DTF vs Screen Printing vs Sublimation for T-Shirts

Body copy

Choosing the right T-shirt printing method can mean the difference between a shirt that looks great for years and one that fades after three washes. The right method depends on your design, quantity and budget.

Screen printing

Screen printing pushes ink through mesh screens onto the fabric. Each colour requires a separate screen, making it the cheapest method for bulk orders with simple designs.

Cost: KES 300 – 800 per shirt (bulk) Minimum order: 20+ units Best for: Bulk orders, simple designs (1–4 colours), corporate uniforms, event T-shirts Durability: Excellent — ink soaks into the fabric and lasts 50+ washes

Pros: Cheapest for bulk, durable, vibrant colours, works on any fabric Cons: Expensive for small runs, limited colours, setup cost per colour

DTF (Direct to Film)

DTF prints the design onto a special film which is then heat-pressed onto the garment. It handles full-colour, detailed designs and is economical for small runs.

Cost: KES 400 – 1,200 per shirt Minimum order: 1 unit Best for: Small runs, full-colour designs, photographic images, complex artwork Durability: Good — lasts 30–50 washes with proper care

Pros: No minimum order, full colour, detailed designs, works on any fabric Cons: Slightly heavier feel than screen printing, less durable than screen printing

Sublimation

Sublimation infuses ink into polyester fabric using heat. The ink becomes part of the fabric, producing vibrant, all-over prints that never crack or peel.

Cost: KES 500 – 1,500 per shirt Minimum order: 10+ units Best for: All-over prints, polyester garments, sportswear, vibrant designs Durability: Excellent — print lasts the life of the garment

Pros: Never cracks or peels, all-over printing, vibrant colours, no feel of print Cons: Only works on polyester, limited to light colours, white fabric required

Which should you choose?

Frequently asked questions

Which is the cheapest T-shirt printing method? Screen printing is the cheapest for bulk orders (20+ units). DTF is cheapest for small runs.

Which method is most durable? Screen printing and sublimation are the most durable. DTF is good but less durable than both.

Can DTF print on any colour T-shirt? Yes, DTF works on any colour. Screen printing works best on light colours. Sublimation only works on white or light polyester.

How long does T-shirt printing take? Screen printing takes 2–3 working days for bulk orders. DTF and sublimation take 2–3 working days. Rush orders are available at a premium.

Which method is best for a photographic design? DTF or sublimation. Screen printing cannot reproduce photographic detail.

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