Behind the Scenes of Graphic Tee Printing Methods

A Tale of Two Techniques: DTG vs. Screen Printing

Every graphic t-shirt tells a story, and the artistry of printing techniques adds depth and vibrancy to these narratives. Direct-to-Garment (DTG) and screen printing are the two leading methods that bring these stories to life. At Foxtrot Uniform, we've chosen to print all of our designs using DTG. To understand why we've made this decision, let's dive deeper into how both of these techniques give life to your favourite designs:

  • Screen Printing: A Time-Honoured Tradition

    Screen printing, a classic method with roots dating back to ancient China, involves the use of a stencil or screen to transfer ink onto fabric. Each colour in the design requires its own screen, which is made by applying a photosensitive emulsion to a mesh surface and exposing it to light. This process leaves the desired design open on the screen, while the rest of the mesh remains blocked. Ink is then pressed through the open areas of the screen with a squeegee, transferring the design onto the fabric. Screen printing excels at producing bold, vibrant colours and is well-suited for simpler designs with limited colour palettes. However, this method faces limitations when it comes to reproducing intricate details or a wide range of colours, as each additional colour adds complexity and cost to the process.

  • DTG Printing: A Modern Marvel

    Direct-to-Garment (DTG) printing is a state-of-the-art innovation that employs advanced inkjet technology to print designs directly onto fabric. In this process, specialized printers use water-based inks to recreate intricate and multi-coloured designs with impressive accuracy and detail. The DTG printer's printhead moves across the fabric, laying down ink droplets that are then absorbed into the fibres. This method allows for a wide colour gamut and high-resolution prints, making it an ideal choice for complex designs or those featuring photographic elements. In addition, DTG printing offers a soft, smooth feel on the fabric, as the ink bonds with the fibres without creating a thick layer on the surface.

Investing in Excellence

For large-scale orders, screen printing often emerges as a cheaper option. For this reason many large manufactures choose screen printing as a means of cutting costs. DTG printing on the other hand guarantees unparalleled print quality that we firmly believe is worth the additional investment. By choosing DTG, we're committed to providing our customers with a product that exceeds expectations in design and execution.

Longevity and Durability

Both DTG and screen printing have the potential to create long-lasting prints when executed correctly. However, DTG printing has a slight edge in terms of durability, as the water-based inks used in this method bond with the fabric's fibers, creating prints that resist fading and cracking. In contrast, screen-printed designs may be more susceptible to cracking and peeling over time, as the ink primarily rests on the fabric's surface.

Embracing Eco-Friendly Practices

Environmental responsibility is a core value at Foxtrot Uniform, and we appreciate that both DTG and screen printing have made efforts to reduce their ecological impact. Still, DTG printing emerges as the greener choice. By utilizing eco-friendly, water-based inks and generating less waste due to the absence of screens and surplus ink, DTG printing demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. Traditional screen printing, on the other hand, often relies on plastisol inks, which contain chemicals that can be less environmentally friendly.

At Foxtrot Uniform, we believe in providing products that embody quality, durability, and environmental consciousness. By embracing DTG printing, we're able to offer our customers graphic tees that boast vivid colors, intricate details, and a leave a lasting impression. Explore our collection today and experience the unparalleled craftsmanship of our Direct-to-Garment printed tees.