When it comes to custom apparel, not all print methods are created equal. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to outfit your team, launching your own merch brand, or creating uniforms for an event, the type of decoration method you choose can make or break your project.
At Level Up Print, we offer three of the industry’s most popular techniques:
Screen Printing, Embroidery, and DTF (Direct-to-Film)—each with its strengths, quirks, and ideal use cases.
Let’s break them down so you can make the smartest choice for your next order.
What it is:
Screen printing uses a mesh screen and ink to transfer designs onto garments. Each color in your design gets its own screen, and ink is pushed through the screen layer by layer.
Best for:
Pros:
✔ Crisp, long-lasting prints
✔ Super cost-effective for bulk orders
✔ Vibrant ink colors on light and dark fabric
Cons:
✘ Expensive for small runs
✘ Not ideal for full-color or photo-realistic designs
✘ Each color adds setup time and cost
Ideal Use Case:
Your company is hosting a big event, and you need 100 matching shirts with a bold 2-color logo. Screen printing is your move.
What it is:
Embroidery uses thread stitched directly into the fabric, creating a textured, elevated finish that feels high-end and durable.
Best for:
Pros:
✔ Extremely professional appearance
✔ Long-lasting and durable
✔ Great for small, clean logos
Cons:
✘ Not ideal for detailed or colorful designs
✘ Can be costly for large or complex logos
✘ Higher price per piece + setup fees
✘ Minimums usually required
Ideal Use Case:
You’re outfitting your team with branded polos or hats that need to last. Embroidery will give you that sharp, polished look.
What it is:
DTF printing involves printing your design onto a special film using vibrant inks. The design is then powdered, cured, and heat-pressed onto your garment. It’s fast, flexible, and works on almost any fabric.
Best for:
Pros:
✔ Unlimited colors—perfect for gradients and photos
✔ No minimums—great for small businesses
✔ Sharp, vibrant prints that last
✔ Works on more fabrics than screen printing
Cons:
✘ Slightly heavier feel than screen printing
✘ Not as textured or “luxury” as embroidery
✘ Not ideal for large solid blocks of color
Ideal Use Case:
You’re launching a limited-edition merch tee with a full-color design and want just 10 pieces to test. DTF gives you premium results without the screen setup costs.
| Feature | Screen Printing | Embroidery | DTF Printing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost-Effective for | Bulk Orders (25+) | Small Logos & Uniforms | Small to Medium Orders |
| Best For | Cotton tees, hoodies | Hats, polos, jackets | Full-color, mixed fabrics |
| Setup Time | Medium | High | Low |
| Detail Level | Medium (limited colors) | Low (not for fine detail) | High (photo-quality) |
| Durability | High | Very High | High |
Here’s a rule of thumb:
Still not sure? That’s what we’re here for.
No matter your project size, budget, or aesthetic, there’s a print method that fits your vision. Choosing the right one can save you money, enhance your brand, and ensure your gear actually gets worn (not tossed in a drawer).
At Level Up Print, we guide you through the process from start to finish—whether you’re printing 10 shirts or outfitting an entire team. Let’s create something that looks good, feels great, and represents your brand the right way.
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