Deciding to make your own custom t-shirts involves a lot of different decisions. First you have to select the t-shirt. Then, there is the need to design, create or choose the logo, image, or message, and then you also have to choose the t shirt printing method.
Depending on the type of design you are considering and the color and type of shirt you are using, different t shirt printing options may make a better choice than others. There will also be slight cost differences between the options, which may or may not be a consideration based on the size of your order and your budget.
Screen Printing
Screen printing is the most traditional form of t shirt printing and one that uses different types of inks which do not absorb into the fabric of the shirt. This means the logo, design, or text will be slightly raised off of the shirt.
This form of t shirt printing is typically only done on larger orders. It is more costly as specific forms have to be developed to match your graphic and text. It is also only appropriate for a limited number of colors, ideally for one or two colors in the design.
Direct to Garment Printing
Direct to garment t shirt printing or DTG uses technology and a computerized system to print from a printer onto the t shirt fabric. The ink is thinner and will be absorbed by the fabric, creating a flat and even surface that is durable and long lasting. It is also possible to match any color. Commercial printers can reproduce 16 million different colors, shades, and tones.
Unlike screen printing, the ink will not peel, flake, or crack even after years of use and laundering. However, it is only possible on a white or light background color. This Light DTG printing cannot use white ink as part of the design colors.
The other option with this DTG t shirt printing on dark colors is first to apply a layer of white underneath the logo on a dark color shirt. This Dark DTG printing is more expensive, but it does provide the option to use a white ink and to print true colors on dark shirts and fabrics.
Depending on the specific needs for the shirts, all options for t shirt printing may be appropriate for light colored shirts. Cost, logo design, and color options needed in the printing process are often the deciding factor for most orders.
At One Hour Tees, we can satisfy all your t shirt printing needs. To learn more about your choices or to place an order, see us at www.onehourtees.com.
