Direct to Film Printing vs Screen Printing

The growing need for offline promotion has increased the demand for online custom printing services. There are various promotional products, like apparel, banners, signs, and other promotional materials, which are used to promote the brand. Various techniques are used for printing the promotional materials. Two of the most used techniques are direct to film transfer printing and screen printing. Here is a detailed know-how of these methods.

Direct to Film Printing (DTF)

In this method, the design is printed on a special film with a use of direct to film transfers printer. By using heat, this film is transferred to the apparel, fabrics, or other surfaces. This process is generally considered easy, as you do not have to pre-treat the apparel or other fabric as was done in traditional methods. In direct to film printing, a high-quality ink is used on the film, which makes the color of the fabric or material long-lasting. The ink is then covered with an adhesive powder. It is then heat-pressed on the fabric. It works great with various fabric materials like polyester, cotton, and a blend of both.

Advantages of Using Direct to Film Printing

By availing the good online custom printing services for direct to film printing, you can have various advantages, such as:

• You will get a high-quality printed product with fine images and designs

• It works well on light and dark fabrics.

• In this technique, the designs on fabric do not peel off, fade, or crack.

• It is a good option for small-scale companies or for small orders.

  
  

Screen Printing or Silkscreen Printing

It is one of the traditional methods of printing a fabric or material. Various online custom printing services are still working on this tried and tested method. In this process, a fabric or material is placed, and ink is pushed on it through a screen or stencil. A separate screen is required for each color. For printing multi-color fabric, more labor is required.

It is used in banners, posters, and other promotional items. For companies with large orders, screen printing is recommended as it saves time to reproduce the same design.

Advantages of Using Screen Printing 

• It is best for durable designs that can last even after multiple washings.

• Cost-effective for large-scale industries or companies with big orders.

• You can print different prints with vibrant colors on light fabric.

• A wide range of inks can be used in it, like glowing, metallic, and puff.

  
  

Difference between Direct to Film Printing vs Screen Printing

Although both printing techniques have their own significance, it depends on the need and requirement of the customer. Here are some of the differences in these techniques, which can help you select one as per your preferences and budget. 

Time Involved

In DTF, a direct to film transfers printer is used, which reduces the time required for the setup. This makes it the best option for quick and custom orders. Whereas, in screen printing, a separate screen for each color is required to print the ink, which takes more time for setup. The companies that want to order in bulk can use this technique.

Complexity in Designing

DTF is recommended for printing detailed graphics, designs, and gradients. On the other hand, screen printing is best for simple designs. It will require more screens if multi-color is used.

Compatibility with Material

DTF can be used for printing on fabrics like cotton, polyester, and specialty surfaces. Whereas screen printing is mainly used for fabrics or a few materials.

Durability

In direct to film printing, a design may not fade or crack, but its durability depends on the type of adhesive powder of heating technique used. Screen Printing is a long-lasting method, which makes it a perfect option for outdoor printing materials.

Affordability

DTF is affordable for small orders and custom prints. Whereas, screen printing is better for companies with large orders with a single design.

Conclusion

By picking the right online custom printing services, you can avail the benefits of both direct to film printing and screen printing techniques. If you are also looking for printing promotional materials, you can check out Level Up Print, which provides a range of customized products at affordable prices.