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Main Types of Custom T-Shirt Printing In Devon

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There are several different methods of custom T-shirt printing we create at our Devon workshop, each with its own strengths depending on your design, budget, fabric choice, and how many shirts you need. Here’s a clear breakdown: Find out how we create printed t shirts in Cornwall for you.

 Main Types of Custom T-Shirt Printing Devon

1. Screen Printing (Silk Screen)

  • How it works: Ink is pushed through a mesh stencil (screen) onto the shirt.

  • Best for:

    • Bold, vibrant designs.

    • Bulk orders (economical for 20+ shirts).

  • Pros:

    • Long-lasting, high-quality prints.

    • Excellent for solid colors.

  • Cons:

    • Expensive setup for small runs.

    • Not ideal for very detailed or photographic images.

2. Direct-to-Garment (DTG) Printing

  • How it works: Works like an inkjet printer, printing directly onto the fabric.

  • Best for:

    • Small orders (even one-off shirts).

    • Detailed, colorful, or photo-like designs.

  • Pros:

    • Unlimited colors, gradients, and fine detail.

    • No setup fees.

  • Cons:

    • Slower for large runs.

    • Works best on 100% cotton.

3. Vinyl Heat Transfer

  • How it works: Design is cut from vinyl sheets and heat-pressed onto the shirt.

  • Best for:

    • Names, numbers, or simple logos (like sports kits).

    • Small quantities.

  • Pros:

    • Crisp, clean finish.

    • Durable and flexible.

  • Cons:

    • Not ideal for complex or multicolor designs.

    • Heavier feel on fabric.

4. Sublimation Printing

  • How it works: Heat turns special dye ink into gas, which bonds into polyester fabric fibers.

  • Best for:

    • All-over prints.

    • Light-colored polyester shirts.

  • Pros:

    • Super vibrant, permanent colors.

    • Won’t crack or peel (ink becomes part of the fabric).

  • Cons:

    • Only works on polyester (not cotton).

    • Limited to light shirts (white or light grey).

5. Embroidery (Stitched Designs)

  • How it works: Threads are stitched directly into the fabric.

  • Best for:

    • Logos on workwear or uniforms.

  • Pros:

    • Very durable, professional look.

  • Cons:

    • Not good for large or detailed graphics.

    • More expensive per item.

6. Heat Transfer Printing (Digital Transfers)

  • How it works: Design is printed on special paper and heat-pressed onto the fabric.

  • Best for:

    • Small runs with detailed, full-color designs.

  • Pros:

    • Can handle complex images/photos.

    • Cheaper setup than screen printing.

  • Cons:

    • Less durable (can crack/peel with washing).

    • Slightly heavier feel.

✨ Quick Recommendation:

  • Bulk orders with solid colors → Screen Printing

  • One-off shirts or detailed artwork → DTG

  • Sports kits/names → Vinyl Transfer

  • Bright, polyester shirts → Sublimation

  • Professional uniforms → Embroidery

Would you like me to make a comparison chart (with price, durability, best use case) so you can quickly decide which printing type fits your project?

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