best for t shirt printing with simple designs and limited colors. With screen printing, only one color can be applied to the screen at a time. Because of this, each new color requires more time, another screen, and ultimately, more money from you. This isn’t to say screen printing colors aren’t vibrant. They are, perhaps even more so than DTG. Screen printing is just more hands-on, which makes highly stylized and colorful orders more difficult.
Simple designs with 1-2 colors: Screen Printing wins
Complex, colorful designs: DTG wins
Material

The next factor you’re going to need to consider is your preferred fabric. Are you a streetwear brand looking to make cotton custom hoodies? Or are you a high performance fitness outfit looking to make highly synthetic workout gear?
Screen printing is more forgiving and versatile than DTG, which makes it easy to use on a large variety of materials. Whether you want cotton, triblend, poly, or some highly specialized blend, screen printing has the versatility to adapt to you. That being said, make sure to choose screen printing inks that match well with the type of fabric you choose. For example, stick to water based and discharge inks when printing on lighter fabrics and blends so your garment remains soft and smooth. In addition, the versatility of screen printing allows for unique products like handbags, koozies, mugs and backpacks as the printer is able adjust to curved or uneven surfaces.
DTG, on the other hand, works best on 100% cotton. Anything less than 65% may not print completely true to color. Also, it’s important to remember that certain blends react differently to direct to garment printing than others. We’ve seen some surprisingly great results with some of our products, you’ll just need to do some sampling first.
Fabric Versatility: Screen Printing wins
Fabric Economy: DTG wins
The Look

This one’s totally subjective. The look of a screen printed item vs. a DTG item are just a bit different. For example, a screen print is traditionally a bit more vibrant, while DTG is more adept at nailing that vintage effect. This is because screen printing ink is applied thicker than DTG ink, which results in stronger colors. This is important to remember if you’re printing on a darker colored shirt and still want your design to pop. Remember: this is art, not science. Each printing method reacts to each design differently. Make sure to sample, sample, sample so you can hit the exact look you want.
Bottom line: Your call
Screen printing and DTG are both great options. Both methods are itching to bring your awesome design to life. We’ll even help you decide which works best for your brand. You win.
Alex Hales
Related Articles
Alex Hales
Alex Hales
Alex Hales
One Tree Planted
a tree with every online order placed.
1 Order Placed = 1 Tree Planted
In partnership with onetreeplanted.org
One Tree Planted
1 Order Placed = 1 Tree Planted
In partnership with onetreeplanted.org
Contact
- Mon - Fri | 9 AM – 5:30 PM PST
- quote@dtlaprint.com
- 4901 South Santa Fe Ave. Vernon, CA 90058
We Are Exclusively By Appointment Only.
Services
subcategories
Popular Products
Adidas Adjustable Washed Slouch Cap
Swannies - Delta Cap
Imperial - The Original Small Fit Performance Cap
Oakley - Pro-Formance Cap New
Sportsman - Five-Panel Rope Heritage Fit Cap
OTTO - 5 Panel Mid Profile Baseball Cap
OTTO - 6 Panel Low Profile Baseball Cap
Patagonia Mens Dirt Craft Long-Sleeve Jersey
Johnnie-O Mens Course T-Shirt
Johnnie-O Mens Dale 2.0 T-Shirt
Helly Hansen Mens Lifa T-Shirt
Helly Hansen Womens LIFA Crew Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Helly Hansen Mens LIFA Stripe Crew Long-Sleeve T-Shirt
Los Angeles Apparel - Kids 6.5 Oz L/S Grmnt Dye Tee
G Fore - Mens The Maverick Hybrid Stretch Jacket
Under Armour Mens Drive Midlayer Vest
Under Armour Mens Unstoppable Jacket
Under Armour Mens Drive Storm Wind Jacket
Zero Restriction Mens Fleece Hybrid Vest
Patagonia Mens Airshed Pro Pullover
Patagonia Womens Dirt Roamer Storm Jacket
G Fore - Mens Melange Ice Nylon Hoodie
Under Armour Mens Playoff 3.0 Golf Hoodie
Under Armour Mens Armour Fleece Hoodie
G Fore - Mens Brushed Back Tech Terry Hoodie
Patagonia Mens Micro D Hoodie
Adidas Golf Womens Golf Hoodie
Los Angeles Apparel - MW TERRY PO HOODY 9OZ
Patagonia Terravia Tote Pack
Patagonia Black Hole Tote 25L
Los Angeles Apparel - Large Nylon Shopping Bag
Johnnie-O Lined Beach Tote
Bogg Original Bogg Bag
Bogg Baby Bogg Bag
Bogg Bitty Bogg Bag
Everybody World - Adjustable Apron
Artisan Collection by Reprime - Annex Oxford Apron with Pocket
Artisan Collection by Reprime - Recycled Bib Apron
Artisan Collection by Reprime - Artisans Choice Canvas Apron
Artisan Collection by Reprime - Barley Stitch Recycled Bib Apron with Pockets
Artisan Collection by Reprime - Regenerate Recycled Bib Apron
Artisan Collection by Reprime - Espresso Bib Apron with Pockets
-
Screen Printing
High-quality prints, eco-friendly options
-
Embroidery
Expert stitching for lasting impressions
-
Finishing Services
Custom details for a polished look
-
DTG – direct to garment
Detailed designs, soft feel
-
Waterbased transfer printing
Natural feel, durable designs
-
Custom-dyed merchandise
Personalized colors for unique style
resources
get a quote!
Fill out this form to help us understand your needs and respond accurately.

4
47 Brand
A
Adidas
A
Allmade
A
American Apparel
A
ANETIK
A
Artisan Collection by Reprime
A
AS Colour
B
Badger
B
Bayside
B
Beimar
B
Bella + Canvas
B
Bogg
B
Boxercraft
C
Carhartt
C
Carmel Towel Company
C
Champion
C
Colortone
C
CORE365
C
Columbia
C
Comfort Colors
C
Cotton Heritage
D
DTLA Print
D
Dyenomite
E
Econscious
E
Everywhere Apparel
F
Flexfit
F
Fruit of the Loom
G
G Fore
G
Galvin Green
G
Gildan
H
Hanes
H
Helly Hansen
I
Independent Trading Co.
I
Imperial
I
Infinity Her
J
Jaanuu
J
Jerzees
J
Johnnie-O
K
Kishigo
K
Knack
L
Lane Seven
L
Legacy
L
Liberty Bags
L
Los Angeles Apparel
M
M&O
M
Marine Layer
N
New Era
N
Next Level
N
Nike
N
North Face
O
Oakley
O
OGIO
O
Onna
O
OTTO
O
Original Favorites
P
Patagonia
P
Peter Millar
P
Port & Company
P
Port Authority
Q
Q-Tees
Colors and Sizes
Thanks for subscribing!
You’ll be the first to know about exclusive offers, deals, and the latest news. Keep an eye on your inbox for your welcome email!
oops.. something went wrong!
Looks like we had a little trouble processing your subscription. Please try again or reach out to us if you need assistance
Contact Us
Call Us
Send Us A Message
Get a Quote
There is a 100 piece minimum to work with a sales rep.
For online orders
Screen Printing: 25 pieces minimum
Embroidery: 3 pieces minimum
Water-based Transfers: 1 pieces minimum
Direct-To-Garment: 1 pieces minimum
Patches: 25 pieces minimum
Office: (323) 261-8700
9 AM - 5:30 PM PST
Chat Available 9 AM - 2 AM PST
Back
Basic info
Your dedicated account rep is here to keep you updated and offer real time suggestions and project navigation every step of the way. Online ordering and live price quotes available here.
Have you ordered custom apparel & headwear before?
This will help us tailor the experience depending on your experience and know how to best support you.
Which services are you interested in?
Select one or as many of the services below you are interested in.
Do you already know what products you would like to order?
If you need help to identify the correct product for the correct demographic at the correct price point, select "I need help searching" and we will ask you a few additional questions to allow us to submit the best options for your project.
Tell us a little about your target demographic
We want to make sure your recipients will love and wear the merch you create time and time again. These questions will really help us identify the products that will best fit your audience.
Design Included in price
- Embroidery - Up to 4” x 4” or 8k stitches ( standard logo placements, +$1.50 per 1k stitches )
- Screen Print - Up to 15x18” 1-6 Colors, any larger custom quote, would need to see mock up, submit request here ( link to /contact form )
- Digital / DTG - Up to 14x16” ( +$5 for 15x18” )
- Patches - Up to 3.5” x 3.5” ( + $4.35 up to 5” x 5” )
- Waterbased Transfers - Up to 11x15” ( +$4.85 extra for any larger up to 13.5x17” )
Minimum Order Quantity
- Embroidery-3 pieces min.
- Screen Print-25 pieces min.
- Digital / DTG-1 piece min.
- Patches-25 pieces min.
- Waterbased Transfers-1 piece min.
Edit Quantity
Choose Colors & Sizes
Enter your quantity per size
Please make sure that you have reached minimum order quantity for preferred option. MOQ descriptions you can find
Finishing Services
Fold & Poly Bag
DTLA Print has an in house finishing department in its facility with trained individuals to professionally fold and bag your garments. Bags can be provided with customizable options, however we use a 1 mill flat poly bag which can be air sealed or taped shut.
$0.95/Shirt
+ 2 days
Size Sticker
Add a size sticker to the outside of each garment or poly bag to easily identify the size of a garment. Packages do come separated by size how ever many retailers and fulfillment centers do require these stickers.
$0.65/Shirt
+ 2 days
Custom UPC Label
We will print & apply a custom UPC label for any retailer, 3rd party logistics or fulfillment partner you work with.
$0.75/Shirt
+ 2 days
Hang Tag
Incorporating price tickets and hang tags securely with a pin, while offering a diverse array of sizes, colors, and finishes, significantly enhances the perceived quality and overall appeal of your garment. Additionally, not only elevate the garment’s perceived value but also provide essential product information, giving your customers a more informed and satisfying shopping experience.
$1.8/Shirt
+ 14 days
Woven Main Label
Create a fully custom woven main label. Includes the actual label itself and the sewing of the label. We will reach out to discuss the woven label material choices, shapes, and design. Please note this does add extra business days to the production time.
$2.75/Shirt
+ 14 days
Woven Hem Label
Create a fully custom woven hem label. Similar to the main label, this includes the actual label itself and the sewing of the label. We will reach out to discuss the woven label material choices, shapes, and design. Please note this does add extra business days to the production time. Hem labels go anywhere except the neck label of a garment.
$1.85/Shirt
+ 14 days
Design guidelines
Embroidery
Standard Size
4.5” W but larger can be requested
Max Size
Not common, but possible
File Formats
PSD, AI, PDF, EPS, PNG
Max Thread Colors
12
Specialty Threads
Metallic & 3D Puff
File Specs
Scaled to size or larger with transparent background
Screen Print
Standard Size
3” - 12” depending on location
Max Size
15x18” *special request
File Formats
PSD, AI, PDF, EPS, PNG
Max Colors
8
Specialty Inks
3M Reflective, Water-based, Plastisol, Puff, Etc...
File Specs
Scaled to size or larger with transparent background
Digital / DTG
Max Size
15x18”
File Formats
PNG preferred, ( also acceptable; PSD, AI, PDF, EPS, JPG )
Max Colors
Unlimited
File Specs
300 DPI scaled to size or larger with a transparent background
Patches
Max Size
10x13.5”
File Formats
PNG preferred, ( also acceptable; PSD, AI, PDF, EPS, JPG )
Max Colors
Unlimited
File Specs
300 DPI scaled to size or larger with a transparent background
Waterbased Transfers
Max Size
15x18”
File Formats
PNG preferred, ( also acceptable; PSD, AI, PDF, EPS, JPG )
Max Colors
Unlimited
File Specs
300 DPI scaled to size or larger with a transparent background
Upload Design
Upload Mockups
Don’t worry! Every order is triple checked even if it does not look perfect in this demo.
Do you want us to remove the background?
Our new AI tool will remove the background from the image 100% automatically and free.
Max File Size: 15 MB. For any files larger than 15MB please send via wetransfer.com or dropbox.com and share with sales@dtlaprint.com
Order option
We refer to “Blanks” as garments or products with out any decoration, logo, modification, etc... Essentially it is a product that has yet to be customized.
Blanks are typically ordered to test the fit, fabric, & feel but can also be purchased in bulk to customize on your own or be worn blank.
# of Colors
1 Colour
2 Colour
4 Colour
6 Colour
In screen printing, this is a reference to how many different colors are found in your design. We don’t charge for the base layer so only count the different colors you find in your design / logo.
More than 6
We recommend the Digital or Waterbased Transfer Print method for
Position
Tell us where on the garment you would like the specific design or logo and your account rep will create you a proper mock up to ensure that the design is printed as you intended.
Don’t worry if you don’t place it perfectly, we triple review each order to ensure satisfaction.
Front




Back




Left




Right




Neck Label
Decoration Methods Explained
Fabric
Minimums
Photo Quality
Set up Fees
Large Volume
Low Volume
Specialty Inks
Eco-Friendly Inks
Black Ink
Pantone Matching
Color Vibrancy
Wash
Consistency

Screen Printing

Water-based Transfer

Direct to Garment

Embroidery
Patches
Screen Printing
Water-based Transfer
Direct to Garment
Embroidery
Patches
View Fabric + Ink Chart
Any
Recommend 100% Cotton For Best
Any
Any
25-100 pieces depending on # of colors
1 piece
1 piece
3 pcs
25 piece
A-to C+ depending on image
A+
A+
N/A
N/A
Per Color
Free
Free
Included
Included
Price Lowers Significantly
Price Lowers
Price Remains after 1k units
Small drop in pricing as quantities increase
Small drop in pricing as quantities increase
Expensive Initial Set Up Costs
Easy/No Set Up Free Pricing
Easy/No Set Up Free Pricing
Higher per unit price at low volume
Higher per unit price at low volume
Yes
No
No
3D Puff & Metallic Threads
3D Puff & Metallic Threads
Yes
Yes
Yes
N/A
N/A
Most Rich & Dark Blank Prints
Jet Black/100% Black Available
Black Prints Max Out At 90% Vibrancy
N/A
N/A
Yes
Yes
No
N/A
N/A
Best
Amazing Results on Any Fabric
Best on 100% Cotton
Vibrant
Vibrant
A+
A+
A- / B+ Depending on Fabric Blend
A+
A+
A+
A+
A+
A+
A+
Screen Print - Ink Types
Eco friendly inks + screen prints are the true green alternative to screen printing. These inks replace traditional harmful inks and are 100% PVC and phthalate free.
Mostly used for athletic/activewear fabrics such as nylons, spandex, polyesters, rayons, lycra, that have a lot of stretch but can also be screen printed on other blends for different textures. These inks will make your prints stretch with the fabric and do not create cracks or creases when stretched. These should be printed on all sports jerseys, yoga apparel, athletic uniforms, and activewear.
We offer the 3M reflective ink prints as well as a standard reflective print that come in either a water-based (eco-friendly) or plastisol-based ink with the unique ability to reflect once a light source is aimed at the print. Popular uses for this new ink includes police departments, fire departments, E.M.S., and other safety professions. Has recently become extremely popular in the skate, surf, urban, and street apparel industries.
Well known for their soft feel and vibrant colors they produce when printed onto t-shirts and other textiles. When printed water based inks leave no hand feel behind so you can feel the fibers of the garment.
Inks that expands and rises when heated, giving a three dimensional look with a raised feel. Any Los Angeles t-shirt printer can buy inks and print them, but the real beauty and art of screen printing on t-shirts comes when you can mix inks correctly and accurately. Controlling how the puff inks actually puff is one example.
Silk screen t-shirt printing with plastisol is the oldest and most commonly used ink across the market to screen print your custom t shirts. The misconception how ever is that all inks are the same.
Specialty Order Off-Site
Available in both water based and discharge inks. The ink actually cracks in pieces the way you want it to so no two pieces will be alike. Great for vintage washed out looks while still brand new. This is custom silk screen printing at its best.
Specialty Order Off-Site
Perfect for creating custom silk screened T-shirts right here in Los Angeles. High Density inks can be matched to any color and rises in the drying process to create a 3D look. Inks can be raised to your desired height or width and can be printed with other high density inks of different sizes.
Specialty Order Off-Site
Burnout is a special screen printing process we use to removes the cotton fibers from a shirt, leaving only the polyester intact. It's perfect if you want to give your T-shirt designs that really cool see-through look.
Specialty Order Off-Site
Flocking screen printing can add a new dimension to your materials. Tiny particles of fiber are applied to a material with an adhesive, adding a suede-like or velvet texture to the surface. We color the fiber according to your designs, and you end up with products that stand out from the rest.
Water-based. w/ Base
Water-based. w/ Base
Oil Based. w/ Base
Oil Based. w/o Base
High Density
Puff
Stretch
Silicone
100% Cotton
90% Cotton
10% Poly
50% Cotton
50% Poly
Tri-Blends
100%
Polyester
95% Poly 5%
Spandex
What is Tax Exempt
Tax exemption is the reduction or removal of a liability to make a compulsory payment that would otherwise be imposed by a ruling power upon persons, property, income, or transactions. Tax-exempt status may provide complete relief from taxes, reduced rates, or tax on only a portion of items. Examples include exemption of charitable organizations from property taxes and income taxes, veterans, and certain cross-border or multi-jurisdictional scenarios.
*Only orders shipped with in California are charged tax unless a a valid CA resale form is provided.
How fast do you want us to produce your order?
Production time is separate from shipping
If you're in a hurry to receive your order, we offer an expedited service to fast-track the production process. While this option incurs additional charges, it ensures you get your product sooner. However, if time is not a pressing concern, you can stick to our standard production schedule at no extra cost. We believe in providing you with the flexibility to choose the timeline that best suits your needs.
Request a Callback
Please provide the best contact number for our team to reach out to you on, your account rep will reach out within 24-48 business hours.
A 100 piece minimum is needed for an account rep to handle your order.