Screen Printing vs DTF vs Sublimation: What Works Best for Your Fabric?

Choosing the right printing method can make a big difference in how your custom apparel looks, feels, and lasts. With so many options available, screen printing, DTF (Direct to Film), and sublimation are three of the most popular techniques—but each works best on specific fabrics and use cases.

This detailed guide breaks down how each printing method works, which fabrics they suit best, and how to choose the right option for your project.

screen printing and DTF


Why fabric type matters in garment printing

Not all fabrics react the same way to ink, heat, and pressure. The fabric you choose affects:

  • Print durability

  • Color brightness

  • Stretch and comfort

  • Wash resistance

  • Overall finish

Understanding fabric compatibility helps avoid cracking prints, fading colors, and wasted costs.

What is screen printing?

Screen printing is a traditional method where ink is pushed through a mesh screen onto fabric. Each color requires a separate screen.

Best fabrics for screen printing

  • Cotton

  • Cotton blends

  • Heavy fabrics

  • Canvas

  • Denim

Advantages of screen printing

  • Highly durable prints

  • Cost-effective for bulk orders

  • Vibrant colors on dark fabrics

  • Works well for simple, bold designs

Limitations

  • Not ideal for small quantities

  • Complex multi-color designs increase cost

  • Ink sits on top of the fabric, reducing breathability

What is DTF (Direct to Film) printing?

DTF printing involves printing a design onto a special film, applying adhesive powder, and then heat-pressing it onto the fabric.

Best fabrics for DTF printing

  • Cotton

  • Polyester

  • Blends

  • Lycra

  • Nylon

Advantages of DTF

  • Works on almost any fabric

  • Suitable for light and dark garments

  • High color accuracy

  • Ideal for small and medium runs

  • Flexible and stretch-friendly prints

Limitations

  • Slightly heavier feel than sublimation

  • Requires proper heat press settings

  • Not as breathable as dye-based printing

What is sublimation printing?

Sublimation uses heat to convert ink into gas, which bonds permanently with polyester fibers.

Best fabrics for sublimation

  • Polyester (100% recommended)

  • Light-colored fabrics only

  • Polymer-coated surfaces

Advantages of sublimation

  • Print becomes part of the fabric

  • No cracking or peeling

  • Extremely breathable

  • Long-lasting color durability

  • Ideal for sportswear

Limitations

  • Does not work on cotton

  • Limited to light-colored fabrics

  • Not suitable for dark garments

Screen printing vs DTF vs sublimation: Fabric comparison

Fabric TypeScreen PrintingDTFSublimation
CottonExcellentExcellentNot suitable
PolyesterGoodExcellentBest choice
Cotton-Poly BlendGoodExcellentLimited
Dark fabricsExcellentExcellentNot suitable
Light fabricsExcellentExcellentExcellent
Stretch fabricsLimitedVery goodExcellent
SportswearModerateGoodBest

Which method is best for different use cases?

Corporate uniforms

  • Screen printing for bulk cotton uniforms

  • DTF for mixed fabric uniforms

  • Sublimation for polyester performance wear

Sportswear

  • Sublimation for polyester jerseys

  • DTF for logos on mixed fabrics

Promotional T-shirts

  • Screen printing for large quantities

  • DTF for short runs and multiple designs

Fashion and custom designs

  • DTF for detailed artwork

  • Sublimation for all-over prints on polyester

Print durability and wash performance

  • Screen printing: Very durable, may crack over time

  • DTF: Good flexibility and wash resistance

  • Sublimation: Permanent, never peels or cracks

Proper washing improves lifespan for all methods.

Cost considerations

  • Screen printing is most cost-effective for bulk orders

  • DTF is economical for small batches and customization

  • Sublimation has higher fabric limitations but low long-term maintenance

Choosing the wrong method can increase costs unnecessarily.

How to choose the right printing method

Ask these questions:

  1. What fabric is being used?

  2. Light or dark garment?

  3. Quantity required?

  4. Design complexity?

  5. Intended usage (daily wear, sports, promotions)?

Matching answers to the right method ensures best results.

Final thoughts

There is no single “best” printing method—it depends on your fabric and purpose.

  • Choose screen printing for bulk cotton orders

  • Choose DTF for versatility across fabrics

  • Choose sublimation for polyester performance wear

Understanding how each method interacts with fabric helps you get prints that look better, last longer, and deliver better value. 

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